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Contract Controls Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA ยท On-site

$99.70K - $131.60K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple ... Financially manage BMS and EPMS service contracts. Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA

$99.70K - $131.60K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple ... Financially manage BMS and EPMS service contracts. Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

Controls Engineer, ADC

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$82.70K - $107K/yr

... controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. - Manage multiple stakeholder ... EPMS service contracts. - Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation and/or under ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Controls Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do contract controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract controls engineer in Virginia is $95,745.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Controls Engineer job?

A Contract Controls Engineer is a temporary or project-based professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining control systems in industrial, manufacturing, or automation environments. They work with PLCs, SCADA systems, and other automation technologies to ensure efficient and reliable operations. Their role often includes programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing control systems to meet project or regulatory requirements. Typically, they collaborate with engineers, technicians, and stakeholders to deliver solutions on time and within budget. Contract positions allow flexibility and exposure to various industries and projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Controls Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or control systems engineering, experience with automation, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, control panel design software, and certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills for success in this dynamic role. These skills are crucial for delivering reliable automation solutions, ensuring project success, and collaborating efficiently with multidisciplinary teams on contract-based projects.

What does a typical day or week look like for a Contract Controls Engineer?

A Contract Controls Engineer typically spends their days designing, programming, and commissioning control systems for client projects, often working onsite and remotely based on project needs. The role involves collaborating closely with project managers, electricians, and other engineers to ensure all automation solutions are delivered on time and meet client specifications. Routine tasks may include troubleshooting system issues, developing technical documentation, and overseeing installation or upgrades of control panels. The work environment is fast-paced and project-oriented, providing variety and the opportunity to tackle new technical challenges each week.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Controls Engineer job openings:

Industrial Controls Engineer - Crane & Material Handling Systems

Qualdoc

Ashland, VA โ€ข On-site

$39/hr

Contractor

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Industrial Controls Engineer - Crane & Material Handling Systems
Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Shift: 1st Shift
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (6 months)
Pay: Starting at $39+/hour (based on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking a Controls Engineer with experience in industrial automation to support the design, integration, and improvement of control systems used in overhead cranes and lifting equipment. This role involves both new system development and upgrades to existing equipment, with a focus on performance, safety, and compliance.
Primary Responsibilities
System Design & Programming
  • Develop electrical control solutions for crane and material handling applications
  • Create and modify PLC programs and HMI interfaces to support motion control functions
  • Produce electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts
  • Select and integrate components such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), relays, sensors, and safety devices
  • Ensure systems meet applicable industry standards and codes

Installation & Commissioning
  • Support and lead system installation, startup, and commissioning activities
  • Configure PLCs, drives, and communication networks
  • Conduct system testing, validation, and performance tuning

Troubleshooting & Technical Support
  • Diagnose and resolve complex issues related to electrical and control systems
  • Provide technical assistance to field service and maintenance teams
  • Support retrofit and system upgrade projects

Collaboration & Process Improvement
  • Work cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and project teams
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to less experienced team members
  • Contribute to initiatives aimed at improving system reliability and efficiency

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in controls engineering within an industrial environment
  • Strong background in:
    • PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
    • HMI and/or SCADA systems
    • VFDs and motor control applications
  • Ability to design and interpret electrical schematics and control systems
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus)
  • Working knowledge of crane motion systems (hoist, trolley, bridge)
  • Familiarity with applicable standards such as CMAA, NEC (NFPA 70), and ASME

Preferred Experience
  • Exposure to advanced crane technologies such as automation, anti-sway controls, or load monitoring
  • Experience with system integration and commissioning in heavy industrial settings
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
  • Comfortable working in industrial environments, including elevated work areas when required
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities

Why Consider This Opportunity
This position offers the chance to work on complex automation systems in a specialized industry, contributing to both new designs and modernization efforts. It's a strong fit for engineers who enjoy hands-on problem solving and system optimization in a real-world industrial setting.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020