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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

The position combines project controls / management expertise (scheduling, cost management, earned value analysis) with strong contractor coordination and engineering team management responsibilities.

Project Controls Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

About the Role We seek a Project Controls Engineer to provide scheduling support services to our valued clients. This position will work with a team of professionals, including client project ...

The position combines project controls / management expertise (scheduling, cost management, earned value analysis) with strong contractor coordination and engineering team management responsibilities.

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Controls Engineer Senior Staff

Ashburn, VA · Remote

$99K - $131K/yr

Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering * Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments Training * Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems ...

Junior SCADA/Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Leidos is seeking a highly motivated Controls Systems / SCADA Engineer to join our team in Reston, Virginia. This role supports the analysis and characterization of commercial, critical ...

Junior SCADA/Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Leidos is seeking a highly motivated Controls Systems / SCADA Engineer to join our team in Reston, Virginia. This role supports the analysis and characterization of commercial, critical ...

Controls Engineer Senior Staff

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering * Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments Training * Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$57.2K

$100.5K

$136.3K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Reston, VA is $100,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

Electrical engineers, including controls engineers, typically earn salaries below $500,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or executive roles reaching higher compensation. Achieving such a salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, leadership positions, or working in high-paying sectors like aerospace or energy. Most control engineers earn between $70,000 and $130,000 per year, depending on location and expertise.

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 $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 controls engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or advanced manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and profit sharing. These positions often require advanced skills in automation, programming, and certifications, along with extensive industry experience.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized control engineers with advanced skills in automation, PLC programming, and control systems may earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like manufacturing and energy.
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Controls & Integration Engineer II, Electrical

CPG Beyond, Inc.

Ashburn, VA

$85K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

TITLE: Controls amp; Integration Engineer II, Electrical
LOCATION: Ashburn, VA
POSITION SUMMARY: Controls Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, equipment and processes. They work in various industries including building management systems, power system automation and protection systems. Controls engineers are technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and implement solutions to our customers’ complex needs.
Specific areas of expertise for this position include power chain monitoring and control systems in Data Centers and /or mission critical environments. Experience in Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS) and field device configuration such as gateways, PLC, Meters, Relays, and SCADA/HMI software. Experience in Building Automation Systems (BAS) and configuration/programming of field controllers is beneficial.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the following satisfactorily; other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Technical Responsibilities
  • Design / Engineering
    • Assists Senior Engineers in design documents for SCADA/Automation projects
      • Developing design document narratives
      • Perform requirements analysis
      • Understanding of Sequence of Operations (SOO) / System Functional Documentation
      • Create Subsystem Designs (CAD / Panels / Layouts / Wiring / SCADA Screens / Hardware / Communications)
      • Comment Resolution
    • Reviews and comments on 3rd party design documents for SCADA/Automation projects in support of large programs/projects
      • Review design document narratives
      • Perform execution and design scope gap analysis
      • Review Sequence of Operations / System Functional Documentation to ensure compliance with project requirements
      • Review Subsystem Designs (CAD / Panels / Layouts / Wiring / SCADA Screens / Hardware / Communications) for project compliance
      • Assist in reviewing project specifications
      • Assist in creation of testing plans and procedures for Integrated Systems Factory Testing
  • Programming
    • Program / configure / troubleshoot Controllers, PLCs, RTUs, and/or HMI systems
  • Testing / Troubleshooting / Deployment / Commissioning
    • Assist senior engineers in creating and updating testing and commissioning procedures
    • Preparation of test reports
    • Originates test procedures
    • Commissioning of deployed systems
    • Development of test equipment and simulation devices
    • Perform Factory and Field Testing
  • Maintenance
    • Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators
    • Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems
Managerial Responsibilities
  • Estimates
    • Assists senior engineers in preparation of cost estimates and supporting documentation
    • Work with relevant stakeholders to review scope of project
    • Conduct any surveys, inspections, tours, etc. of client sites, as required
    • Assists senior engineers in evaluation and pricing of change orders from vendors
  • Personnel Management
    • Assigns tasks and coordinates with Technical Staff
    • Provides technical direction and on-the-job training to drafters, engineering technicians, and less experienced engineers.
QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor degree in electrical or mechanical engineering and 2-5 years field experience
  • Associate degree in the electrical or mechanical field (add 3 years field experience)
  • High school diploma (add 5 years field experience)
  • 2-5 years’ experience with designing and servicing controls systems for switchgear, substations, metering and SCADA/Fault Data/SER/Integration-Automation equipment installation and testing
  • Experience in reading electrical and control schematics
  • Experience in electrical power monitoring systems (EPMS) startup, configuration, and calibration
  • Experience in testing and troubleshooting control and protection systems
  • Experience using basic electrical and hand tools
  • Experience using testing, calibration, or industry-specific tools and software
  • Experience testing, reading/verifying all voltage and current inputs to relays; verifying all metering (local and SCADA); calibrating all relays; trip testing (local and SCADA); verifying all alarms (local and SCADA); verifying all alarms (local and SCADA); verifying all function switches, etc.
  • Experience with 3 phase power systems; power system protection amp; control schemes; test equipment; test equipment software
  • MUST BE A US CITIZEN
Computer/Networking Skills:
  • Experience in OT and IT networking technologies and topologies
  • Experience troubleshooting and diagnosing OT and IT networks and protocols
  • Experience in CAD/CAE Software (Visio, AutoCAD)
  • Experience in schedule management software (Project, Primavera P6)
  • Standard Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, Access etc.)
Certificates and Licenses:
  • Required Certifications
    • Certification in one or more PLC / Automation Platform, such as: Niagara N4, Schneider Power Monitoring, Rockwell, Siemens, JCI, Eaton Foreseer, etc.
    • Certification in one or more SCADA platforms, such as: Iconics, Ignition, Aveva, etc.
  • Preferred Licenses / Certifications
    • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA)
    • Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)
    • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to computer screens for an extended period of time; Sitting for extended periods of time; Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction; Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard; Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences; Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand; Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing; Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense; Identify and understand the speech of another person.
The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor.
CPG is an equal opportunity employer. We will consider all employment applicants without attention to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
* We Utilize E-Verify
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