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

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Control Systems Engineer information

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$62.4K

$111.2K

$179.4K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 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 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,187 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Senior Control Systems Engineer, Poland AP1000

Bechtel

Reston, VA • On-site

$106K - $154K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Bechtel rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 452 rated engineering


Job description

Requisition ID: 297939
  • Relocation Authorized: National - Family
  • Telework Type: Part-Time Telework
  • Work Location: Reston, VA
  • Salary Range: $106,900 - $154,700 annually (salary range is based on market data; final salary offered is determined by education, experience, and qualifications of the applicant.)

Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report.
Project Overview:
Bechtel and Westinghouse Electric Company have partnered to deliver the first AP1000 nuclear power reactors in Poland for our customer, the Polish Entity Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe (PEJ). Bechtel will be the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for the project. As the EPC, our responsibilities will include providing the design for the Turbine Island and Balance of Plant as well as the construction of the entire facility. This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity, and we are looking for the talent that will help expand Poland's nuclear base and build a strong and long-lasting energy future for generations to come. Upon initial hire and onboarding, the position will require full-time presence in the Reston, Virginia project office. Part-Time telework flexibility may be an option as the project progresses.
Job Summary:
As a Senior Control Systems Engineer, you will plan and conduct independent work, requiring judgement in the evaluation, selection, application and adaption of engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria. You will have technical responsibility for interpreting, organizing, and coordinating assignments. You must have a strong working knowledge of the principles and practices related to Control Systems Engineering and understand standard engineering work planning, scheduling, and cost estimating. In this role, you will report to an Engineering Supervisor and will interface and coordinate with other Control Systems work groups, other engineering disciplines, other functional departments, business partners and the client in the development of the design. The ideal candidate will have solid experience in control system design and will be capable of developing design documents that incorporate the applicable design. In addition, it will be required that the candidate have excellent communication skills (both verbal and written), and can be the "face" of Bechtel, promoting our leadership, quality, and safety values, to external partners including vendors, construction companies, and other subcontractors. This role will be based in Reston, VA, with the potential for periodic business travel to Poland offices, business partner offices, supplier facilities and jobsites, as required. #LI-EH1
Major Responsibilities:
  • Designs Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for various plant systems
  • Prepares conceptual studies, designs, reports or proposals
  • Prepares system design descriptions
  • Specifies and applies instrumentation and control valves
  • Generates instrument data sheets and material requisitions
  • Originates and reviews Control Systems discipline calculations
  • Designs and reviews binary and analog control logic
  • Allocates facility control system I/O
  • Designs and applies instrument installation details
  • Enters data into instrumentation, valve and I/O databases
  • Reviews supplier-provided data and documentation
  • Coordinates Control Systems engineering efforts in assigned areas with specialty groups, other engineering disciplines, suppliers, business partners, the client, Construction and other functional groups
  • Coaches more junior Control Systems team members

Education and Experience Requirements:
Requires Bachelor's of Science degree in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Electro-Mechanical Engineering (or other related engineering field) from an accredited university or college and 5-8 years of relevant experience, or 9-12 years of relevant work experience in lieu of degree
Required Knowledge and Skills:
  • Experience in nuclear plant design (commercial power plant or DOE facility)
  • Experience in working with procedures meeting quality assurance programs such as ASME-NQA-1
  • Knowledge of industry and regulatory guides, codes, and standards (e.g., ISA, ASME, ANSI/IEEE, and/or European standards)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft 365 application suite (e.g., Word, Excel, Access, Visio, PowerPoint, etc.)
  • Extensive knowledge of Control Systems Engineering work processes and specifications
  • Willingness to travel on business trips in support of the project
  • Excellent verbal and written communication, planning, and organizational skills

Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably. Click here to learn more about the people who power our legacy.
At Bechtel, our employees enjoy a competitive total rewards package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with optional disability and supplemental insurance options, generous paid time off (160 hours annually, accrued 6.16 hours per pay period), nine paid holidays, paid parental leave, discretionary bonuses, and a well-designed 401K plan with matching and profit-sharing components
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com

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