ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Controls Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ControlsJobs

BAS - Controls Programmer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$32 - $42.25/hr

Controls Programmer -Alexandria, Virginia - Controls-Only Company POSITION: * Senior Controls Programmer/PM LOCATION: * Alexandria, Virginia RESPONSIBILITIES: * Extensive experience as a Senior ...

Dorsett Controls

Automation Engineer

Vinton, VA

$100K - $130K/yr

Engineering Reports To: Project Manager FLSA Status: Salary Exempt Who We Are Dorsett Controls is a leading provider of innovative automation solutions, specializing in custom control systems and ...

Fluence

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA

$52 - $66.50/hr

Controls, UI, and the Data Acquisition System. You will report to the Senior Manager Control ... Support requisition engineering. Troubleshoot field issues and identify root causes. * Focus on ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineering JobsControls Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Controls Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do controls engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineering in Virginia is $95,745.00, 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 is controls engineering?

Controls engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on designing, developing, and implementing systems that manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. Controls engineers use principles from electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering to automate processes, improve efficiency, and ensure safety in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Their work often involves programming controllers, designing feedback systems, and integrating sensors and actuators to achieve precise control over machinery and processes.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Controls engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within engineering fields. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership positions in large corporations may approach high six-figure incomes, but reaching $500,000 is rare for controls engineering professionals alone.

What 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 software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often requiring knowledge of electrical engineering and programming. Controls engineers typically analyze system performance, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements to optimize operations.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized 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 years of expertise and a strong technical background in automation systems and control theory.

How does a Controls Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Controls Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of automated systems. They are responsible for developing and implementing control strategies that meet project specifications, which often involves coordinating with design, installation, and commissioning teams. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Controls Engineers must align their solutions with the overall project goals and troubleshoot cross-disciplinary issues that arise during development and testing phases.

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, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

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. Salaries can increase with specialized skills in automation, PLC programming, and certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST).
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Controls Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Controls Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineering job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,745 per year, or $46 per hour.

BAS - Controls Programmer

ControlsJobs

Alexandria, VA • Hybrid

$32 - $42.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Controls Programmer -Alexandria, Virginia - Controls-Only Company
POSITION:
  • Senior Controls Programmer/PM
LOCATION:
  • Alexandria, Virginia
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Extensive experience as a Senior Controls Programmer/Controls PM Hybrid
  • Programming Honeywell (Spyder), JCI FX(Tridium), Tridium N4, Vykon, BACnet.
  • Create Controls Applications from Scratch
  • Create Databases
  • Change Orders, Manage Project Scopes, Forecasting, Budgeting, managing installs
  • Interface with customers
  • Coordinate with Field Staff
  • Visits Projects to make sure they are going well.
  • Managerial Experience
  • Extensive knowledge and solid understanding of mechanical systems.
  • 50% in the field, 50% in the office
COMPANY INFO:
  • Founded in 1989.
  • 25 Employees, 5-7 for Controls Team.
  • Clients include: Commercial, Government, Hotel Management, Property Management Groups.
  • Both Owner Direct and Plan & Spec, Design Build.
  • Retrofit is main service.
  • Work/Services:
    • Professional Mechanical Solutions: Preventative Maintenance, Service, Construction.
    • Professional Controls Solutions: Installation, Pneumatic Retrofit, Service, Monitoring/Preventative Maintenance.
OFFERED
  • Competitive Compensation
  • 401K with Match
  • Excellent Benefits: Medical (100%), Dental Vision
  • Vacation & Holiday

Apply