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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 5 (BMS and EMCS)

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

As a Control Engineer 5 , you will serve as the Lead Control Engineer on Building Management and ... Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex building automation projects. * Program ...

Raya Workforce

Automation Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Automation Engineer (Industrial Controls / PLC Systems) Location: Ashburn, VA (On-site) Employment ... This role is focused on delivering high-reliability automation and control systems that support ...

Quality Agents

Automation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

Develop, modify, and troubleshoot automation logic (PLC, SCADA, DCS) in support of process control ... Collaborate with QA, Validation, Engineering, and IT to support system lifecycle management and ...

Quality Agents, LLC

Automation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

Develop, modify, and troubleshoot automation logic (PLC, SCADA, DCS) in support of process control ... Collaborate with QA, Validation, Engineering, and IT to support system lifecycle management and ...

Catalyx

Automation Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD

Catalyx is seeking an Automation & IT Integration Engineer with a strong background in process control systems and industrial automation. This role serves as a key interface between Automation/OT and ...

DANE LLC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in ... Experience with Git / GitLab version control workflows in an agile development environment

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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 Jun 12, 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 does an automation control engineer do?

An automation control engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes and industrial operations. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and control software to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability. The role often requires knowledge of electrical systems, control theory, and relevant certifications or training.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare technical expertise and certifications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

Automation control engineers design and maintain systems that automate industrial processes. While AI can enhance automation capabilities, it is unlikely to fully replace automation engineers, as their expertise is needed for system design, troubleshooting, and integration of new technologies. Skills in programming, control systems, and troubleshooting remain essential in the evolving automation industry.

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 are popular job titles related to Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington? For Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Automation Control Engineer jobs near you
Control Engineer 5 (BMS and EMCS)

Control Engineer 5 (BMS and EMCS)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tysons, VA • On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

M.C. Dean rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

221st of 352 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
About M.C. Dean
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.
Why Join Us?
Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values-agility, expertise, and trust-we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.
As a Control Engineer 5, you will serve as the Lead Control Engineer on Building Management and Energy Management System projects supporting mission-critical facilities. This role requires expert-level proficiency with the Tridium Niagara Framework and a strong technical understanding of HVAC, electrical, and other critical building systems that support always-on operations. You will be responsible for the technical design, development and implementation of proprietary BMS and Niagara-based solutions, including system architecture, data modeling, control logic, and integration with building and infrastructure systems. You will develop system integrations using protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, M-Bus, SNMP, and API-based interfaces, that connect BMS platforms to enterprise monitoring and analytics systems. In addition, you will support other projects through design reviews, troubleshooting assistance, and best-practice guidance, while collaborating closely with clients, operators, and project teams to deliver high-confidence BMS and EMCS solutions for mission-critical facilities.
Responsibilities
Design / Engineering
  • Originates design documents for small and medium projects and in support of large programs.
  • Narrative Design Documents
  • Requirements Analysis
    • Experience reading mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) drawings
  • Subsystem Designs (CAD / Control Panels / Floorplan Layouts / Wiring / User Interface Graphics Screens/ Hardware / Communications)
  • Preparation of Specifications
  • Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs and submittal packages
  • Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for Integrated Systems Factory Testing
  • Internal/External Comment Resolution

Programming
  • Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex building automation projects.
  • Program / Configure / troubleshoot JACE's, programmable BMS controllers, application specific BMS controllers and BMS HMI/touchscreens
  • Program / Configure / troubleshoot BMS supervisor or head-end software
  • Build/edit/troubleshoot BMS user interface graphics, including building graphics templates

Testing / Troubleshooting / Deployment / Commissioning
  • Author testing / commissioning procedures
  • Preparation of test reports
  • Originates test procedures
  • Commissioning of deployed systems
  • Development of test fixtures and simulation devices
  • Perform Factory and Field Testing
  • Troubleshoot complex BMS issues during testing
  • Technical support of entry-level engineers and technicians during testing, start-up and commissioning

Maintenance
  • Support field engineers and technicians troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy systems.
  • Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

Managerial Responsibilities
  • Estimates
    • Conducts any surveys, inspections, tours, etc. of client sites, as required.
    • Prepares cost estimates and supporting documents for small projects.
    • Complete control system take-offs from mechanical, electrical and/or controls drawings
    • Assists senior engineers in preparation of Bids and Proposals cost estimates and supporting documentation.
    • Evaluation and pricing of change orders
  • Personnel Management
    • Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers
    • Assigns tasks and coordinates with Technical Staff

Qualifications
  • Requirements
    • Proficient in programming languages such as ladder logic and structured text.
    • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues.
    • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting BMS (DDC) controllers from at least 1 of the following platforms:
      • Johnson Controls Metasys
      • Johnson Control FX
      • Honeywell WEBS
      • Siemens Desigo/Apogee
      • Distech Controls
      • Alerton Compass
      • Schneider Ecostruxure
    • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting BMS supervisor/front-end solutions from at least 1 of the following platforms:
      • Ignition by Inductive Automation
      • Tridium Niagara Framework (or OEM equivalent such as Johnson Control FX or Distech Controls EC-Net 4)
      • Johnson Controls Metasys
      • Honeywell WEBS
      • Siemens Desigo/Apogee
      • Distech Controls Envysion
      • Alerton Compass
      • Schneider Ecostruxure

    Field Experience
    • Experience in reading mechanical, electrical, plumbing and control schematics and plans
    • Experience in control system startup, configuration, and calibration
    • Experience in testing and troubleshooting control systems
    • Experience using basic electrical and machinist hand tools
    • Experience using testing, calibration, or industry-specific tools and software
    • Experience with a variety of HVAC and building central plant systems, such as constant and variable air volume systems, chilled water, condenser water and heating water systems, and split-systems and variable refrigerant systems

    Tools / Software
    • Experience in computer networks
    • Experience in CAD/CAE Software (AutoCAD / EPLAN)
    • Experience with standard Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook etc.)

    Preferred Licenses / Certifications
    • Certification in one or more BMS or Building Automation Platform, such as: Schneider Ecostruxure, Siemens Desigo, Niagara N4 (Tridium or OEM), Ignition etc.
    • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA)
    • Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)
    • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)

    Education / Experience
    • Master's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field 7+ years of experience
    • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field with 10+ years of experience

    Specific Experience Requirements
    • Must have 7+ years' experience programming/configuring/troubleshooting Tridium Niagara N4 (or OEM equivalent) for BMS projects
  • Attend regular in-person meetings with customers outside of assigned office.
  • Possess driver's license and vehicle for transportation to customer sites. This position may require ongoing or intermittent use of a company vehicle. Selected candidates must possess an acceptable driving record in accordance to our policy

Abilities
  • Exposure to computer screens for an extended period of time.
  • Sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
  • Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard.
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
  • Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
  • Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Identify and understand the speech of another person.

What M.C. Dean employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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