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

Leidos is seeking a Control Systems Engineer to support the availability, reliability, and operational integrity of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) / SCADA that underpin critical infrastructure and ...

Control Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos is seeking a Control Systems Engineer to support the availability, reliability, and operational integrity of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) / SCADA that underpin critical infrastructure and ...

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Control Systems Engineer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$62.4K

$111.2K

$179.4K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for control systems engineer in Fairfax, VA is $111,187.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $129,300.00 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 Fairfax, VA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Control Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

For Control Systems Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,187 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Control Systems Engineer

Leidos

Springfield, VA

$73K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 152 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 499 rated business services


Job description

Leidos is seeking a Control Systems Engineer to support the availability, reliability, and operational integrity of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) / SCADAthat underpin critical infrastructure and mission-critical facilities environments. This role is vital to ensuring continuous system uptime and operational excellence across multiple technical domains.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technical expert with strongICSexperience, adept in troubleshooting complex systems and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams. The individual should be familiar with control system database configuration and management and be comfortable with core facilities control system principles.

This position would also at times support Chantilly if needed, but at least 75% of the candidates time would be Springfield, VA.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Oversee the deployment, operation, and monitoringofICSto support critical infrastructure and minimize downtime.

  • Perform advanced diagnostics, root cause analysis, and rapid troubleshootingto resolve system malfunctions.

  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and HVACteams to ensure seamless integration and performance of control systems by contributing to design and installation.

  • Interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and project documentation to validate system design and ensure robust implementation.

  • Develop and deliver technical training programsto field staff, focusing on reliability, incident response, and best practices.

  • Build strong relationships with vendors, contractors, and service providersto coordinate technical support, manage warranties, and lead system upgrades.

  • Support implementation of procedural and policy changes across sites to improve operational consistency and compliance.

  • Contribute to projects spanning systems integration, system administration, andfield operationswith moderate to high impact.

  • Stay upto date with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and emerging technologiesinICSand critical infrastructure protection.

Basic Qualifications

  • US Citizenship and ability to obtain TS/SCI w/ Poly Clearance

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree and 5-8 yearsof relevant experience.

  • Proven experience supporting Industrial Control Systems (ICS)in high-availability or mission-critical environments.

  • Strong background in mechanical, electrical, or HVAC systems, with hands-on expertise integrating these withICSplatforms.

  • Demonstrated ability to create and deliver technical trainingfocused on system uptime and incident management.

  • Excellent communication and technical documentationskills.

  • Strong vendor management capabilities, including coordinating technical support and managing system enhancements.

  • Extensive experience with control system configuration and management. Preferably with Ignition.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Ignition

  • Experience with Tridium Niagara Framework (N4)

  • Experience in system administration, systems integration, or network installation in critical infrastructure settings.

  • Familiarity with Microsoft Windows environments and relevant industrial automation software.

  • Working knowledge of configuration management, document control, and system lifecycle support.

  • Certifications such as CompTIA Network+, Security+, CCNA, or similar.

  • Familiarity with ITIL frameworks or other service management practices.

  • Experience with policy implementation, procedure development, and cross-team collaboration in large-scale operations.

  • Experience with BACnet and Modbus protocols

  • Experience with DG Logik

  • Control Systems PE

EC-DAS

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 1, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $73,450.00 - $132,775.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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