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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Pinnaql

Automation Project Manager

Rockville, MD

$96K - $126K/yr

Automation Project Manager Job Summary We are seeking a Automation Project Manager to support an ... Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and ...

Pinnaql

Automation Project Manager

Rockville, MD

$96K - $126K/yr

Automation Project Manager Job Summary We are seeking a Automation Project Manager to support an ... Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and ...

Pinnaql

Automation Project Manager

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Senior Automation Engineer Job Summary We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to support an ... Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and ...

CDM Smith

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation engineers in our Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions! The successful candidate will be ...

CDM Smith

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation engineers in our Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions! The successful candidate will be ...

Albireo Energy

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Albireo Energy

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Generac

Senior Controls Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

Formalized training and/or education in Industrial Automation, Engineering, Computer Science or MIS Preferred Qualifications * 5 + years' experience with three-phase AC power system controls and ...

Boeing

Senior Facilities Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

... and automation systems. Position Responsibilities: * Support technical troubleshooting and ... Experience as a controls engineer working with commissioning, testing and troubleshooting of ...

Boeing

Senior Facilities Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA

$111K - $147K/yr

... and automation systems. Position Responsibilities: * Support technical troubleshooting and ... Experience as a controls engineer working with commissioning, testing and troubleshooting of ...

Fusion ICS

Senior Controls Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer will also be responsible for the design, development, integration, commissioning, and ongoing support of Inductive Automation Ignition Vision graphics and applications.

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$52.1K

$111.2K

$159.1K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Washington, DC is $111,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation controls engineer?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What does an automation controls engineer do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges automation controls engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

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

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,165 per year, or $53.4 per hour.

Automation Project Manager

Pinnaql

Rockville, MD

$96K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Validation & Engineering Group, Inc. (V&EG) a Pinnaql company is a leading services supplier who provides solutions for the Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Chemical, Food, and Medical Devices industries in the following areas: Laboratory, Compliance, Computer, Engineering, Project Management, Validation, and other services.

We are seeking a talented, dedicated individual committed to work under the highest ethical standards for the following position:

  • Automation Project Manager

Job Summary

We are seeking a Automation Project Manager to support an Automation Resilience Program in Rockville, MD.

The selected candidate will lead and coordinate automation engineering, implementation, testing, commissioning, validation support, documentation, and project closeout activities. The role will work closely with Engineering, Automation, Operations, Quality, Validation, IT, and external vendors.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead automation projects from design and planning through implementation and closeout.

  • Support modifications and improvements to BMS, COPA-DATA Zenon (CDZ), EMS, PLCs, and process automation systems.

  • Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and implementation activities.

  • Develop and coordinate testing, commissioning, and validation activities.

  • Support creation, execution, review, and approval of validation protocols in accordance with site requirements.

  • Manage project schedules, risks, issues, change controls, work orders, and action items.

  • Coordinate outages, shutdowns, dependencies, and implementation activities in an active manufacturing environment.

  • Ensure compliance with GMP, safety, quality, and site procedures.

  • Review and maintain engineering drawings, configuration records, test documentation, and as-built/turnover packages.

  • Coordinate with internal stakeholders, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure successful project delivery.

  • Proactively escalate risks impacting safety, compliance, schedule, quality, or operations.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Automation, Controls, Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation, or related field.

  • 8+ years of experience in automation, controls, engineering, or related manufacturing environments.

  • Experience supporting automation projects in pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, or other GMP-regulated environments.

  • Strong project execution and stakeholder management skills.

  • Experience with commissioning, testing, qualification, or validation activities.

  • Experience working in active manufacturing facilities with controlled implementation/outage requirements.

Preferred Experience

  • Siemens Desigo / BMS

  • COPA-DATA Zenon

  • Rockwell PLC / Controls

  • Environmental Monitoring Systems (EMS)

  • Process automation and system integration

  • PLC/control system migration

  • Automation architecture and data historization

  • GMP computerized systems

  • Commissioning and qualification

At Validation & Engineering Group, people always come first. We believe that when you're empowered to do your best work, bold ideas thrive and real progress happens. This isn't just a job - it's an opportunity to make a meaningful difference by shaping the future of healthcare and technology alongside a purpose-driven, supportive team.
Excited to build something meaningful together? We look forward to hearing from you.
Validation & Engineering Group is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.

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