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Controls Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$52 - $66.50/hr

Role Overview We are looking for a Principal Controls Software Engineer with a passion for software design and extensive experience with power engineering, MathWorks Matlab/Simulink, Agile Scrum ...

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

About the Role We seek a Project Controls Engineer to provide scheduling support services to our valued clients. This position will work with a team of professionals, including client project ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA

$99K - $131K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

The Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and implementation of policies and ...

Provide project controls support to project teams. * Assist in the development and maintenance of ... Basic understanding of engineering documents and derive quantities from them. * Basic software ...

Provide project controls support to project teams. * Assist in the development and maintenance of ... Basic understanding of engineering documents and derive quantities from them. * Basic software ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$57.2K

$100.5K

$136.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Reston, VA is $100,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or stock options, and typically requires advanced knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages like Python or C++.

What Is a Controls Engineer?

Controls engineers design, develop, and test automated or dynamic systems that are controlled through feedback with sensors or detectors. Examples include automated irrigation systems that can sense moisture levels in soil, or self-driving cars that can navigate congested streets. Controls engineers apply control theory to devices, machines, and processes to attain desired outcomes. They can work on everything from boilers, washing machines, or light switches to complex industrial machinery.

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 exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators to ensure machinery operates efficiently and safely, often using engineering software and adhering to safety standards. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and optimizing control processes to improve performance.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $110,000. Salaries often increase with proficiency in PLC programming, automation systems, and relevant software tools.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Senior-level engineers often have 10+ years of experience and expertise in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration.

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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,471 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Sr. Controls Engineer

Sr. Controls Engineer

Amazon

Herndon, VA • On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,959 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

As part of the global controls team, you will work with highly motivated experts and innovators in the data center industry. You will be responsible for troubleshooting, project management, and maintaining the building management system (BMS) and electrical power monitoring system (EPMS). Using Amazon leadership principles, you will develop new processes and standards while innovating in the controls space. AWS Data centers have multiple components such as generators, uninterruptable power sources, diesel generators, electrical switchgear, power distribution units, variable frequency drives, automatic/static transfer switches, chillers [air-cooled and water-cooled], pumps, cooling towers, heat exchangers, CRAHs, air economizers, etc. All these components have local control systems that interact with each other via open and/or proprietary communications protocols. The BMS is the primary method of control of all mechanical systems within a data center. The EPMS is the primary method of monitoring all electrical systems within a data center.
This position requires that the candidate selected be a US citizen. The position provides the opportunity to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance with after hire if eligible.
Key job responsibilities
Train and assist internal customers and stakeholders with the creation, design, configuration, validation, installation, commissioning and operation of BMS and EPMS systems.
Provide technical assistance and support to operations during life cycle of the data center. • Review results and action items from the quarterly maintenances for BMS and EPMS and take actions to get them resolved.
Develop BMS & EPMS projects scope of work, schedule, budget, and level of efforts (LOE) to projects requested by customers and stakeholders.
Manage scope, schedule, finance and execution of BMS and EPMS improvement projects in AWS data centers.
Assist in procurement related activities including request for quotation/proposals, responding to request for information, review of vendors proposal and issuance of purchase orders.
Participate in AWS global on-call schedule to provide immediate BMS and EPMS technical support to in-service data centers. • Attend project related meetings, coordinate with project leaders and regularly report status to Controls and stakeholders management.
Support Controls projects related commissioning activities in the data centers.
Review, implement, troubleshoot and iterate on the controls sequence of operation (SOO) and provide necessary feedback to the design team.
Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces.
Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations.
Financially manage BMS and EPMS service contracts.
Frequently visit (locally) assigned in-operation data centers to troubleshoot, meet customers, supervise vendor's work to ensure compliance with the scope, design, SOO and applicable local codes.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in construction of data center delivery (design, commissioning and construction), mission critical facilities, or equivalent industrial/manufacturing facility builds
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field plus 10+ years of relevant controls experience, OR 15+ years of relevant controls experience in lieu of a degree.
- 10+ years of experience with industrial controls in critical environment (data center, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, oil & gas, petrochemical, laboratory, power, water etc.).
- 9+ years of general project or vendor management experience (request for proposals, bidding, change orders, quality control, and RFI and submittal tracking) associated with construction and project execution.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience constructing electrical engineering systems including large scale power distribution/generation gear and mechanical engineering systems including cooling systems
- Experience designing, configuring, programming, installing, troubleshooting or servicing HVAC Controls or Electrical SCADA systems application specific controllers, software and networks.
- Experiencing using common industrial communication protocols (MQTT, BACnet and/or MODBUS).
- Demonstrated understanding of engineering documentation, electrical and mechanical diagrams, and standard operating procedures.
- Ability to manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements, and navigate difficult situations.
- Experience designing data centers or critical MEP infrastructure
- Registered as a Professional Engineer (PE), or certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
- Prior AWS/Amazon experience
- 4+ Yr. Military Service
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you're applying in isn't listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, VA, Herndon - 139,300.00 - 208,000.00 USD annually

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About Amazon

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Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US