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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Santa Clara, CA

... operating systems, and their related products and technologies. Focused on improving distribution ... Solid understanding of supply chain technology and warehouse control systems within a complex ...

... operating systems, and their related products and technologies. Focused on improving distribution ... Solid understanding of supply chain technology and warehouse control systems within a complex ...

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Distributed Control System Operator information

See Santa Clara, CA salary details

$13

$28

$45

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Santa Clara, CA is $28.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $32.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 a Distributed Control System (DCS) 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distributed Control System Operator, and why are they important?

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 popular job titles related to Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA? For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Santa Clara, CA are:
What cities near Santa Clara, CA are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs? Cities near Santa Clara, CA with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Distributed Control System Operator job openings in Santa Clara, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,184 per year, or $28.9 per hour.
Facilities Power Distribution Electrical Engineer

Facilities Power Distribution Electrical Engineer

Intel

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Intel rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 142 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Details:Job Description: 

Note: This role requires regular onsite presence to fulfill essential job responsibilities.

  • Acting as Intel's System Owner of the site's electrical operations and associated distribution system.

  • Ensure planned and corrective maintenance are completed in a manner that keeps our electrical system operating to meet key indicators and customer requirements. Levering Maximo database to coordinate and document work and related repairs to completion.

  • Lead response to site electrical power outage disturbances and recovery.

  • Model the electrical power distribution system and track changes; troubleshooting electrical system problems, conducting breaker coordination and arc flash studies, track electrical load and capacity, utilize EasyPower system software

  • Track, trend and analyze electrical system usage utilizing PME and ION power monitoring software.

  • Deliver operational efficiency, maintenance, testing, and commissioning solutions; identify, qualify, and implement system upgrades; provide technical leadership to 3rd party support/validating that only qualified persons work on our equipment; participate in cross site teams by following cross-site alignment OKRs and BKMs.

  • Develops, reviews, and approves electrical specifications and maintenance procedures related to power supply units and their associated battery backup systems.

  • Ensures compliance with quality and reliability KPIs associated with assigned systems and equipment.

  • Monitors trends in equipment utilization, system capacity management, forecasting, and performance.

  • Establishes virtual sensors to flag adverse trends and creates work plans to analyze or correct adverse trends.

  • Reports on equipment and system health metrics and builds the manage, repair, and maintenance work order schedule.

  • Reviews equipment test reports and condition based or breakdown maintenance and conducts life extension evaluation to determine remaining life of assets.

  • Develops long-term end of life replacement project work scope and schedules and creates change point management.

  • Monitors project work impacting equipment or system and manages critical spare parts inventory associated with assigned systems and equipment.

  • Partners with electrical utility providers in driving quality of supply to factories and models the electrical power distribution system, tracks changes, troubleshoots electrical system problems, conducts breaker coordination and arc flash studies, and tracks electrical load and capacity.

  • Partners with Projects teams to enable site growth. Conducts analysis, audits of electrical systems, and leads complex electrical engineering projects and initiatives including working cross functionally with design teams, construction, field operations, vendors, and research and development teams.

  • Review and approve all electrical designs supporting the facility, effective collaboration with Project Managers and Project Engineers, architects, engineers and contractors on new construction/renovation projects. Apply NEC codes, including life safety and building code, read and interpret design drawings and specifications.

  • Perform commissioning and project closed out to validate we've received the required documentation, training and systems manuals to help maintain the facilities document control system by ensuring electrical as-built drawings are incorporated into the master CAD drawings.

Qualifications:

You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates. This position is not eligible for Intel immigration sponsorship.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or similar technical degree. This includes electrical modeling, reviewing equipment drawings and/or submittals, troubleshooting electrical equipment issues, implementing protective device coordination studies, and/or load flow analysis with 3+ years industry experience. in medium voltage electrical power systems (35kV and/or 12.47kV) maintenance, design, and/or operation.

  • Knowledge of low and medium voltage electrical distribution systems including transformers, low voltage substations, generators, and UPS systems.

The successful candidate should exhibit the following behavioral traits:

  • Commitment to safety, for yourself and those around you.

  • Collaborate effectively with a diverse, high-performing team to achieve challenging goals.

  • Willingness to work on multiple projects and issues concurrently.

  • Curiosity and a predisposition for learning and problem solving.

Job Type:Experienced HireShift:Shift 1 (United States of America)Primary Location: US, California, Santa ClaraAdditional Locations:Business group:Intel Foundry strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art while delighting our customers -- from delivering cutting-edge silicon process and packaging technology leadership for the AI era, enabling our customers to design leadership products, global manufacturing scale and supply chain, through the continuous yield improvements to advanced packaging all the way to final test and assembly. We ensure our foundry customers' products receive our utmost focus in terms of service, technology enablement and capacity commitments. Employees in the Foundry Technology Manufacturing are part of a worldwide factory network that designs, develops, manufactures, and assembly/test packages the compute devices to improve the lives of every person on Earth.Posting Statement:All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.Position of TrustN/ABenefits

We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.

Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $89,010.00-170,630.00 USDThe range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Work Model for this Role

This role will require an on-site presence. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.

*

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968