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Controls Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA

$82K - $106K/yr

Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to develop innovative ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or ...

Controls Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related technical discipline. * Minimum of 5 years of experience designing and programming industrial ...

Automation Engineer

Vinton, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Controls Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do controls engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer?

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 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.

How much do controls engineers get paid?

Controls 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.

Is controls engineering a good career?

Controls engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often requiring knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and programming languages like ladder logic. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors with competitive salaries and demand for skilled professionals. Career growth can involve certifications and continuous learning in evolving technologies.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Proficiency in technical drawing, troubleshooting, and industry standards is essential for this role.
Infographic showing various Controls Engineering job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,745 per year, or $46 per hour.

2027 Summer Internship Program - Controls Engineering

Winchester, VA • On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Trex Company, the world's number one decking and railing brand, and leader in high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products, is seeking a Controls Engineering Intern to take part in our summer internship program. As an Engineering Intern you will work in an industrial environment, and you must be able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Interns should be comfortable using a computer and expect to interact with Trex engineers and production operations personnel.
  • Controls Engineering Interns will complete PLC, SCADA and Historian work with plant control systems, data acquisition, analysis and reporting, and assist engineers with other routine tasks.

Requirements:
Applicants must be currently enrolled in a 4-year accredited degree program in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science and Engineering, or a related field. The ideal candidate needs to have a strong attention to detail and the ability to work under tight deadlines. This person should be consistently focused on improving Trex's business needs.
  • Must be a rising Junior or Senior
  • Must have at least a 3.0 GPA
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship
  • Must be able to work on-site full time at our Winchester VA location

WHO WE ARE
Over 30 years ago, our founders created the world's first high-performance, low-maintenance composite decking and outdoor living products. That entrepreneurial spirit still drives us today as we continue to redefine our industry and lead the way for what's next in outdoor living. Today, Trex is the world's #1 brand of sustainably made, wood-alternative decking and deck railing - all proudly manufactured in the U.S.A. As a publicly traded company [NYSE: TREX], we take pride in being the largest recycler of plastic film in the country and caring for the communities and the planet where we live. We nurture meaningful connections, from local engagement and investment to eco-friendly products and sustainable manufacturing processes.
At Trex, you'll become part of a diverse yet unified team who sustain the trailblazing spirit and strengths that made Trex the industry leader-learning, adapting, solving and succeeding. We welcome new ideas and fresh perspectives, and we encourage you to bring your best to help us shape the future of Trex.
Being a leader means persevering even when there's not a road map; embracing groundbreaking as a way of life. We encourage multiple perspectives and welcome diverse people who problem-solve, adapt and innovate-always with a firm foundation in safety and integrity.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT
At Trex, you can take pride in craftsmanship. There's an art and a science to what we do, and we never stop working to refine and improve. That means no matter how long you've been with Trex, you have ongoing opportunities to grow your expertise-enhancing your career, your team, and our shared efforts. You will help shape our future.
EEO
Trex is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these or any other characteristics protected by law.
E-VERIFY
Trex participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all hired employees. E-Verify is a web-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of their employees. For more information, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.