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Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

BNH

Controls Engineer

Hillandale, MD · On-site

$90 - $122/hr

Controls Engineer Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: O - Engineering Function/Branch: Engineering/ Tunnel 9 Directorate: Test Operations Position Type: Regular, Full Time Pay Type: Exempt ...

Complete Logistical Services

Controls Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$58.25 - $86.50/hr

Controls Engineer at Complete Logistical Services Complete Logistical Services is excited to announce a job opening for a dedicated and skilled Controls Engineer. This full-time position offers the ...

BNH

Controls Engineer

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$94K - $122K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: O - Engineering Function/Branch: Engineering/ Tunnel 9 Directorate: Test Operations Position Type: Regular, Full Time Pay Type: Exempt ...

BNH

Controls Engineer

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$94K - $122K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: O - Engineering Function/Branch: Engineering/ Tunnel 9 Directorate: Test Operations Position Type: Regular, Full Time Pay Type: Exempt ...

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up ...

Paper Converting Machine

Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be part of a committed team of over 1500 professionals, and work in teams and directly with our clients doing ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be part of a committed team of over 1500 professionals, and work in teams and directly with our clients doing ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Mclean, VA

$84K - $109K/yr

Controls Engineer | Onsite in Tysons, VA | Pay: 125k - 187k/yr | Permanent Position This role focuses on the design, programming, integration, and commissioning of advanced control and automation ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $112K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up ...

Tract Capital

Senior Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

The Tract Capital Senior Controls Engineer owns controls discipline design for our behind-the-meter (BTM) generation solutions and integration into Tract's monitoring and command center operations.

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Controls Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$62.3K

$109.3K

$148.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Washington, DC is $109,339.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $122,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,339 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer

BNH

Hillandale, MD • On-site

$90 - $122/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Controls Engineer

Location: White Oak, MD

Job Family Code: O - Engineering

Function/Branch: Engineering/Tunnel 9

Directorate: Test Operations

Position Type: Regular, Full Time

Pay Type: Exempt

Sponsorship: Position Not Sponsored

Grade: M06 (OB0606) - M07 (OB0705)

Salary Range: M06: $90,000 - $108,000; M07: $94,000 - $122,000 / year

Overview

Open to External candidates. Beyond New Horizons, LLC (BNH) has an exciting opportunity for a Controls Engineer, supporting TOS II, at AEDC Tunnel 9 in Silver Spring, Maryland. The Controls Engineer will be working as a member of an integrated team responsible for operating and maintaining the United States Air Force Test Operations and Sustainment efforts.

Job Summary

The Controls Engineer is responsible for sustainment and maintenance of the electrical machinery and control systems required to achieve reliable wind tunnel facility operations.

Job Duties

Specific tasks associated with this type of work include but are not limited to:

  • Provide facility pressure/temperature measurement, flow/valve controls, process controls, and electrical distribution with a safety focus.
  • Responsible for long-term reliability, availability, and maintainability of the assigned facility control systems.
  • Act as technical point of contact for facility electrical and controls engineering issues.
  • Ensure proper development of requirements, schedules, budget estimates and statements of work for facility repair and refurbishment projects.
  • Perform system analyses, track system reliability, availability, and cost parameters as well as maintaining system records and configuration management and control.
  • Maintain/upgrade control systems utilizing LabView, National Instruments hardware (cDAQ, cRIO, PXI) and PLC programming.
  • Work closely with technicians and electricians in the field and in a hands-on setting to predict performance, diagnosis, and troubleshooting problems. May require working in cramped or confined spaces on occasion.
  • Conduct and write up system safety hazard analyses and write clear work instructions.
  • It is a condition of employment to wear company issued PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) in accordance with supervisory direction and company policy.
  • Perform other related duties as required.
Basic Qualifications
  • S. degree in engineering or mechatronics from a regionally accredited college or university.
  • M07: Minimum of 2 years of engineering experience.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance and the AEDC local area network
  • Current US Citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Relevant electrical engineering experience troubleshooting, diagnosing, testing and measuring systems, field engineering, or plant operation in large industrial plants, utilities, process plants, etc.
  • Demonstrated skill in oral and written communication
What We Offer
  • Competitive salaries
  • Continuing education assistance
  • Multiple healthcare benefits packages
  • 401K with employer matching
  • Paid time off (PTO) along with a federally recognized holiday schedule
Who We Are

Beyond New Horizons (BNH) is a fully populated joint venture of Astrion and Fluor Federal Services, Inc. formed to provide unmatched Test Operations and Sustainment services for the Arnold Engineering and Development Complex.

We chose our name to serve as an enduring reminder of our commitment to AEDC's rich aerospace research and development legacy anchored in AEDC's Towards New Horizons founding study and the unprecedented opportunities to greatly expand AEDC's capabilities and capacity Beyond those existing today. Leveraging the capabilities of our parent companies, BNH specializes in testing and evaluation for military and space systems combined with proven capability in large-scale Government program management, integration, engineering, and construction services for specialized and technically advanced high-hazard facilities.

Join our Team!

U.S. Citizenship is required. At this time BNH will not sponsor any applicants for employment authorization or offer

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