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Controls Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Controls Systems Technician

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.93 - $32.89/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon ...

Controls Systems Technician

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.93 - $32.89/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon ...

Controls Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

CEC Controls is currently seeking a Controls Engineer to join our team in the Chesapeake, VA office. The Controls Engineers are given the opportunity to work on projects from the initial planning ...

Be Seen First

Chesapeake Controls is a leading provider of cutting-edge building automation solutions. With a strong commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, we specialize in providing building ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$33

$48

How much do controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls in Virginia is $33.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.61 and $37.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are controls?

In a company, 'Controls' refer to the systems, procedures, and policies put in place to ensure the organization's operations are efficient, compliant, and secure. These controls help manage risks by preventing errors, fraud, and data breaches, and they ensure that the company adheres to laws and regulations. Controls can be financial, operational, or IT-related, and are an essential part of corporate governance and risk management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial automation software, along with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining efficient, safe, and reliable automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in controls engineering, and how can they be addressed?

Controls engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, troubleshooting complex control loops, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. These challenges can be managed by staying updated with industry trends, using simulation tools to test solutions before implementation, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams like electrical and mechanical engineers. Regular training and proactive communication with stakeholders also help in addressing issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Controls vs Electrical Technician?

AspectControlsElectrical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in controls, automation, or electrical engineeringUsually holds an electrical trade certification or diploma
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly on automation systems, PLCs, and control panelsWorks on electrical wiring, installations, and maintenance of electrical systems
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process industriesFound across construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors
Job FocusDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systemsElectrical installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical equipment

Controls specialists focus on automation and control systems, including programming and troubleshooting PLCs, while Electrical Technicians handle electrical wiring, installations, and maintenance. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in their specific tasks and work environments.

Is controls engineering a good career?

Controls engineering is a stable and growing field that involves designing and maintaining automated systems using skills in electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. It often requires knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and control theory, with opportunities in manufacturing, energy, and automation industries. The career can offer competitive salaries and advancement potential for those with technical expertise and relevant certifications.

What is a job in controls?

A controls job involves designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting systems that regulate machinery, processes, or automation equipment. It often requires knowledge of control systems, programming, and tools like PLCs or SCADA, and may involve working in manufacturing, energy, or industrial environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Controls jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Controls jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Controls job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,056 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Controls Systems Technician

Johnson Controls

Rockville, VA • On-site

$22 - $31/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 416 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.


For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.

What you will do
Under general supervision, performs installation and checkout on a variety of systems utilizing codes, company procedures, engineering drawings and personal analysis. Works with "Prime" electrical contractors as required. Develops a positive interface with the customer to ensure confidence and satisfaction with the system installation.

How you will do it

  • Installs raceways, cables and wiring to meet local or national codes, standards and customer system requirements. Lays out electrical controls installation to provide lowest total installed cost.

  • Mounts and terminates controls equipment as needed.

  • May assist sales with electrical estimates, including walking retrofit projects.

  • Determines and validates final termination points to equipment interfaced with the installed system (i.e. chillers, boilers, roof top units, etc.).

  • Checks out wiring and terminations of field-installed equipment with test instruments as needed (i.e. volt meters, hand held testers, etc.).

  • Keeps management informed of job needs, progress and issues.

  • Completes paperwork, including but not limited to time sheets, expense reports, and on-site documentation. Provides feedback to JCI Engineering on changes and keeps as-built drawings current.

  • Resolve job site conflicts regarding installation issues or escalates concerns to management as required.

  • Communicates with the customer as necessary upon arrival and before leaving the work site.

  • Adheres to Johnson Controls safety programs and policies.

  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

What we look for
Required

  • Electrical apprenticeship or formal training in electrical installation techniques.

  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret drawings.

  • Possesses working knowledge of local codes as it applies to controls.

  • Experienced in scope determination of installation materials.Able to work independently.

Preferred

  • Four years' experience directly with controls installations.

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $22-$31 (Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience,knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with marketdata.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflectsthe target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidatesmay bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe yourbackground warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. Tosupport an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, includingartificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions areultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on theJohnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us

Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.


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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US