Abstract
This study employs Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) to interpret the lived experiences of 101 nuclear control room operators and their opinions. We analyzed narrative survey responses focused on four key domains: situational awareness, workload, automation, and vigilance. The analysis constructed six interrelated themes: (1) Alarm overload and prioritization challenges; (2) Multitasking and workload pressure; (3) Interface design and information overload; (4) Communication and team coordination challenges; (5) Operator fatigue and alertness; and (6) Automation benefits, challenges, and desired capabilities. Operators consistently reported high cognitive load, citing multitasking demands and overwhelming alarm floods as major issues. Other challenges included fragmented information displays, communication breakdowns during high-stress periods, and operator fatigue, particularly on night shifts. While automation was valued for routine tasks, operators reported confusion from false alarms and a lack of system transparency. These findings emphasize that the human operator remains central to system safety, despite high levels of automation. We conclude that its Digital Control Rooms (DCRs) require a human-centered design approach. Key recommendations include implementing intelligent, prioritized alarm systems to mitigate overload, developing integrated displays to reduce multitasking burdens, and designing transparent and explainable automation. Finally, operational policies must proactively manage operator fatigue.