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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Project Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/hr

This entry-level experience introduces new professionals to the construction industry and prepares ... controls, including reviewing and approving subcontractor invoices and updating the project ...

Fusion is seeking a motivated entry-level Electrical Engineer with an active TS to support secure ... Ability to work in high-security environments requiring strict access controls and security ...

R&D Materials Engineer

Adamstown, MD ยท On-site

$65K - $150K/yr

We are seeking an entry level or experienced Materials / Ceramic Engineer to join our Engineering ... Implement improvements, make process changes through established change controls, and ensure the ...

New

Project Engineer, Associate

Aldie, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

... controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers ... Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ...

Project Engineer, Associate

Ashburn, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

... controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers ... Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ...

Office Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

... Level Entry Level Education Associate Degree Travel None Security Clearance Required HSPD-12 ... project controls, estimating, change/issues management, specifications, CAD Intelligence ...

In this entry level role you will help engineer, automate, and maintain the infrastructure and ... access controls, and hardening in line with government/NIST requirements. . Document runbooks ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$57.2K

$100.5K

$136.3K

How much do entry level controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 is an entry level controls engineer?

An Entry Level Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and troubleshooting control systems used in manufacturing and automation. They work with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and other automation components to optimize system performance. Typical tasks include programming, testing, and debugging control systems, as well as collaborating with senior engineers and technicians. This role requires a background in electrical or mechanical engineering, along with knowledge of automation software and hardware. Entry-level positions often involve hands-on training and mentorship to build technical expertise.

What are the main types of projects or systems an entry level controls engineer typically works on?

As an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you will often be involved in designing, programming, and maintaining automated control systems for manufacturing lines, industrial machinery, or building automation projects. Your typical responsibilities might include configuring PLCs, developing HMI screens, conducting system testing, and assisting with troubleshooting both in the office and on-site. You will collaborate closely with senior engineers, project managers, and technicians to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet quality standards. This hands-on experience gives you valuable exposure to different industries and technologies, laying the groundwork for future specialization or advancement within controls engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level controls engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, basic programming skills (such as PLC or ladder logic), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure you can efficiently design, troubleshoot, and implement control systems that are safe, reliable, and meet client specifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,471 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

OT Security Engineer (Hybrid/Remote)

Bethesda, MD โ€ข On-site

Macro Solutions
IT Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

OT Cybersecurity Engineer
Location: Bethesda, MD (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)
Employment Type: Long-term contract or contract-to-hire
Clearance: Must be able to pass a standard background check and obtain a Public Trust Clearance
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizenship required
 
Macro Pros has an immediate opening for an OT Cybersecurity Engineer to support the security of Operational Technology (OT) environments, including building automation, utilities, and other critical facilities systems. This role supports a client in Bethesda, Maryland.

Candidates must currently live in the Washington, DC metro area and be willing to work onsite in Bethesda three days per week.

What You’ll Do:
  • Assist with inventory and documentation of OT/ICS assets and networks
  • Maintain OT network and data flow diagrams, including segmented zones
  • Support monitoring of OT network segments for unusual or suspicious activity
  • Help triage OT-related security alerts and coordinate with cybersecurity and facilities teams
  • Assist with vulnerability tracking, patching/firmware planning, and basic system hardening
  • Contribute to OT risk assessments, security documentation, and compliance efforts (e.g., NIST-based controls)
  • Work with facilities, biomedical/clinical engineering teams, and vendors to plan secure changes and maintenance activities
Hands-On Experience With:
  • OT, controls, or building/facility systems (BAS/BMS, HVAC, utilities, PLCs)
  • IT and cybersecurity fundamentals (networking, firewalls, monitoring, vulnerability management)
  • Core networking and security concepts (TCP/IP, segmentation, least privilege, logging)
  • Clear technical documentation and communication with both technical and non-technical teams
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 6 years of federal government experience
  • Experience with OT or industrial systems (building automation, power/backup systems, lab or facility controls)
  • Experience with OT/industrial protocols (BACnet, Modbus)
  • Knowledge of security frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, NIST SP 800-53, CIS Controls)
  • Entry-level certifications such as Security+, Network+, CySA+, or OT/ICS-focused training
  • Experience with OT security platforms (Nozomi, Dragos, Claroty)
  • Familiarity with federal security frameworks (FedRAMP, FISMA, RMF, NIST CSF, NIST SP 800-series)
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, engineering (mechanical, electrical, controls, systems), IT, or a related field
    or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Work Environment:
  • Onsite in Bethesda three days per week (flexible on days) and two days remote
  • Occasional off-hours work to support maintenance windows or incident response
  • Regular access to mechanical rooms, plants, labs, and clinical areas (PPE and safety procedures required)