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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Automation Engineer (Industrial Controls / PLC Systems) Location: Ashburn, VA (On-site) Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Compensation: Based on experience and current compensation About the ...

Gateway Automation Engineer * Position Type: Full-time-Remote Role Specific Duties/ Role ... Support automated checks for API specification quality, governance compliance, Zero Trust controls ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$52.1K

$111.2K

$159.1K

How much do controls and automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Washington, DC is $111,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,600.00 and $125,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Controls And Automation Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls And Automation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or automation engineering; certifications like PLC programming or control system design are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and testing control systems in manufacturing, industrial, or automation settingsDesigning electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry in various industries
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process control industriesWidespread across power, construction, manufacturing, and consulting sectors

Controls And Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems and automation solutions, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in specialization and application areas.

What is a controls and automation engineer?

Controls and Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their main goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability by implementing control systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and robotics. They work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate hardware and software solutions, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure optimal operation of automated processes. These engineers play a vital role in modern industrial settings by enabling advanced automation and data-driven decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls and automation engineer?

To thrive as a Controls and Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial network protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges controls and automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing processes?

One common challenge Controls and Automation Engineers encounter is ensuring that new automation systems are compatible with existing legacy equipment and processes. This often requires careful planning, extensive testing, and sometimes custom interface development to avoid disruptions in production. Additionally, balancing the need for increased automation with maintaining system reliability and safety standards can be complex. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as IT, production, and maintenance, is crucial to address these integration hurdles effectively.
What are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,205 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Controls and Automation Engineer

Altus Technology Solutions

Indian Head, MD

$135K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Location: Indian Head, MD

Schedule (FT/PT): Full Time

Travel Required: No

Shift: Day

Remote Type: No Remote

Clearance: Active U.S. DoD SECRET Security Clearance

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline

Years of Experience: 8+ years of relevant electrical engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, automation, or process-oriented environments

Salary Information: $135,000 - $170,000 per year

Description

Altus Technology Solutions is seeking a Senior Controls and Automation Engineer to support a high-impact program at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) that delivers technical expertise in energetics development, manufacturing, and facility modernization in support of national defense programs.

The Senior Controls and Automation Engineer supports Engineering Change and Modernization Projects (ECMP) involving industrial control systems, manufacturing process improvements, facility modernization efforts, and implementation of new production capabilities supporting energetics and munitions manufacturing operations, while contributing to engineering, manufacturing, safety, laboratory, and project management activities associated with energetic materials operations and modernization initiatives.

The ideal candidate will possess strong experience with industrial automation systems, electrical control system design, PLC-based control architectures, manufacturing process support, and modernization of production systems. The successful candidate will collaborate with engineers, production personnel, government stakeholders, equipment vendors, and project teams to develop, integrate, test, and sustain manufacturing control systems in complex production environments.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, integrate, and support industrial electrical and control systems for manufacturing and production environments.

  • Support Engineering Change and Modernization Projects (ECMP) involving installation of new manufacturing capabilities and upgrades to existing production systems.

  • Develop electrical and control system designs, schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.

  • Utilize EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical to create and maintain engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and design packages.

  • Design, configure, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based automation systems.

  • Support implementation and integration of Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell Automation software suites.

  • Perform system testing, validation, commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities for control systems and production equipment.

  • Develop and execute test plans to validate electrical and control system functionality and performance.

  • Collaborate with equipment vendors, subcontractors, and technical stakeholders to support fabrication, installation, testing, and startup activities.

  • Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, efficiency gains, and system optimization.

  • Provide technical support for electrical systems, instrumentation, automation equipment, and production control systems.

  • Develop technical specifications, equipment bills of material, operating procedures, test plans, test reports, and engineering documentation.

  • Support facility modernization efforts and installation of new manufacturing processes and equipment.

  • Provide technical input into facility design and advise on safety standards and regulations associated with electrical systems supporting manufacturing process facilities.

  • Participate in design reviews, technical reviews, project planning activities, and customer meetings.

  • Coordinate technical activities across multidisciplinary engineering, manufacturing, safety, and production teams.

  • Ensure compliance with applicable safety standards, quality requirements, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.

  • Perform other duties as assigned to support operational and organizational objectives.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline.

  • Minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible electrical engineering experience.

  • Experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, production, or process-oriented environments.

  • Experience with industrial control systems, automation technologies, and PLC-based systems.

  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell Automation software platforms.

  • Experience creating electrical schematics and engineering documentation using AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN.

  • Experience troubleshooting electrical, automation, and control systems.

  • Experience supporting installation, testing, commissioning, and startup of industrial equipment and systems.

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work effectively with government personnel, vendors, subcontractors, and multidisciplinary teams.

  • U.S. Citizenship.

  • Active U.S. DoD SECRET Security Clearance.

Preferred:

  • Experience supporting Department of Defense manufacturing, industrial, or research facilities.

  • Experience with hydraulics and pneumatics systems.

  • Experience supporting energetics, ammunition, munitions, or explosives manufacturing operations.

  • Experience with process safety and material handling requirements.

  • Experience integrating PLCs, HMIs, instrumentation, sensors, and industrial networking systems.

  • Experience supporting facility modernization, production expansion, or capital improvement projects.

  • Active Top Secret clearance or eligibility for higher levels of access.

  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.

About Altus

Since 2004, Altus Technology Solutions has been committed to providing top-quality, performance-driven services to both government and commercial clients. As an ISO 9001:2015 Certified firm, Altus integrates proven solutions with industry-leading practices to tackle mission-critical challenges.

Learn more at www.Altusts.com.

Pay and Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience

  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Retirement savings plan with employer contributions

  • Income protection through short- and long-term disability insurance

  • Education assistance for professional growth

  • Flexible paid leave and career advancement opportunities

Commitment to Equal Opportunity Employment

Altus Technology Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws. As a federal contractor, we are committed to hiring and retaining a workforce that includes individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please contact recruiting@altusts.com.

Protecting Your Information

We never request payment or personal banking details during the hiring process. If you encounter suspicious emails, contact us at support@altusts.com immediately.

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