1

Control Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Process Control Engineer - West Point, VA The opportunity: The Process Control Engineer position: provides technological and engineering expertise for the implementation of new process control ...

Quality Control Engineer

Chester, VA · On-site

$69K - $103K/yr

Support Quality Control Laboratory operations, including review and validation of analytical ... Collaborate with production, engineering, and EHS teams to ensure quality requirements are embedded ...

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · 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 · 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 ...

Supporting quality control needs and activities for supplier quality, production quality, testing and validation, and engineering, as applicable in the local organization. * Executing and assisting ...

Supporting quality control needs and activities for supplier quality, production quality, testing and validation, and engineering, as applicable in the local organization. * Executing and assisting ...

Supporting quality control needs and activities for supplier quality, production quality, testing and validation, and engineering, as applicable in the local organization. * Executing and assisting ...

Control Engineer 3

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Overview Controls Engineers 3 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in ...

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 ...

Control Engineer 3

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Controls Engineers 3 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

Control Engineer 6

Christiansburg, VA · On-site

$155K - $233K/yr

Responsibilities Control Engineer 6 * Processes submittals, RFI's. * Posting RFI's and change orders. * Pricing, tracking and managing change orders. * Identifying change orders and ensuring ...

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Controls Engineers 3 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

Control Engineer 6

Tysons, VA · On-site

$172K - $258K/yr

Responsibilities Control Engineer 6 * Processes submittals, RFI's. * Posting RFI's and change orders. * Pricing, tracking and managing change orders. * Identifying change orders and ensuring ...

Control Engineer 2

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs * Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for Integrated Systems Factory Testing * Internal/External Comment Resolution * Programming * Lead ...

Control Engineer 1

Manassas, VA · On-site

$72K - $108K/yr

Controls Engineers 1 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Control Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for control 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 does a control engineer do?

A control engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They work with sensors, actuators, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often using tools like MATLAB or SCADA software. Control engineers also troubleshoot system issues and optimize performance to meet operational requirements.

What are the common challenges a Control Engineer faces when integrating new automation systems with existing infrastructure?

Control Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment or outdated infrastructure. These challenges include compatibility issues, communication protocol mismatches, and limited documentation for older systems. To overcome these obstacles, engineers must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—such as IT, process engineers, and equipment vendors—to ensure seamless integration and minimal disruption to operations. Proactive troubleshooting, robust testing, and clear documentation are also crucial for successful implementation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Control engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized certifications can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in senior or executive roles within large corporations or high-demand industries. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires years of expertise in designing and managing complex control systems.

What are Control Engineers?

Control Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that manage and regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. They use principles from engineering, mathematics, and computer science to create automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Their work often involves designing control systems for machinery, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability of operations. Control Engineers may also program and troubleshoot controllers like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and work closely with other engineering disciplines to optimize system performance.

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

To thrive as a Control Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control theory, and process automation, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as MATLAB or Simulink is essential, with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) being advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Control Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControl EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; similar certifications often applicable
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesManufacturing, robotics, process automation, software development
Employer & Industry UsageFactories, power plants, automation service providersManufacturers, tech companies, system integrators

Control Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for machinery and processes, while Automation Engineers often work on integrating automation solutions, including software and robotics, to improve efficiency. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial settings, but Control Engineers tend to concentrate more on control hardware and systems, whereas Automation Engineers emphasize automation software and systems integration.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing, automation, or process control environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Control engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing. Senior-level engineers in these fields often work on complex projects and may have leadership responsibilities that contribute to higher compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Control Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Control Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Control Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,745 per year, or $46 per hour.
Process Control Engineer (Riverville Mill)

Process Control Engineer (Riverville Mill)

pca

Gladstone, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking resumes for a Process Control Engineer's at our Gladstone, VA. Riverville Paper Mill.

The Process Control Engineer is responsible for coordinating the planning, organizing, programming, and maintenance of all mill PLC, Distributed, and Quality Control Systems. Responsible for managing a group of hourly union journeyman technicians on a daily basis for programming PLC and Distributed Control Systems based on operational and engineering needs. The engineer will help to define and participate in the development of control system daily and preventative maintenance programs to improve reliability of all included control systems in the mill.


Principle Accountabilities:

Providing technical direction, assistance, and solutions to hourly electrical maintenance and operating personnel. 

Work with key mechanical, reliability maintenance, and engineering personnel to support daily and monthly scheduled maintenance outages and annual outage jobs within the field of process control engineering.

Some crossover activities to the electrical/mechanical maintenance programs will be required to deliver complete programs for all types of equipment.

Work with maintenance/engineering and operations personnel to complete maintenance and capital projects.

Provide management and programming support including: necessary programming, training, stocking of spare parts, preventive maintenance checklists, drawing creation, and updates for the maintenance/engineering personnel as needed.

Supports the Mills goals for safety, environmental, and other areas of need.

Focus on Process Control supervision of hourly union work force, supervision of programming of all mill control systems for daily activities, and capital projects and control system equipment reliability.

Manage the control system equipment tracking programs and systems PM programs.

Utilize predictive & preventative maintenance programs to identify and correct equipment issues.

Input and update equipment information and documentation.

Develop equipment manuals for precision inspection and maintenance of the control systems in the mill.

Manage assigned work for monthly and annual outages.

Assist with MS Project timelines for monthly and annual outages.

Plan and execute capital projects for maintenance replacements of control systems equipment.

Effectively manage jobs for best result at lowest cost.

Look for opportunities to solve issues, reduce cost, and improve planning performance.

Solve problems utilizing the mill’s RCFA program.

Effectively manages contractors for performing jobs.

Performs other responsibilities as needed.


Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering or equivalent education and experience required.

A minimum of 2-5 years’ experience, or the equivalent, in Electrical or Chemical Engineering.

Experience using Microsoft Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word, Project, and AutoCAD.

Successful completion of drug screen required and authorization to work in the U.S.

 

Preferred Qualifications

Pulp & Paper industry experience preferred.

The successful candidate must possess the following Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Ability to be able to work well under pressure and within time constraints, multi-task, and build sound relationships with both internal and external customers

Ability to exhibit excellent communication, analytical, organizational, and computer skills.

Capable of independently making sound decisions through creative problem-solving, ambiguity, and change.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple requests simultaneously.

Ability to read and understand technical correspondence, memos, instructions, and reports.

Ability to apply skills to continuous process improvement while maintaining maximum levels of safety.

Demonstrated leadership skills and abilities.

Strong planning and follow up skills.

Excellent people and process management skills.

PAY & BENEFITS:

PCA provides a competitive, comprehensive benefits package.
Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision

401k with company matching

Retirement Savings Plan

Educational Assistance Program

11 paid holidays

3 Weeks of Vacation Time

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)


What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom