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Distributed Control System Operator Jobs in Tampa, FL

Minimum of two years as a Control Center Operator; * Minimum of three years as a Distribution System Operator III; * Minimum of three years of direct experience working rotating shifts through the ...

... Distributed Control System (DCS) and Emergency Shutdown (ESD) systems to ensure safe and reliable plant operations โ€ข Serve as a primary point of contact for control room operators, diagnosing and ...

Maintain/troubleshoot/repair plant Distributed Control System (DCS), GE Mark VI and PLC control systems. Recognize needs before they arise and take appropriate action. * Implement/modify/document ...

Maintain/troubleshoot/repair plant Distributed Control System (DCS), GE Mark VI and PLC control systems. Recognize needs before they arise and take appropriate action. * Implement/modify/document ...

The DCS Specialist coordinates and maintains the station's plant Distributed Control System (DCS) hardware and software. This position's responsibility includes ensuring DCS system reliability ...

The DCS Specialist coordinates and maintains the station's plant Distributed Control System (DCS) hardware and software. This position's responsibility includes ensuring DCS system reliability ...

INSTRUMENT & CONTROL MECHANIC (2)

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$22.90 - $33.57/hr

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Technical Proficiency Ability to use industrial programmable logic controls and distributed control systems. Skilled in calibrating analog input transmitters ...

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Distributed Control System Operator information

See Tampa, FL salary details

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

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for distributed control system operator in Tampa, FL is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $26.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Tampa, FL? For Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Tampa, FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Tampa, FL look for? The top searched job categories for Distributed Control System Operator jobs in Tampa, FL are:
What cities near Tampa, FL are hiring for Distributed Control System Operator jobs? Cities near Tampa, FL with the most Distributed Control System Operator job openings:
Energy System Operator

Energy System Operator

TECO

Lutz, FL โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 2 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Title:ย Energy System Operatorย 
Company: Tampa Electric Companyย 
State and City: Floridaย - LUTZ
Shift: 12 Hr. X 7 Days

POSITION CONCEPTย 

The Energy System Operator position consists of three general functions: ย Transmission, Generation, and Interchange. Within each of these functions, the Energy System Operator has the authority to take the appropriate actions to ensure the stable and reliable operations of the Bulk Electric System, up to and including the shedding of firm load. The Transmission function involves monitoring, taking appropriate action and directing the switching/clearances on lines of 69KV voltage and above. The Generation function involves balancing resources to the load. The Interchange function involves arranging, scheduling, monitoring and accounting for all interchange transactions. The Interchange function also is responsible for evaluating and approving transmission service requests. All functions require directing the activities of other TEC personnel. The Energy System Operator must be able to successfully perform all three functions (transmission, generation, and interchange). The Energy System Operator performs all ย of these functions in compliance with NERC and FRCC Standards.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESย 


Transmission Functionย 

  • Monitor power system and respond to alarms.ย Direct switching activity of the transmission system and issue Clearances to work on tagged and grounded equipment.
  • Ensure rapid recovery from loss of transmission facility and stabilize the power system to prevent further decay of system. ย This includes shedding of firm load.
  • Monitor Advanced Applications and respond to contingency violations.

Generation Functionย 

  • Review and update load forecast for next hour. Dispatch available generation resources to minimize production cost and maintain security of the power system.
  • Ensure rapid recovery from generation loss or loss of transmission facilities and stabilize the power system to prevent further decay of the system.
  • Monitor and control natural gas usage.

Scheduling Functionย 

  • Arrange, schedule, monitor and account for all interchange transactions.ย Respond to Transmission Service request.

QUALIFICATIONS
ย 

Educationย 
Required: Minimum of a High School Diploma or GEDย 

Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in related field

Licenses/Certificationsย 
Required: Current NERC RC or BIT certification OR the ability to pass the NERC System Operator Certification exam within six months of hiring is required. This certification must be maintained.ย 

Experienceย Required:ย ย  ย 

Experience in ONE of the following is required:

  • Engineering Degree with a minimum of one year of power plant or transmission/substation experience;ย Minimum of two years as a Control Center Operator;ย 
  • Minimum of three years as a Distribution System Operator III;
  • Minimum of three years of direct experience working rotating shifts through the Balancing, Interchange, and Transmission functions, performing the Duties & Responsibilities of a NERC-Certified BIT Level Operator with technical proficiency in interconnected operation;
  • Minimum of five years of experience, working the Control Room, as a Combined Cycle Specialist or an IGCC Process Specialist;
  • Minimum of five years of experience as a Power Trader;
  • Minimum of five years of experience as a Journeyman Substation Electrician with switching, troubleshooting, and relay & control experience;

Preferred: Previous experience in interconnected system operations as a NERC-Certified System Operator (Balancing Authority/Transmission Operator or higher); Power Plant, Substation, or Transmission Operations experience.ย 

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (KSA)ย 
Required: Must demonstrate sound judgment, and excellent leadership and communication skills. Strong computer skills with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications are required.

Preferred: Knowledge of NERC Reliability Standards. Energy Management System (EMS), Florida Transmission Management System (FTMS), integrated Tools for Operations Application (iTOA), Open Access Technology International's (OATI's) WebSmart and WebTrans/WebScheduler, and Energy Accounting (EA) Online.ย 

ย 
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIESย ย ย 

ย ย  ย Speaks Up on Safety, Health and the Environment
ย ย  ย Takes Ownership and Acts with Integrity
ย ย  ย Drives Operational Excellence for Customers
ย ย  ย Builds Strong, Collaborative Relationships
ย ย  ย Cultivates Innovation and Embraces Change
ย ย  ย Thinks Strategically and Exercises Sound Judgment


WORKING CONDITIONSย Ability to work rotating shifts and overtime is required.ย 

TECO offers a competitive Benefits package!!

Competitive Salary *401k Savings plan w/ company matching * Pension plan * Paid time off* Paid Holiday time * Medical, Prescription Drug, & Dental Coverage ย *Tuition Assistance Program * Employee Assistance Program * Wellness Programs * On-site Fitness Centers * Bonus Plan and more!

STORM DUTY REQUIREMENTS....Please make sure to read below!!!ย  Responding to stormsย will beย considered a condition of employment.

TECO Energy and its companies serve a role in providing critical services to our community during an emergency. Team members are required to participate in the response/recovery activities related to emergencies/disasters to maintain service to our TECO Energy customers. Team members are required to work in their normal job duties or other assigned activities. Proper compensation will be made in accordance with the company's rules and procedures.

TECO Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

TECO Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law, except where physical or mental abilities are a bona fide occupational requirement and the individual is unable to perform the essential functions of the position with reasonable accommodations.

In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities for all individuals, employment decisions at TECO Energy will be based on skills, knowledge, qualifications and abilities.

Pay Transparency Non-Discrimination Statement
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

ADA policy
It is the policy of TECO Energy to provide reasonable accommodation for all qualified disabled individuals who are employees and applicants for employment, unless it would cause undue hardship. The corporation will adhere to applicable federal and state laws, regulations and guidelines, including, but not limited to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1970s.

Application accommodations
Applicants may request reasonable accommodation in the application process five business days prior to the time accommodation is needed.

Pre-employment physical exams may be required for positions with bona fide job-related physical requirements regardless of disability.ย