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Controls Engineer Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... engineering, program and construction management, project controls, and technology services for ... Oversee, direct, and review the work of Inspectors and Inspector Trainees. * Maintain comprehensive ...

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Controls Engineer Trainee information

How to become a controls engineer trainee with no experience?

To become a controls engineer trainee with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge in electrical or mechanical systems through online courses or certifications, such as PLC programming or automation fundamentals. Internships, entry-level technician roles, or apprenticeships can provide practical experience, and developing skills in tools like AutoCAD or SCADA software can improve employability.

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

AspectControls Engineer TraineeControls Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certifications, on-the-job trainingBachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, entry-level projects, supervised settingsDesign, develop, and maintain control systems in industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation companies, entry-level rolesIndustrial automation, manufacturing, process control

The Controls Engineer Trainee role is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining practical experience, often requiring less formal education. In contrast, a Controls Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for designing and maintaining control systems. The trainee position serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a Controls Engineer, with the main differences being experience level and responsibilities.

Is there a shortage of controls engineers?

Controls engineers are in high demand due to the increasing need for automation and control systems across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and robotics. The field often experiences a skills gap, with employers seeking candidates skilled in PLC programming, HMI development, and control system design, leading to job opportunities for trainees and experienced professionals alike.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Controls Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Controls Engineer Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Inspector - Virginia Beach

Alpha Corporation

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Alpha Corporation established in 1979, is a full-service woman-owned firm, providing civil, and structural engineering, program and construction management, project controls, and technology services for various building types, transportation, and heavy infrastructure projects. We provide services to a broad spectrum of clients, including all levels of government agencies, public and private enterprises/partnerships.
Alpha has been performing civil engineering design services since the firm's inception. Our vision is to be recognized by our clients for responsive, innovative, and quality services in the building, transportation, and infrastructure sectors, and to be the employer of choice. Alpha was awarded the ENR Mid-Atlantic 2022 Design Firm of the Year and Top 100 PM/CM firm.
If you're up for the challenge to stretch, grow and excel in your career as an Inspector, consider joining our award-winning team at Alpha Corporation to support our growing team in our Virginia Beach office.
Alpha Corporation offers excellent career opportunities for continued professional, educational, and personal growth. We strive to offer our employees the opportunity to work on diverse and exciting projects in a collaborative team environment. All positions include a competitive benefits package and the opportunity for a stable and rewarding career.
Position Summary
The Inspector will be responsible for ensuring contractors' compliance by reviewing interpreting and enforcing plans and contract documents for efficient and timely inspection of the contractor's work.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Independently plan, coordinate, inspect, and oversee project inspection activities of roadway, structure, and bridge, maintenance projects.
  • Monitor contractors and schedules to ensure quality control and contract compliance of moderate to complex construction projects.
  • Apply knowledge and experience toward the inspection of roadways and bridges using VDOT standards, specifications, and procedures.
  • Apply engineering principles in the inspection and documentation of construction activities.
  • Recommend changes to construction plans to meet field conditions or provide cost savings.
  • Review and monitor EEO/DBE documentation and compliance with contract documents.
  • Oversee, direct, and review the work of Inspectors and Inspector Trainees.
  • Maintain comprehensive project records and documentation using the VDOT Materials Book & project management software which could include VDOT Site Manager.
  • Complete testing of materials using VDOT testing procedures
  • Apply Best Management Practices to environmental inspection activities using DEQ standards and specifications.
  • Apply Best Management Practices to safety activities.
  • Communicate with various stakeholders including Localities and VDOT.
  • Assist with the development of change orders, investigations, and the analysis of Notices of Intent to File Claims.

Required Skills / Abilities
  • Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record.
  • Must be able and willing to workday and night shifts.
  • Able to pass a criminal background check.

Education and/or Experience
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • 3 + years' experience in roadway or bridge construction inspection.
  • Experience operating computer equipment, software programs including Microsoft Office Suite, and field-testing equipment.

Certifications / Licenses
  • Must be current with the following certifications or the ability to obtain:
    • Pavement Marking - VDOT
    • Intermediate Work Zone - VDOT
    • Flagger - VDOT
    • Guardrail Installation (GRIT) - VDOT
    • Asphalt Field Levels I and II - VDOT
    • 10-hour OSHA Safety

Salary: $60k - $85k
Physical Demands
The incumbent in this position can typically expect to sit and use his/her hands to handle and feel for more than 1/3 of the day. He/she can expect to stand or walk for more than 2/3 of the day. Talking and listening are also expected for more than 1/3 of the day. The ability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or reach with arms will be needed for more than 1/3 of the day.
This position requires that the incumbent be able to lift items up to 80 pounds on an infrequent basis.
The incumbent in this position should have clear vision at 20 inches or less. He/she should be able to view various reports and forms as well as information displayed on a computer monitor and have the ability to distinguish between different colors. Depth perception, peripheral vision, the ability to focus, and the ability to see from a distance are also necessary.
EEO Statement
Alpha Corporation is an equal-opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability or military status, or any other protected class. This policy shall apply to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, upgrading, promotions, transfer, demotion, layoff, recall, termination, rates of pay, or other forms of compensation and selection for training, including apprenticeship, at all levels of employment.