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Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

This is a management position that will oversee a team of 4-6 PLC Controls Engineers directly and 6 ... systems. * Previous experience managing Control Engineers and developing junior team members.

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) DESIRED SKILLS * Familiarity with geospatial ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please ... Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) DESIRED SKILLS * Familiarity with geospatial ...

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Terrestrial Software Systems Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly ... Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) DESIRED SKILLS * Familiarity with geospatial ...

Showing results 41-60

Control Systems Engineer information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$62.4K

$111.2K

$179.5K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for control systems engineer in Ashburn, VA is $111,235.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $129,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a control systems engineer?

Control systems engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that control and automate the operation of equipment or processes. They use principles from engineering, mathematics, and computer science to ensure that machinery and processes operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Control systems engineers work in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and automotive, where automated control and precision are essential. Their responsibilities often include creating and testing control algorithms, integrating sensors and actuators, and troubleshooting system issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering along with expertise in control theory and system dynamics. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial networking, and programming languages such as ladder logic or MATLAB/Simulink is typically required, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the design, implementation, and optimization of safe, efficient, and reliable automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by control systems engineers in fast-paced industrial environments?

Control Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected system faults under tight deadlines, integrating new automation technologies with legacy equipment, and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including process engineers, IT specialists, and maintenance staff—is essential to address these issues efficiently. Staying current with evolving industry standards and cybersecurity practices also plays a critical role in maintaining reliable and safe control systems.

What is the difference between Control Systems Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControl Systems EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Control Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test control systems in manufacturing, automation, or robotics industriesDesign, develop, and test electrical systems in power, electronics, or communication sectors
Industry UsageCommon in automation, robotics, manufacturing, and process controlWidespread across power generation, electronics, telecommunications, and industrial sectors

Control Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated control systems, while Electrical Engineers work on broader electrical systems. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but their industry applications and daily tasks differ.

Are control systems engineers in demand?

Control systems engineers are in high demand due to their role in designing and maintaining automation and control systems across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. The growing adoption of industrial automation, robotics, and smart technologies increases employment opportunities for these engineers, especially those with skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA?

The most popular types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Control Systems Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Control Systems Engineer jobs in Ashburn, VA are:

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for Control Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most Control Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in Ashburn, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,235 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Space Vehicle Attitude Control Systems Engineer

VTG

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$145K - $200K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Overview
VTG is seeking a Space Vehicle Attitude Control Systems Engineer, in Chantilly, VA. In this role, you will be responsible for monitoring, tracking, and reporting on progress & issues associated with spaceflight hardware currently in production and test for a classified space program. You will be an integral participant in ACS and mechanical actuator design, requirements development & verification, and unit integration & test for a next generation spacecraft architecture.
What will you do?
  • Review and coordinate changes to specifications, ICDs, and system level requirements documentation for ACS and propulsion subsystems.
  • Track development issues and attend unit, subsystem, system level design reviews.
  • Support launch and spacecraft on-orbit test, as required.
  • Identify and assess emerging risks and develops & evaluates proposed burn-down plans.
  • Review developer's readiness to proceed into spacecraft test at various levels of assembly.

Do you have what it takes?
  • Active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph
  • Bachelors Degree in Aerospace, Astronautical, or Mechanical Engineering and 9 years or more experience; Masters and 7 years or more experience; PhD or JD and 4 years or more experience.
    • Desired education and experience with spacecraft ACS hardware and software design, manufacture, simulation, and test
  • Experience in DoD IC acquisition and program management processes.
  • Working knowledge of control theory, reaction wheel/control moment gyro, star sensor/tracker, inertial reference units/sensors, sun sensor, magnetic torque rod, GPS receiver, and control algorithm development.
  • Experience in the design & integration of satellite buses and knowledgeable of launch & flight operations of space vehicles.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with personnel from multiple functions and at all levels of the customer organization to deliver results.

Pay Range: VTG's estimated starting pay range is $145,000 - $200,000 annually, which is a general guideline for the geographic location. When extending an offer, VTG also considers work experience, education, skill level, market considerations and may possibly include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range.