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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Electra

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Equinix

Controls Engineer Staff

Ashburn, VA · Remote

The Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and implementation of policies and ...

New

Barry-Wehmiller

Controls Engineer - Data Centers

Sterling, VA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer, Data Center 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 ...

X Energy LLC

Project Controls Engineer

Rockville, MD

Provide project controls support to project teams. * Assist in the development and maintenance of ... Basic understanding of engineering documents and derive quantities from them. * Basic software ...

X Energy LLC

Project Controls Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

Provide project controls support to project teams. * Assist in the development and maintenance of ... Basic understanding of engineering documents and derive quantities from them. * Basic software ...

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 ...

TAI

Senior Plant Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA

$120K - $175K/yr

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects, implement control system upgrades, and troubleshoot complex automation challenges across a diverse set ...

TAI

Senior Plant Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects, implement control system upgrades, and troubleshoot complex automation challenges across a diverse set ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

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 strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable automation solutions in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on automation projects?

Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues, and ensuring that all control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve technical problems efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this role.

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

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
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 EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, electronics, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities and areas of expertise differ.

What are Controls Engineers?

Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems used to control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with hardware and software to ensure automated systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Controls Engineers often program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), develop control algorithms, and troubleshoot automation issues. Their work is critical in optimizing production processes and integrating new technologies within industrial environments.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation and control systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles are often found in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, where complex systems and advanced technical expertise are required.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve leadership responsibilities, working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing, and may require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced control engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

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. Skills in troubleshooting, programming, and understanding system integration are essential in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Washington? For Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
Engineer Controls Engineer jobs near you
Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Principal Flight Controls Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About Electra
At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.
A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matter at this stage - and this role is no exception.
The Role
Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft. This role works in close partnership with the Flight Controls System IPT Lead, providing deep expertise in certification, safety, and verification to support system development from detailed design through certification and entry into service.
What You'll Do
  • Act as the flight controls certification focal for the EL9 program, owning the functional certification approach.
  • Lead development and maintenance of the flight controls functional certification plan.
  • Translate regulatory requirements and system safety assessments into certifiable flight control functions.
  • Provide technical oversight for verification planning and execution across: analysis and simulation, SIL/HIL, ground and flight test.
  • Partner with the Flight Controls IPT Lead to support system architecture decisions and assess certification impacts of design changes.
  • Support system safety activities, including FHA, PSSA, and SSA alignment.
  • Interface with certification authorities and support technical discussions, reviews, and issue resolution.
  • Mentor flight controls engineers in certification, verification, and systems thinking.
  • Coordinate across disciplines including systems engineering, safety, software, propulsion, and flight test.
  • Support certification closure and entry-into-service readiness.

What You Bring
  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering or related STEM discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience in flight controls or related aerospace systems development.
  • Experience supporting aircraft certification and verification activities on safety-critical systems.
  • Strong understanding of aircraft flight control systems and architectures.
  • Demonstrated experience with certification planning and compliance for aerospace systems.
  • Ability to operate as a technical authority and in-house subject-matter expert.
  • Excellent communication skills, including authority-facing technical discussions.
  • Experience with MATLAB / Simulink-based control development and verification environments.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively across IPTs and disciplines.

Bonus Points
  • Advanced degree preferred.
  • Experience with fly-by-wire aircraft from development through certification.
  • Experience with system-level verification and integration testing.
  • Familiarity with eSTOL, powered-lift, or novel aircraft configurations.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures, and industry standards.
  • Prior experience acting as a certification focal or technical lead.
  • US Person (Citizen or Green Card) preferred.
  • Licensed Pilot preferred.

Compensation
$139,000 - $168,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.

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