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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Control Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position ...

Control Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position ...

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and ...

Control Engineer 2 (Onsite)

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and ...

Control Engineer 4

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Job Overview Control Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and ... Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications

The Manager, Automation & Control Engineering (Management Path) is primarily responsible for leading complex team operations in field technical service engineering, ensuring Alcon equipment functions ...

Control Engineer 3

Leesburg, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs * Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for ... Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications.

Control Engineer 2

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs * Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for ... Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications.

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs * Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for ... Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications.

Senior Control Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

... programming, implementation, and support of industrial control systems that keep natural gas ... This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex automation challenges in a ...

Senior Control Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

... programming, implementation, and support of industrial control systems that keep natural gas ... This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex automation challenges in a ...

Control Engineer 1

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

... automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean ... and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various industries ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Control Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$41.9K

$121.3K

$184.6K

How much do automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation control engineer in Washington is $121,331.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $139,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Control Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsPower plants, electrical design firms, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, construction, electronics

Automation Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often working with PLCs and SCADA. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Control Engineers specialize in automation technology within industrial environments.

How does an automation control engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Automation Control Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as production and maintenance teams, to design, implement, and optimize automated systems. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as engineers must integrate control systems with other disciplines and ensure seamless operation within the larger production environment. Regular meetings, design reviews, and troubleshooting sessions are common, enabling the team to address challenges quickly and maintain project timelines. Building strong professional relationships and understanding each team's needs can greatly improve project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and process automation, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and relevant industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help set top candidates apart. Mastery of these skills ensures reliable system performance, smooth integration of automated solutions, and efficient troubleshooting in complex industrial environments.

What is an automation control engineer?

An Automation Control Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that control automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They work with technologies like programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and robotics to optimize and streamline production or operational workflows. Their work ensures efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. Automation Control Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to implement and troubleshoot control solutions.
What job categories do people searching Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Automation Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Automation Control Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Control Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,331 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Control Engineer

Automationtechies

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Do you enjoy solving technical challenges and working with both programming and electrical/mechanical systems? Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position collaborate closely with clients, manage multiple projects, and contribute to both technical execution and customer relationships. The role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced consulting environment and enjoys learning new technologies while taking ownership of projects from concept through commissioning.

As a well-established engineering consulting firm with over 20 years in business, they are known for delivering innovative automation and custom software solutions for manufacturing, testing, and product development applications. You will gain exposure to a variety of industrial automation systems and technologies, including PLCs, HMI/SCADA platforms, motion control, robotics, and machine vision. You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and traveling to customer sites for startup and troubleshooting activities.

Reasons you will be excited to work here:

  • Project-based company that fosters ongoing exploration and growth
  • Every employee interfaces with customers, allowing you to develop sales, project management, and business development skills.
  • Full benefits package: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health savings and flex spending accounts, paid parental leave, 401K Matching, competitive salaries, profit sharing, and bonuses.
  • They foster an inclusive, collaborative team environment.
  • Work with a team of smart professionals.
  • Take part in many company-sponsored events and activities.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and program automation applications using PLC, HMI, and SCADA platforms
  • Commission and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems at customer sites
  • Support system architecture design and full project lifecycle execution
  • Work directly with customers while managing project communication and deliverables
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership
  • Continuously learn and apply new automation technologies and best practices

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, or related field (REQUIRED)
  • 3-10 years of industrial automation experience
  • Must have a College GPA of 3.4 or higher (may have some wiggle room on this depending on other factors)
  • Strong programming background, including object-oriented and text-based programming
  • Experience with PLCs, motion control, process control, robotics, machine vision, and SCADA systems
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and work directly with customers
  • Strong communication and proposal development skills
  • Willingness to travel approximately 25–40%

To comply with some state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided. The range given is broad and should be considered as a guideline only. Our client will consider a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, the salaries of current employees in similar roles, and other factors when extending an offer.