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Building Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · 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 ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 4

Tysons, VA · 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 ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2

Tysons, VA · 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 ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 4

Tysons, VA · 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 ...

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All JobsBuilding Automation Control Engineer JobsBuilding Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Building Automation Control Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$41.9K

$121.3K

$184.6K

How much do building automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for building automation control engineer in Washington, DC 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 are Building Automation Control Engineers?

Building Automation Control Engineers are professionals who design, install, program, and maintain the systems that control a building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) operations—such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and security. Their work ensures buildings operate efficiently, safely, and comfortably by integrating various systems under centralized, automated control. These engineers often work with sophisticated software and hardware to optimize energy usage and maintain environmental standards. They may also troubleshoot issues, upgrade systems, and ensure compliance with relevant codes and regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by Building Automation Control Engineers during project implementation?

Building Automation Control Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, coordinating with multiple stakeholders (like HVAC technicians, electricians, and IT professionals), and ensuring that installations meet both client requirements and regulatory standards. Troubleshooting connectivity issues and optimizing system performance while minimizing downtime are also frequent concerns. Effective communication and adaptability are key to overcoming these obstacles and delivering successful projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Automation Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Automation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control systems, and HVAC principles, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with BAS/BMS platforms (such as Siemens, Honeywell, or Johnson Controls), programming languages, and industry certifications like LEED or Niagara are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help engineers effectively coordinate with clients and multidisciplinary teams. Mastery of these skills ensures efficient system design, integration, and maintenance, which are critical for occupant comfort, energy efficiency, and building sustainability.

What is the difference between Building Automation Control Engineer vs HVAC Controls Technician?

AspectBuilding Automation Control EngineerHVAC Controls Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering or related field, certifications like BACnet or CCNATechnical diploma or certification in HVAC or controls systems
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and system integration in commercial or industrial buildingsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of HVAC control systems
Employer & IndustryEngineering firms, building management companies, constructionHVAC contractors, facilities management, service companies

The Building Automation Control Engineer focuses on designing and programming building automation systems, while the HVAC Controls Technician handles installation and maintenance of HVAC control systems. Both roles require technical knowledge but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Building Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Building Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Building Automation Control Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Building Automation Control Engineer jobs near you
Control Engineer 2 (BMS and EMCS)

Control Engineer 2 (BMS and EMCS)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tysons, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 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

220th 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.
Control Engineer 2 (BMS and EMCS) supports the design, implementation, and commissioning of Building Management Systems that monitor and control HVAC, electrical, and other building systems. Working under the direction of senior engineers, this role contributes to controls design, programming, system integration, testing, and troubleshooting using industry-standard BMS platforms and open protocols such as BACnet and Modbus. The Control Engineer 2 collaborates with project teams and field personnel to deliver reliable, efficient, and scalable building automation solutions that meet project requirements, operational needs, and applicable codes and standards.
Responsibilities
Control Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery, and processes. Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design and implement solutions to solve our customer's most complex needs.
Design / Engineering
  • Originates design documents for small projects and in support of large programs.
  • Narrative Design Documents
  • Requirements Analysis
  • Subsystem Designs (CAD / Panels / Layouts / Wiring / HMI Screens/ Hardware / Communications)
  • Preparation of Specifications
  • Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs
  • Plans and Designs

Programming
  • Programming / configuration of BMS head end or supervisor applications.
  • Graphics development for BMS head end or supervisor applications and touchscreen HMI's.
  • Program / Configure / troubleshoot BMS controllers.
  • 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
  • Maintenance
  • Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators.
  • Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

Managerial Responsibilities
  • Conducts any surveys, inspections, tours, etc. of client sites, as required.
  • Assists senior engineers in preparation of Bids and Proposals cost estimates and supporting documentation.

Qualifications
Field Experience
  • Experience in reading electrical 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 Tools / Software
  • Experience in computer networks
  • Experience in CAD/CAE Software (AutoCAD / EPLAN)
  • Standard Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.)

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 PLCs or DDCs from at least 1 of the following platforms:
    • Siemens (SIMATIC)
    • Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) (Plant Pax preferred)
    • Schneider Electric (Modicon)
    • Tridium Niagara Framework
    • ABB (AC500, AC800M)
    • Omron
    • KMC Controls
    • Johnson Controls Metasys
    • Honeywell WEBS
    • Johnson Control FX
    • Siemens Desigo/Apogee
    • Distech Controls
    • Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
    • GE Intelligent Platforms
  • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting SCADA solutions from at least 1 of the following platforms:
    • AVEVA (formerly Wonderware) InTouch, System Platform
    • Ignition by Inductive Automation
    • GE Digital (iFIX, CIMPLICITY)
    • Siemens WinCC
    • Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View
    • AVEVA (formerly Schneider Electric) Citect SCADA
    • Intellution FIX32/HMI32 (Historical) by GE Digital
    • VTScada by Trihedral Engineering Limited
    • AVEVA (OSIsoft PI) Historian

Preferred Licenses / Certifications
  • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA)
  • Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)
  • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) In relevant in field
  • Certification in one or more PLC / Automation Platform, such as: Schneider, Rockwell, Siemens, Niagara, etc.
  • Certification in one or more SCADA platform, such as: AVEVA, Rockwell, Iconics, Ignition, etc.

Education / Experience
  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field 0+ years of experience
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of experience

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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