Control operators are individuals designated or authorized by the owner of the repeater to oversee the operation of the repeater, maintain decorum, enforce rules, and ensure the repeater, as well as its users, company with FCC regulations. Control operators generally have the final say in what is or is not allowed or appropriate as far as content, language, and operating procedures. If a control operator makes a comment or suggestion, take it as constructive criticism. Even if you disagree with what a control operator says or does, you are obligated to respect and follow it, and there is never justification for contesting a control operator on the air.

If a control operator needs to interrupt a conversation, they typically announce themselves with their callsign followed by "control operator" or "control". When this occurs, users should stand by and allow them to assume control of the repeater, pass messages to one or more stations, or perform control functions.