Distributed Control System Operator Jobs
Distributed Control System Operator jobs are open across oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, and water treatment, with specializations in process control, plant operations, and systems monitoring, from entry-level console operators to senior lead operators. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 10+ Distributed Control System Operator jobs
Description
Step into a mission where what you do truly matters!
At Leidos, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. Powered by a team as diverse as it is talented, we're driven by a shared passion for delivering bold solutions that fuel our customers' success. We believe in empowering our people, giving back to our communities, and leading with sustainability. Every action we take is grounded in integrity and a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right—for our customers, our teams, and the world around us. Our Mission, Vision, and Values aren't just words—they're the compass guiding our journey toward a brighter future.
If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!
Leidos is on the hunt for a Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS) Instructor to support the 480 ISRW at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, VA. This is a great opportunity to bring your expertise to a mission‑focused team operating at the forefront of Air Force intelligence training. Candidates must currently possess an active Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Assists in providing instructional support services that will allow the 480 ISRW to achieve its mission while integrating evolving courseware design methodologies and information technologies to remain in synch with the Distributed Common Ground System’s (DCGS) evolving concept of operations and utilization of Analysis and Exploitation Teams (AET).
- Provide in-residence academic classroom instruction; administer performance tests, written tests, special instructional assistance, and “hands-on” application /lab instruction; conduct appraisals, simulation/exercise events, student feedback surveys, and student training status updates
- Share knowledge regarding DCGS products and use of instructional methods to provide the student-base the most realistic and relevant training
- Provide course content and scenario development expertise to create an operationally relevant active learning environment
- Possess knowledge of Learning Management System (LMS) technologies and/or training assessment/evaluation systems
- Provide white cell coordination and technical support to Capstone exercises and performance checks
- Provide detailed Quality Assurance reviews of courseware content
Required Qualifications:
- 3+ years of relevant experience; Bachelor’s degree or additional experience may be considered in lieu of degree)
- Active DoD TS/SCI security clearance
- Worked with the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System and familiar with mission related analytic tools (e.g. Thresher, ChatSurfer, ISpy, Snapglass, FADE/MIST)
- Experience with all source intelligence in support of operations
- Experience with ISR operations and multi-intelligence processing, exploitation, and dissemination
- Intelligence analysis experience with structured analytic techniques and critical thinking
- Understanding of ICDs
- Understanding of intelligence processes and organizational responsibilities within the AF and the Intelligence Community.
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Effective written and oral communication skills, including ability to communicate detailed technical information to peers and non-technical management staff as needed
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office
Preferred Qualifications:
- Air Force instructor certification
- Experience working within an AET
- Understanding of instructional Systems Design (ISD) strategies and authoring tools
- Scenario Development; exercise planning and execution
AMSOPP1
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
November 2, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $65,650.00 - $118,675.00The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.
Pay and Benefits
Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.
Securing Your Data
Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.
If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.
Description
Step into a mission where what you do truly matters!
At Leidos, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. Powered by a team as diverse as it is talented, we're driven by a shared passion for delivering bold solutions that fuel our customers' success. We believe in empowering our people, giving back to our communities, and leading with sustainability. Every action we take is grounded in integrity and a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right—for our customers, our teams, and the world around us. Our Mission, Vision, and Values aren't just words—they're the compass guiding our journey toward a brighter future.
If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!
Leidos is on the hunt for a Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS) Instructor to support the 480 ISRW at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, VA. This is a great opportunity to bring your expertise to a mission‑focused team operating at the forefront of Air Force intelligence training. Candidates must currently possess an active Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Assists in providing instructional support services that will allow the 480 ISRW to achieve its mission while integrating evolving courseware design methodologies and information technologies to remain in synch with the Distributed Common Ground System’s (DCGS) evolving concept of operations and utilization of Analysis and Exploitation Teams (AET).
- Provide in-residence academic classroom instruction; administer performance tests, written tests, special instructional assistance, and “hands-on” application /lab instruction; conduct appraisals, simulation/exercise events, student feedback surveys, and student training status updates
- Share knowledge regarding DCGS products and use of instructional methods to provide the student-base the most realistic and relevant training
- Provide course content and scenario development expertise to create an operationally relevant active learning environment
- Possess knowledge of Learning Management System (LMS) technologies and/or training assessment/evaluation systems
- Provide white cell coordination and technical support to Capstone exercises and performance checks
- Provide detailed Quality Assurance reviews of courseware content
Required Qualifications:
- 3+ years of relevant experience; Bachelor’s degree or additional experience may be considered in lieu of degree)
- Active DoD TS/SCI security clearance
- Worked with the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System and familiar with mission related analytic tools (e.g. Thresher, ChatSurfer, ISpy, Snapglass, FADE/MIST)
- Experience with all source intelligence in support of operations
- Experience with ISR operations and multi-intelligence processing, exploitation, and dissemination
- Intelligence analysis experience with structured analytic techniques and critical thinking
- Understanding of ICDs
- Understanding of intelligence processes and organizational responsibilities within the AF and the Intelligence Community.
