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Controls Application Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA

$79.50K - $106.30K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, VA - On Site About Accelevation We build what the ... Collaborative, high-energy workplace Job Application Notice Accelevation LLC does not ask for ...

Application Security Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60.50 - $80.75/hr

We are seeking an Application Security Engineer with expertise in Static and Dynamic Application Security Testing (SAST & DAST) methodologies and enterprise-level security controls. Your mission is ...

Application Security Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$60.50 - $80.75/hr

We are seeking an Application Security Engineer with expertise in Static and Dynamic Application Security Testing (SAST & DAST) methodologies and enterprise-level security controls. Your mission is ...

Controls Engineer

Forest, VA

$70K - $90.60K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical ... job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other ...

Controls Engineer

Forest, VA · On-site

$70K - $90.60K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical ... job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other ...

Controls Engineer

Forest, VA

$70K - $90.60K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical ... job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other ...

Controls Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$81.20K - $105.10K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining electrical ... job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other ...

APPLICATION SECURITY ENGINEER

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$60 - $80.25/hr

Application Security Engineer Location: Onsite in Fairfax, VA 3 days and in Washington, DC 2 days ... Provide CISSP-level expertise on risk evaluation, compensating controls, and secure architecture ...

Research new controls solutions such as sensors, actuators, VFDs, and networks. * Develops custom ... Application of control loops to provide machine control * Programming for controllers (DDC/PLC)

DCSI Electrical & Controls Engineer

Daleville, VA · On-site

$71.80K - $96K/yr

Research new controls solutions such as sensors, actuators, VFDs, and networks. * Develops custom ... Application of control loops to provide machine control * Programming for controllers (DDC/PLC)

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Application Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$109.7K

$150.7K

How much do controls application engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls application engineer in Virginia is $109,749.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $133,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Application Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control systems design, and programming, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and industry-standard automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation if applicable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These capabilities ensure the development and implementation of reliable automation solutions that meet project requirements and support operational efficiency.

How does a Controls Application Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Controls Application Engineers frequently work alongside cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and field technicians. Collaboration often involves translating project requirements into control system designs, integrating hardware and software components, and troubleshooting issues during commissioning. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as you will need to ensure all technical aspects align with broader project goals and client expectations. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, providing opportunities to address challenges and refine solutions together.

What are Controls Application Engineers?

Controls Application Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for machinery, equipment, or industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming controllers (like PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineers to integrate controls with mechanical and electrical components. They play a critical role in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, energy, and building automation.

What is the difference between Controls Application Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Application EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonBachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and testing control systems; often customer-facingDeveloping, testing, and maintaining control systems; primarily in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in automation, manufacturing, and process industriesCommon in industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing sectors

Controls Application Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems for specific applications, often working directly with clients. Controls Engineers typically develop, test, and maintain control systems within manufacturing environments. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Controls Application Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Controls Application Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Controls Application Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Controls Application Engineer job openings:
Electrical Controls Engineer

Electrical Controls Engineer

Accelevation LLC

Sterling, VA

$79.50K - $106.30K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Accelevation rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Electrical Controls Engineer
Location: Sterling, VA - On Site

About Accelevation
We build what the future runs on. Accelevation designs, manufactures, and installs the physical infrastructure that powers today’s most advanced technologies. We’ve grown over 440% in the last 18 months because we take ownership, solve hard problems, and build with purpose. Join us to build the future.
Your Impact
As an Electrical Controls Engineer, you will design, implement, and support industrial automation and control systems that power our switchgear and switchboard solutions. Your expertise in PLC programming, HMI development, and system integration will directly support manufacturing operations and field installations. You’ll play a critical role in delivering reliable, high-performance control systems that meet industry standards and drive operational excellence.
Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and implement control systems for industrial equipment and switchgear/switchboard applications
  • Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent platforms)
  • Develop, configure, and maintain HMI and SCADA applications
  • Perform system integration, testing, commissioning, and startup support
  • Create and maintain electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and technical documentation
  • Diagnose and resolve control system issues to minimize downtime
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and production teams
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies
  • Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance personnel
  • Travel as needed for commissioning and on-site support

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
  • 4+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems, including switchgear and/or switchboard applications
  • Strong proficiency in PLC programming
  • Experience developing HMI interfaces and SCADA systems
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, etc.)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P amp;IDs
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience with switchgear and switchboard control systems
  • Knowledge of BMS/BAS systems
  • Familiarity with industrial networking and cybersecurity principles
  • Experience with system validation and documentation standards
  • Willingness to travel for project commissioning and site support

Core Competencies
  • Safety: Proactively fosters a culture of safety in our work environment
  • Inclusion: Appreciates and respects individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, and values
  • Speed: Operates with urgency, recognizing the advantage of being swift and responsive
  • Innovation: Continuously seeks to simplify and improve processes and designs
  • Judgment: Exercises discretion and autonomy in solving technical challenges
  • Accountability: Holds self and others to high standards of performance and quality

Benefits
  • Competitive salary and performance bonus
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Collaborative, high-energy workplace

Job Application Notice
Accelevation LLC does not ask for payment or sensitive personal details, such as bank account or Social Security numbers, during the job application process.
If you're unsure about a job posting, apply directly at https://www.accelevation.com to stay safe.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Accelevation LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Inclusion is one of our core values — we appreciate and respect individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, values, and cultures. We enthusiastically build teams that celebrate and embrace the contributions of everyone, fostering an environment of welcome and respect for all.
As part of our pre-hire process, we may conduct a background check. We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.