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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Leland, NC

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC

$77K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating from 6 offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, we provide Fortune 500 ... control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating from 6 offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, we provide Fortune 500 ... control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating from 6 offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, we provide Fortune 500 ... control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating from 6 offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, we provide Fortune 500 ... control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong background in electrical control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O * Operational skills to execute test plans & calibration procedures. Soft ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong background in electrical control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O * Operational skills to execute test plans & calibration procedures. Soft ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC

$110K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong background in electrical control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O * Operational skills to execute test plans & calibration procedures. Soft ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong background in electrical control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers * Familiarity with distributed control and I/O * Operational skills to execute test plans & calibration procedures. Soft ...

Manufacturing Operator I

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Accountable for complete accuracy in data input to material inventory control system. * Maintain records, process control charts, and other documentation as required. * Interpret operating procedures ...

Vector Control Operator I, II, III

Bolivia, NC · On-site

$19.74 - $30.84/hr

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About this Opportunity The Vector Control Operator performs duties for Vector Control and Water ... Experience applying aerial treatments using Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) technology. Familiarity ...

Nuclear Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including control system engineers, software developers, and plant operators to ensure system compatibility and performance. * Collaborate closely ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Work alongside experienced engineers, technicians, and operators in a mission-driven environment * Influence plant-wide control strategies and system architecture * Grow your career in a technically ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Work alongside experienced engineers, technicians, and operators in a mission-driven environment * Influence plant-wide control strategies and system architecture * Grow your career in a technically ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Work alongside experienced engineers, technicians, and operators in a mission-driven environment * Influence plant-wide control strategies and system architecture * Grow your career in a technically ...

Controls Engineer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including control system engineers, software developers, and plant operators to ensure system compatibility and performance. Qualifications ...

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Showing results 1-20

Distributed Control System Operator information

See Leland, NC salary details

$10

$21

$33

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Leland, NC is $21.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.09 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 cities near Leland, NC are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs?

Cities near Leland, NC with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Leland, NC 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 $44,294 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Controls Engineer

ITAC

Wilmington, NC

$77K - $100K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

ITAC serves Process & Industrial clients with integrated engineering and construction services for complex capital projects. We also offer specialty services including power systems services and products, custom machine fabrication, and fall protection services and equipment. Founded in 1988 on a dream and a $5K loan, ITAC is a true success story. From humble beginnings to an ENR-Ranked Top Design Firm with a nationwide footprint and over 500 employees operating from 6 offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, we provide Fortune 500 companies with innovative design-build solutions. We specialize in power generation & utilities, chemicals, food & beverage, forest products, advanced manufacturing, and minerals & metals.

ITAC's purpose is to make life better. For our employees, this means providing them with the resources and flexibility they need to have both a rewarding career and a fulfilling family life. ITAC is 100% employee-owned. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and Direct Stock Ownership, every team member has the unique opportunity to be an owner who shares in the company's growth and earnings. We offer our team a comprehensive benefits package and numerous employee incentives. Rooted in love, we serve and care for our employees like family.

We hire passionate and motivated people with an innovative mindset and the desire to grow. If the thought of challenging, fast-paced projects excites you, then you've come to the right place. At ITAC, you'll be part of a collaborative team that works hard to make life better. For more information, visit itac.us.com.

This is a seconded position, meaning the selected candidate will be employed by ITAC but work full-time on assignment with one of our clients. While day-to-day responsibilities will be managed on-site with the client, ITAC provides ongoing support, resources, and benefits as your employer. This position is full time contract work anticipated to last for 1-2 years, and requires the employee to be on the client's Wilmington, NC site. Please only apply if these requirements are agreeable to you.

Overview 

We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be responsible for working within or leading small multi-discipline teams to develop new optical fiber manufacturing equipment targeted at improved product attributes, reduced cost, or increased manufacturing output of optical fiber.

Responsibilities
  • Use established fundamentals of electrical and controls engineering to identify concepts for control of manufacturing equipment; and design, build and test selected concepts as an individual and in teams to enable improved and new manufacturing equipment and processes.
  • Specify, integrate, test, and validate controls hardware and software.
  • Collaborate with equipment design, processing equipment deployment, and manufacturing receivers during later stages of technology development.

Requirements

  • B.S. Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics engineering, or Similar, with 2+ years manufacturing experience working with process and automation equipment
  • Understanding of electrical theory and instrumentation including meters, oscilloscopes, function generators, power supplies, etc.
  • Control system (PLC, motion control, safety devices, high level languages) programming capability.
  • Demonstrated capability to integrate field devices for flow control, motion control, temperature control, and associated safety systems into an overall controls package.
  • Familiarity with electrical system design including control panel layouts, component selection, and schematics.
  • Strong experimental, instrumentation, control, and analytic skills to ensure data produced is valid and traceable.
  • Self-starter with strong independent work ethic.
  • Attention to detail with excellent organizational skill.
  • Ability to work interactively with cross functional teams with ties to Research and Early-Stage Development and Manufacturing.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge/experience in materials processing equipment
  • Experience with AC/DC motors & drives, SCR elements, and/or other electrical systems
  • Capable of providing solutions which require current and advanced control theory.
  • Strong background in electrical control systems, PLC's and microcontrollers
  • Familiarity with distributed control and I/O
  • Operational skills to execute test plans & calibration procedures.

Benefits

From internships to seasoned professionals, our growing company provides career opportunities for all levels of experience. We offer our team a comprehensive benefits package and numerous employee incentives. For life's challenges, we also provide our employees and their immediate families with certified chaplains for around-the-clock encouragement and support. Rooted in love, we serve and care for our employees like family. ITAC provides benefits such as

  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
  • 401k & ESOP
  • Life Insurance
  • Short & Long-Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Professional Development
  • Wellness Program
  • Safety Incentive Program
  • 24/7 Chaplain Care