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Effective written and oral communication skills, including ability to communicate detailed technical information to peers and non-technical management staff as needed
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office
Preferred Qualifications:
- Air Force instructor certification
- Experience working within an AET
- Understanding of instructional Systems Design (ISD) strategies and authoring tools
- Scenario Development; exercise planning and execution
AMSOPP1
If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
November 2, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $65,650.00 - $118,675.00The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.
About Leidos
Leidos is an industry and technology leader serving government and commercial customers with smarter, more efficient digital and mission innovations. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, with 47,000 global employees, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $16.7 billion for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2025. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.
Pay and Benefits
Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.
Securing Your Data
Beware of fake employment opportunities using Leidos’ name. Leidos will never ask you to provide payment-related information during any part of the employment application process (i.e., ask you for money), nor will Leidos ever advance money as part of the hiring process (i.e., send you a check or money order before doing any work). Further, Leidos will only communicate with you through emails that are generated by the Leidos.com automated system – never from free commercial services (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail) or via WhatsApp, Telegram, etc. If you received an email purporting to be from Leidos that asks for payment-related information or any other personal information (e.g., about you or your previous employer), and you are concerned about its legitimacy, please make us aware immediately by emailing us at LeidosCareersFraud@leidos.com.
If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement and report the incident to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.
See All 10 Distributed Control System Operator Jobs
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Find JobsDistributed Control System Operator Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Energy
- Technology & Software
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in distributed control system operator jobs.
- 2-5 years of hands-on DCS console operation experience in a continuous-process facility
- Proficiency with one or more major DCS platforms such as Honeywell Experion, Emerson DeltaV, or ABB 800xA
- High school diploma or GED required, with associate degree or technical certificate preferred
- Ability to monitor and respond to process alarms, upsets, and emergency shutdowns
- Knowledge of safety protocols including OSHA PSM regulations and lockout/tagout procedures
- Valid TWIC card or ability to obtain one for facilities with maritime or chemical security requirements
Tips for Your Distributed Control System Operator Job Search
Tailor your resume to DCS platforms
List the specific DCS platforms you've operated, such as Honeywell Experion, Emerson DeltaV, or ABB System 800xA. Hiring managers screen for exact platform names, so a generic 'process control systems' line will get passed over for candidates who name the hardware directly.
Highlight process units you've controlled
Name the specific units or processes you've managed, whether that's distillation columns, boilers, compressors, or water treatment trains. Operators who describe their actual process scope get more callbacks than those who list only generic DCS console duties.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists distributed control system operator openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by shift structure
Many DCS operator roles are 12-hour rotating shifts, but some facilities offer 8-hour days. Filtering by shift type early saves time and signals to employers that you understand the operational demands of continuous-process environments before you even walk in.
Prepare for scenario-based interview questions
Interviewers will ask how you've responded to alarms, process upsets, or equipment failures. Prepare two or three specific examples using the situation, action, and result format. Vague answers about 'monitoring parameters' won't distinguish you from other candidates.
Negotiate shift differentials, not just base pay
Total compensation for DCS operators often includes substantial shift differentials for nights, weekends, and holidays. When an offer comes, ask for the full breakdown by shift type so you're comparing the real earnings across offers, not just the hourly base rate.
Distributed Control System Operator Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most distributed control system operators?
The most active employers for distributed control system operators right now are Nuro, Alluxio, and NAES Corporation, and the most openings are in California, Texas, and Virginia, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Petrochemical plants, power utilities, and water municipalities tend to post the highest volumes of openings consistently.
How many distributed control system operator jobs are remote?
About 0% of distributed control system operator openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting that most DCS roles require on-site console presence in a control room. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are DCS engineering support, process control consulting, and systems configuration roles rather than direct operations.
How do you become a distributed control system operator?
Start with a high school diploma and complete a technical certificate or associate degree in process technology, industrial instrumentation, or a related field. Apply for entry-level field operator or board operator trainee positions at refineries, chemical plants, or utilities. Progress to console duties under experienced operators, build hands-on hours on a specific DCS platform, and pursue facility-specific certifications as your plant requires them.
Can you get hired as a distributed control system operator with little experience?
Yes, some facilities hire operator trainees with no prior DCS experience, particularly those with process technology degrees or military backgrounds in engineering or mechanical roles. Focus your search on trainee, operator assistant, and board operator apprentice titles. Emphasize any classroom DCS lab time, field maintenance exposure, or simulator training you've completed, since employers know console proficiency is built on the job.
What does the distributed control system operator interview process look like?
Most facilities start with a phone screen focused on your safety record and DCS platform experience. An on-site interview typically follows, covering process knowledge through scenario and behavioral questions about alarm response, process upsets, and shift handover procedures. Some employers add a written process safety or operations knowledge test. Final steps often include a facility tour, drug screening, and background check before an offer is extended.
Where can I find and apply to distributed control system operator jobs?
You can find and apply to distributed control system operator jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that fit your experience level, DCS platform background, and preferred industry, then apply directly to each listing that matches your profile.
See All 10 Distributed Control System Operator Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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