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Entry Level Process Control Engineer Jobs in Virginia

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2

Winchester, VA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

They're?technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Personnel Management o Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers o Assigns ...

Westrock

Staff Eng, Process Control

Covington, VA · On-site

Process Engineers provide technical assistance to the operating departments to help them achieve the mill's goals and objectives while driving continuous process improvement. Major Job ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed ... Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers * Assigns tasks and coordinates ...

CloudFit Software

Command & Control Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$16.83 - $21.63/hr

Hunger to grow and learn more - this is an entry level role with endless potential for career ... About This Opportunity This role may be part of our proactive hiring process. While an immediate ...

Westrock

Eng I, Process Eng

Covington, VA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

As an Entry-Level Process Engineer, you would provide technical services in monitoring ... to assist in process control, budgeting, and detection of trends. * Participate on process ...

Smurfit Westrock

Eng I, Process Eng

Covington, VA · On-site

$69K - $115K/yr

As an Entry-Level Process Engineer, you would provide technical services in monitoring ... to assist in process control, budgeting, and detection of trends. * Participate on process ...

Micron Technology, Inc

Process Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Works with other process areas to understand and control process deviations. Long-term investigation of defect issues may require extensive work with shift engineering and other functional areas.

Micron

Process Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$112K - $139K/yr

Works with other process areas to understand and control process deviations. Long-term investigation of defect issues may require extensive work with shift engineering and other functional areas.

Micron Technology

Process Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$112K - $139K/yr

Works with other process areas to understand and control process deviations. Long-term investigation of defect issues may require extensive work with shift engineering and other functional areas.

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Entry Level Process Control Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$52K

$97.9K

$145.7K

How much do entry level process control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process control engineer in Virginia is $97,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,900.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level process control engineer do?

An Entry Level Process Control Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, implementation, and optimization of control systems used in manufacturing and production processes. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and support process improvements. Their work helps ensure that production runs efficiently, safely, and within quality standards. Typical duties may include configuring control hardware and software, collecting and analyzing process data, and collaborating with other engineering teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level process control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Control Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering, typically with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and process simulation software is essential, and certifications like ISA CAP can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot process issues. These skills ensure efficient and safe operation of industrial processes, driving productivity and minimizing errors.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level process control engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level process control engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex automation systems, adapting to fast-paced industrial environments, and effectively troubleshooting equipment or software issues. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the need to quickly understand process flows, instrumentation, and control strategies. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in hands-on training, and stay updated with best practices in process automation. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as the role frequently involves collaborating with operators, maintenance teams, and other engineers to ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Control Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process Control EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field; some certifications beneficialAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systems in industrial settingsOperating, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment on the plant floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, oil & gas industriesManufacturing plants, refineries, chemical facilities

Entry Level Process Control Engineers focus on designing and optimizing control systems, while Process Technicians handle daily equipment operation and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but they differ in responsibilities and required education.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Process Control Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Process Control Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Process Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Control Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,911 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Control Engineer 2

Winchester, VA • On-site

M.C. Dean, Inc
Engineering Professional Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about M.C. Dean, Incexternal

$81K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

M.C. Dean rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

244th of 454 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
About M.C. Dean
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.
Why Join Us?
Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values-agility, expertise, and trust-we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.
Control Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery, and processes. Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and transportation systems.?They're?technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design and implement solutions to solve our customer's most complex needs.
Responsibilities
Design / Engineering
  • Originates design documents for small projects and in support of large programs.

o Narrative Design Documents
o Requirements Analysis
o Subsystem Designs (CAD / Panels / Layouts / Wiring / SCADA Screens/ Hardware / Communications)
o Preparation of Specifications
o Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs
o Plans and Designs Procedures and Fixtures for Integrated Systems Factory Testing
o Internal/External Comment Resolution
  • Programming

o Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications.
o Program / Configure / troubleshoot PLCs, RTUs, and/or HMI systems.
  • Testing / Troubleshooting / Deployment / Commissioning

o Author testing / commissioning procedures
o Preparation of test reports
o Originates test procedures
o Commissioning of deployed systems
o Development of test fixtures and simulation devices
o Perform Factory and Field Testing
  • Maintenance

o Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators.
o Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.
Managerial Responsibilities
  • Estimates

o Conducts any surveys, inspections, tours, etc. of client sites, as required.
o Prepares cost estimates and supporting documents for small projects.
o Assists senior engineers in preparation of Bids and Proposals cost estimates and supporting documentation.
o Evaluation and pricing of change orders
  • Personnel Management

o Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers
o Assigns tasks and coordinates with Technical Staff
Qualifications
Field Experience
  • Experience in reading electrical and control schematics and plans
  • Experience in control system startup, configuration, and calibration
  • Experience in testing and troubleshooting control systems
  • Experience using basic electrical and machinist hand tools
  • Experience using testing, calibration, or industry-specific tools and software

Tools / Software
  • Experience in computer networks
  • Experience in CAD/CAE Software (AutoCAD / EPLAN)
  • Standard Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.)

Requirements
  • Attend regular in-person meetings with customers outside of assigned office.
  • Proficient in programming languages such as ladder logic and structured text.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues.
  • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLCs or DDCs from at least 1 of the following platforms:

o Siemens (SIMATIC)
o Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) (Plant Pax preferred)
o Schneider Electric (Modicon)
o Tridium Niagara Framework
o ABB (AC500, AC800M)
o Omron
o KMC Controls
o Johnson Controls Metasys
o Honeywell WEBS
o Johnson Control FX
o Siemens Desigo/Apogee
o Distech Controls
o Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
o GE Intelligent Platforms
  • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting SCADA solutions from at least 1 of the following platforms:

o AVEVA (formerly Wonderware) InTouch, System Platform
o Ignition by Inductive Automation
o GE Digital (iFIX, CIMPLICITY)
o Siemens WinCC
o Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View
o AVEVA (formerly Schneider Electric) Citect SCADA
o Intellution FIX32/HMI32 (Historical) by GE Digital
o VTScada by Trihedral Engineering Limited
o AVEVA (OSIsoft PI) Historian
Preferred Licenses / Certifications
  • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA)
  • Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)
  • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) In relevant in field
  • Certification in one or more PLC / Automation Platform, such as: Schneider, Rockwell, Siemens, Niagara, etc.
  • Certification in one or more SCADA platform, such as: AVEVA, Rockwell, Iconics, Ignition, etc.
  • Possess driver's license and vehicle for transportation to customer sites. This position may require ongoing or intermittent use of a company vehicle. Selected candidates must possess an acceptable driving record in accordance to our policy

Education / Experience
  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field 0+ years of experience
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of experience

Abilities
  • Exposure 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.

Pay Range
USD $81,600.00 - USD $102,000.00 /Yr.

What M.C. Dean employees say

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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