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Electrical And Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, VA - On Site About Accelevation We build what the future runs on. Accelevation designs, manufactures, and installs the physical infrastructure that ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA

$79K - $106K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, VA - On Site About Accelevation We build what the future runs on. Accelevation designs, manufactures, and installs the physical infrastructure that ...

Controls Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$58.25 - $86.50/hr

The role is particularly suited to individuals passionate about advancing in the field of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, specifically within motor controls and power conversion subsystems.

Controls Engineer Staff

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

The Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex ... Has thorough understanding of advanced electrical, fire protection, and HVAC systems operation ...

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $112K/yr

... Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred. Experience Three to five years' experience in ... and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP ...

Controls Engineer

Columbia, MD · Hybrid

$82K - $107K/yr

... Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred. Experience Three to five years' experience in ... and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP ...

Controls Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

... Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred. Experience Three to five years' experience in ... and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP ...

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

... Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred. Experience Three to five years' experience in ... and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP ...

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Showing results 1-20

Electrical And Controls Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$48.7K

$106.4K

$147.8K

How much do electrical and controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical and controls engineer in Washington is $106,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Electrical And Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectElectrical And Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CertificationsPE license, control system certificationsPE license, electrical design certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial automation, control systems, manufacturingPower systems, circuit design, electrical infrastructure
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, construction, electrical design

The main difference is that Electrical And Controls Engineers focus on designing and maintaining control systems and automation processes, while Electrical Engineers work on power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different industry needs and environments.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical and controls engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually, primarily through senior roles, management positions, or consulting work in specialized industries such as power systems, aerospace, or automation. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in high-demand areas, along with working in regions or companies that offer top-tier compensation packages.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities tend to have the highest compensation levels.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Electrical and Controls Engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in industries like aerospace, energy, or manufacturing. High salaries often require specialized skills in automation, control systems, or project management, along with a strong understanding of industry standards and tools such as PLCs and SCADA systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical and Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical and Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and design software like AutoCAD or EPLAN, as well as certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers excel in project coordination and troubleshooting. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex industrial systems.

What are Electrical and Controls Engineers?

Electrical and Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain electrical systems and control systems for machinery, manufacturing processes, or large-scale infrastructure. Their work involves creating schematics, selecting appropriate hardware, programming control logic (such as PLCs), and troubleshooting system issues to ensure efficient and safe operation. They often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to implement automation solutions and optimize system performance. This role is essential in industries like manufacturing, energy, automotive, and building automation.

What are some common challenges Electrical and Controls Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Electrical and Controls Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, process, and software engineers to design and implement automated systems. A key challenge is ensuring seamless integration between electrical control systems and other engineering disciplines, which requires clear communication and thorough documentation. Managing overlapping timelines, adapting to changing project requirements, and troubleshooting complex system interactions are also frequent hurdles. Building strong relationships with team members and staying proactive in resolving issues can help ensure project success.

What does an electrical controls engineer do?

An electrical controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and electrical schematics to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with other engineering disciplines and using CAD software. Certification in control system standards and knowledge of electrical codes are also important in this role.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Electrical And Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Electrical And Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Electrical And Controls Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,420 per year, or $51.2 per hour.
Electrical Controls Engineer

Electrical Controls Engineer

Accelevation LLC

Sterling, VA • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Accelevation rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Electrical Controls Engineer
Location: Sterling, VA - On Site

About Accelevation
We build what the future runs on. Accelevation designs, manufactures, and installs the physical infrastructure that powers today's most advanced technologies. We've grown over 440% in the last 18 months because we take ownership, solve hard problems, and build with purpose. Join us to build the future.
Your Impact
As an Electrical Controls Engineer, you will design, implement, and support industrial automation and control systems that power our switchgear and switchboard solutions. Your expertise in PLC programming, HMI development, and system integration will directly support manufacturing operations and field installations. You'll play a critical role in delivering reliable, high-performance control systems that meet industry standards and drive operational excellence.
Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and implement control systems for industrial equipment and switchgear/switchboard applications
  • Program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent platforms)
  • Develop, configure, and maintain HMI and SCADA applications
  • Perform system integration, testing, commissioning, and startup support
  • Create and maintain electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and technical documentation
  • Diagnose and resolve control system issues to minimize downtime
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and production teams
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies
  • Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance personnel
  • Travel as needed for commissioning and on-site support

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
  • 2+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems, including switchgear and/or switchboard applications
  • Strong proficiency in PLC programming
  • Experience developing HMI interfaces and SCADA systems
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, etc.)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience with switchgear and switchboard control systems
  • Knowledge of BMS/BAS systems
  • Familiarity with industrial networking and cybersecurity principles
  • Experience with system validation and documentation standards
  • Willingness to travel for project commissioning and site support

Core Competencies
  • Safety: Proactively fosters a culture of safety in our work environment
  • Inclusion: Appreciates and respects individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, and values
  • Speed: Operates with urgency, recognizing the advantage of being swift and responsive
  • Innovation: Continuously seeks to simplify and improve processes and designs
  • Judgment: Exercises discretion and autonomy in solving technical challenges
  • Accountability: Holds self and others to high standards of performance and quality

Benefits
  • Competitive salary and performance bonus
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Collaborative, high-energy workplace

Job Application Notice
Accelevation LLC does not ask for payment or sensitive personal details, such as bank account or Social Security numbers, during the job application process.
If you're unsure about a job posting, apply directly at https://www.accelevation.com to stay safe.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Accelevation LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Inclusion is one of our core values - we appreciate and respect individuals from diverse backgrounds, identities, values, and cultures. We enthusiastically build teams that celebrate and embrace the contributions of everyone, fostering an environment of welcome and respect for all.
As part of our pre-hire process, we may conduct a background check. We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

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