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Controls Engineer Jobs in Charlottesville, VA (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Charlottesville, VA ยท On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

You belong at SEH SEH is currenting searching for a Controls Engineer to join our talented Mechanical/Electrical team! Why our employee-owners love SEH: * "I was on vacation last week and had zero ...

Degree in Project Management, Engineering, Construction, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience). * APM Planning and Project Controls (PPC) Foundation and Practitioner certification (or ...

Senior Controls Technician

Waynesboro, VA ยท On-site

$41.38 - $51.49/hr

Responsible for commissioning, programming, setting up graphics, communications link, end to end ... Typically requires at least 7 years of experience in HVAC/Controls. Technical School or formal ...

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Controls Engineer information

See Charlottesville, VA salary details

$54.6K

$95.8K

$130K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Charlottesville, VA is $95,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA? For Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:
What cities near Charlottesville, VA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Charlottesville, VA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Charlottesville, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,807 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Sehinc

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Imagine being an employee-owner of a company guided by engaged and empowered team members like yourself. Where a culture of respect, flexibility, and accountability aren't just ideals - they're our foundation, and diverse backgrounds and perspectives are valued as drivers of innovation and growth. Join us, as together, we are Building a Better World for All of Us.

You belong at SEHSEH is currenting searching for a Controls Engineer to join our talented Mechanical/Electrical team!

Why our employee-owners love SEH:

  • "I was on vacation last week and had zero concerns that my colleagues would help out with anything that came into my inbox!" - GIS Analyst

  • "What company has a CEO who cares enough to seek out one-on-one conversations ranging from 'How are you?' to 'What do you think would help the company?' SEH, that's who. " - Civil Engineering Technician

  • "Having the feeling that my voice matters and believing that SEH truly cares about the employees is so satisfying!" - Sr Financial Analyst

  • "It feels good having colleagues and supervisors that provide support and resources for growth and learning!" - Civil Engineer

  • "This is the first company I've worked for with a true entrepreneurial spirit." - Sr Mechanical Engineer

Why you'll love SEH:

  • Collaborate on amazing projects of varying size and complexity that positively impact communities

  • Being 100% employee-owned means we all share in the company's success

  • Career development through continued education, licensure/certification, skills, and technical training

  • Work arrangements that promote work/life balance

  • Flexible holidays enable individuals to tailor their festivities

  • Paid Family Leave provides time to care for loved ones, whether family by birth or family by choice

This Opportunity:

  • This remote position can be located in the Charlottesville, VA area, or surrounding areas or Remote in Minnesota. This opportunity is also open to candidates wanting to work Hybrid residing in the following areas: St Paul, MN, Duluth, MN, Minnetonka, MN, Mankato, MN, Rochester, MN, Brainerd, MN, or Hudson, WI.

  • Work with clients to assess plant control systems and develop the project approach.

  • Prepare project design/bidding documents including P&ID drawings, system network drawings, controls specifications, process narratives, and software and hardware selection.

  • Program PLCs, OITs and SCADA systems, tune processes for proper operation, and work with clients on the implementation of process control narratives.

  • Work directly with plant staff to implement new control strategies in existing systems to improve plant performance, and to incorporate new processes and instruments into the control system programming.

  • Team with outside integration companies to support overall project goals.

  • Manage project deliverables for client expectations.

  • Work directly with clients to diagnose and correct system faults, process control issues, and programming issues..

  • Preform Commissioning activities as directed

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics or related from an accredited college.

  • Technical experience in preparing design documents for bidding and supporting construction administration services.

  • PLC ladder logic programming, tag development, HMI/OIT system development.

  • Knowledge of process controls system commissioning and controls system commissioning.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Ability to work alone and with a team of professionals and clients.

  • Ability to travel as needed for team meetings, client consultations, on-site project visits, control system startups, and onsite support.

  • GE/Emmerson PME PLC programming experience is required

  • GE/Emmerson Cimplicty programming experience is required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with Ignition (with Gold Certification).

  • 5 to 15 years professional experience.

  • Licensed Professional Engineer, or ability to become licensed.

  • Experience with water and wastewater utilities

  • Project management experience, or interest in learning


Who We Are

Better Places. Clean Water. Renewing Infrastructure. Improving Mobility. SEH is an employee-owned engineering, architectural, planning, and environmental company, offering a wide variety of services. We've been helping government, industrial, and commercial clients find solutions to complex challenges since 1927. Our 900+ employee-owners across the US unite behind our core purpose of Building a Better World for All of Us.

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $90,000 and $125,000 based on skill set and experience. Check out our full benefits package at SEH Hiring Journey.

Due to current business and operational considerations, unable to hire employees residing in the following states at this time: AK, AR, CA, CT, DE, HI, KY, MA, RI, VT, and PR.Candidates willing to relocate should indicate this in their application.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.

SEH is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We take affirmative action to ensure that all employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Notice to Third Party Agencies: SEH does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by SEH's Talent Director, SEH reserves the right to pursue and hire these candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.

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