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Plc Applications Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Zachary Piper Solutions

Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Understand PLC applications to configure the communication parameters * Prepares and review simple electrical sketches, CX plans, and data sheets Required Qualifications for the Control Engineer:

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tech Specialist 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

Understand PLC applications to load and update projects * Understand PLC applications to configure ... Basic programming and troubleshooting skills of PLC and SCADA * Proficient with technical writing

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tech Specialist 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

Understand PLC applications to load and update projects * Understand PLC applications to configure ... Basic programming and troubleshooting skills of PLC and SCADA * Proficient with technical writing

Thermo Systems

Engineering Team Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Experienced with creating and editing Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) applications. * Expert in understanding, practicing, and guiding others in the company ...

Thermo Systems LLC.

Engineering Team Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Experienced with creating and editing Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) applications. * Expert in understanding, practicing, and guiding others in the company ...

Thermo Systems LLC

Engineering Team Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

Experienced with creating and editing Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) applications. * Expert in understanding, practicing, and guiding others in the company ...

Thermo Systems

Senior Engineering Team Lead

Reston, VA · On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Continue to learn emerging controls technologies (e.g., Human-Machine Interface (HMI), Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) applications, Communication Protocols). * Serve as a champion in ...

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All JobsPlc Applications Engineer JobsPlc Applications Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Plc Applications Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$57.2K

$125.4K

$172.2K

How much do plc applications engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc applications engineer in Washington, DC is $125,377.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $152,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a PLC Applications Engineer do?

A PLC Applications Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, testing, and maintaining programmable logic controller (PLC) systems used in industrial automation. They work closely with clients and project teams to develop custom control solutions that improve manufacturing processes and equipment performance. Their tasks often include writing PLC code, configuring hardware, troubleshooting issues, and providing technical support. PLC Applications Engineers play a key role in ensuring automation systems run efficiently and reliably.

How does a PLC Applications Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

As a PLC Applications Engineer, you’ll work closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers, to ensure successful integration and implementation of automation solutions. Collaboration often involves reviewing system requirements, coordinating design specifications, and troubleshooting issues during installation and commissioning. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as you’ll frequently need to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and support field technicians during system startup. This multi-disciplinary environment provides valuable exposure to various aspects of industrial automation and fosters continuous professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC Applications Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PLC Applications Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, PLC programming, automation systems, and typically a degree in electrical or automation engineering. Familiarity with programmable logic controller platforms (such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication with both technical teams and clients are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure reliable automation solutions, efficient project execution, and effective collaboration with stakeholders in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Plc Applications Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectPlc Applications EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering; certifications in PLC programming are commonRequires a degree in engineering or related field; certifications in automation systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in manufacturing or industrial settingsDeveloping and implementing automation solutions across various industries, including manufacturing and process control
Industry UsageCommonly employed in industries with heavy automation and PLC use, such as automotive, food processing, and manufacturingUsed broadly in industries requiring automation, including robotics, process industries, and factory automation

While both roles involve automation and engineering skills, a Plc Applications Engineer primarily focuses on PLC programming and system integration within industrial environments. An Automation Engineer has a broader scope, often working on entire automation systems beyond PLCs, including robotics and control systems. The roles overlap in skills and industry usage but differ in specific focus areas.

Are PLC Applications Engineers in demand?

PLC Applications Engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for automation and control system integration across manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and relevant industry standards, making their skills highly sought after in automation projects and system upgrades.

What are popular job titles related to Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Plc Applications Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Applications Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,377 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions

Manassas, VA • On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, test, startup, commission, and calibrate instrumentation devices.

  • Navigate through EPMS and SCADA applications for monitoring, trending, and data retrieval.

  • Configure communication devices, troubleshoot communication link failures, and load/update PLC projects.

Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is hiring a Control Engineer. They will be responsible for technical leadership in the development, implementation, final testing, startup, commissioning, calibration of instrumentation devices. This is a contract-to-hire role on-site at Manassas, Virginia. This is a great opportunity to join rapidly expanding work in the Data center work force.

Responsibilities for the Control Engineer:
  • Navigate through EPMS and SCADA applications for monitoring, trending, and retrieving of data
  • Safely open, close, rack-in and rack-out of breakers for points monitoring
  • Understand PLC applications to load and update projects
  • Understand PLC applications to configure the communication parameters
  • Prepares and review simple electrical sketches, CX plans, and data sheets
Required Qualifications for the Control Engineer:
  • Requires 4 or more years of experience with installation, troubleshooting and/or testing of EPMS, BMS, Industrial instrumentation and/or SCADA systems
  • Assist in the development, implementation, and maintenance of complex BMS, EPMS and SCADA systems, focusing on advanced configurable integrations.
  • Perform basic TCP/IP configuration
  • Configure communication devices and troubleshoot communication link failure
  • Configure Modbus Gateway devices communication protocol and ability to use applications like Modscan for troubleshooting and monitoring
  • Understand the vendor’s manuals and configure vendor’s power meter, PDU, ATS, Generators, STS, UPS, and Battery systems etc.
  • Allen Bradley PLC, Ignition, Distech, Niagara, Siemens Desigo, Eaton Foreseer, Schneider EPO, Open Systems Interconnection (OSI), Wonderware, Instrumentation calibrator/simulator
Compensation for the Control Engineer:
  • Salary range: $100,000 - $150,000 *depending on experience*
  • Comprehensive Benefits: health insurance, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a 401(k)/retirement plan, paid time off, and maternity/paternity leave.

This job opens for applications on 8/21/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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BMS, EPMS, SCADA, ICS, Building Management Systems, Electrical Power Management Systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, Industrial Control Systems, Advanced Integrations, Systems Integration, System Interoperability, System Commissioning, Startup, Calibration, Final Testing, Implementation, TCP/IP Configuration, Network Configuration, Communication Devices, Communication Link Troubleshooting, Modbus, Modbus TCP, Modbus Gateway, Modscan, Power Meters, PDUs, ATS, Generators, STS, UPS, Battery Systems, EPMS Monitoring, SCADA Monitoring, Trending, Data Retrieval, Breaker Operations, Rack-in/Rack-out, Points Monitoring, PLC, PLC Programming, PLC Troubleshooting, PLC Communications, Project Loading, Parameter Configuration, Electrical Sketches, CX Plans, Data Sheets, Electrical Calculations, Mechanical Calculations, Supplier Documentation Review, Specifications Compliance, Commissioning, Inspection, Electrical Testing, Mechanical Testing, Electrical Theory, Mechanical Theory, Power Systems, Switchgear, Transformers, Circuit Breakers, Power Panels, Protection Relays, Power Monitoring Systems, Test Equipment, Point-to-Point Testing, Functional Startup Scripts, Commissioning Tools, CX Alloy, Issues List Management, Technical Writing, Advanced Mathematics, Industry Codes, Industry Standards, Industrial Instrumentation, Installation, Troubleshooting, Testing, Instrumentation Calibrator, Instrumentation Simulator, OT Networking, Cybersecurity Awareness, Customer Site Support, Reliable Attendance, Allen-Bradley PLC, Rockwell Automation, Ignition, Inductive Automation Ignition, Distech, Niagara, Siemens Desigo, Eaton Foreseer, Schneider EcoStruxure EPO, OSI Open Systems International, Wonderware, AVEVA, CCST, ISA CCST, Security+, CompTIA Security+

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