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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Federal Way, WA

E&I Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

... operator and equipment safety in mind. * Manage budget, scope, schedule and proactively report ... control systems. * Understanding of Low Voltage Power Distribution System design. Working ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$111K - $144K/yr

Provide technical support to refinery operating and maintenance personnel. * Perform and/or manage ... distributed control systems (DCSs). * Perform process optimization studies. * Participate in ...

OT Analyst/Consultant (Remote)

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$70K - $205K/yr

Minimum 2 years of experience working with industrial technologies and environments, including Industrial Control Systems (ICS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems (DCS ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$91K - $121K/yr

... and distribution engineering teams. The role focuses on communication and control interfaces among substations, transmission systems, utilities, and control centers, including SCADA systems ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$111K - $143K/yr

... distributed control systems (DCSs). * Perform process optimization studies. * Participate in ... total operating throughput capacity of over 218 Mbpd. Par Pacific owns and operates one of the ...

Sr. Process Engineer

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$133K - $199K/yr

Provide technical support to refinery operating and maintenance personnel. * Perform and/or manage ... distributed control systems (DCSs). * Perform process optimization studies. * Participate in ...

E&I Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

... operator and equipment safety in mind. * Manage budget, scope, schedule and proactively report ... control systems. * Understanding of Low Voltage Power Distribution System design. Working ...

E&I Engineer

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

... operator and equipment safety in mind. * Manage budget, scope, schedule and proactively report ... control systems. * Understanding of Low Voltage Power Distribution System design. Working ...

Showing results 21-40

Distributed Control System Operator information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do distributed control system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Federal Way, WA is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $31.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a distributed control system operator?

A Distributed Control System (DCS) Operator is a professional responsible for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing industrial processes using a distributed control system. They ensure that manufacturing plants or industrial facilities run efficiently, safely, and within set parameters by managing process variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow. DCS Operators respond to alarms, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with other team members to maintain smooth operations. Their role is crucial in industries like oil and gas, power generation, chemical manufacturing, and water treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a distributed control system operator?

To thrive as a Distributed Control System (DCS) Operator, you need a solid understanding of process control, instrumentation, and industrial automation, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with DCS platforms such as Honeywell, Siemens, or Emerson, as well as relevant safety certifications and SCADA systems, is usually required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators manage complex systems and respond quickly to issues. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations in highly regulated industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by distributed control system operators, and how can they be managed?

Distributed Control System Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to system alarms, managing equipment malfunctions, and ensuring continuous, safe plant operations. Rapid decision-making and effective communication with maintenance and engineering teams are crucial to minimize downtime and safety risks. Staying updated with system upgrades and participating in regular training also help operators manage new technologies and evolving procedures. Collaboration and strong attention to detail are key to successfully overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Distributed Control System Operator vs Control Room Operator?

AspectDistributed Control System OperatorControl Room Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications in control systems, process operationsBasic operational training, sometimes technical certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, energy plantsControl rooms, monitoring stations across various industries
Industry UsagePower plants, oil & gas, manufacturingUtilities, transportation, manufacturing

The Distributed Control System Operator focuses on managing and monitoring complex control systems within industrial environments, often requiring technical certifications. Control Room Operators oversee plant operations from control rooms, ensuring safety and efficiency. While both roles involve monitoring equipment, the DCS Operator specializes in control system management, whereas the Control Room Operator handles overall plant operations.

What are popular job titles related to Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA?

For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,227 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

E&I Engineer

Bellevue, WA โ€ข On-site

ALTEN Technology USA
Engineering Professional Servicesย โ€ขย 10K+ employees

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

As an E&I Engineer you will be responsible for;

  • Read, interpret and comment on engineering documents, including P&IDs, GAs, process design guidelines, return of experience, and engineering best practices guides.
  • Interpret, comment and follow contract and customer specifications.
  • Perform required calculations and select the appropriate instrumentation for water treatment facilities as well as all supporting documentation (instrument lists, termination drawings, instrument datasheets, etc.) with operator and equipment safety in mind.
  • Manage budget, scope, schedule and proactively report risks and opportunities to project teams.
  • Select equipment and design complex low voltage industrial control systems in compliance with UL and CEC for water treatment facilities, some with Class 1 Div 2 areas, (single line diagrams/load lists, I/O lists, panel design and schematics, and network architectures) with operator and equipment safety in mind with high quality.
  • Support project bids, provide technical guidance to meet customer needsย 
  • Ability to collaborate in and lead cross-functional project team discussions and client meetings.
  • Proven ability to develop and follow procedures and standards, while extrapolating new concepts from established standards.
  • Knowledge of and/or demonstrated ability to learn equipment and processes related to Veolia WTS products and system

Qualifications;

  • Experience with design of complex low voltage industrial control systems in compliance with UL and CEC
  • Experience designing control panels and selecting equipment for use in Class 1 Div 2 areas
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills (including coordinating, reporting, documentation, and presentations)ย 
  • Bachelor of Electrical Engineering or equivalent degree.
  • Experienced with complex industrial control system design.
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant or related experience.
  • Valid passport and driver's license.

Preferred:

  • Understanding of hydraulics and fundamentals of fluid mechanics.
  • Understanding of basic water chemistry.
  • Strong focus on customer relationships (external/internal). Understands balance between customer and SUEZ teams.
  • Experience with control systems, Programmable Logic Controllers, HMI and SCADA design and programming.
  • Basic technical knowledge in the field of industrial control systems.
  • Understanding of Low Voltage Power Distribution System design.

Working Conditions:ย 

Occasional travel (15%) for client meetings, customer site visits and/or visits to other offices

Salary Range: $90k-$140kย 

The actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experienceย