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Plc Automation Contract Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

CDM Smith

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

... logic controllers (PLC), reporting software, historians and historical data collection, etc ... Developing opportunities to expand contracts with existing clients. • Performs other duties as ...

Zachary Piper Solutions

Controls Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

This is a contract-to-hire role on-site at Manassas, Virginia. This is a great opportunity to join ... Bradley PLC, Rockwell Automation, Ignition, Inductive Automation Ignition, Distech, Niagara ...

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Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $112K/yr

... PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance. Please Note: This ... Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ...

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Inc

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $112K/yr

... PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance. Please Note: This ... Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

... PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance. Please Note: This ... Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ...

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All JobsPlc Automation Contract JobsPlc Automation Contract Jobs in Reston, VA

Plc Automation Contract information

See Reston, VA salary details

$20

$35

$44

How much do plc automation contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for plc automation contract in Reston, VA is $35.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.49 and $38.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plc automation contract?

A PLC Automation Contract typically refers to an agreement between a company and a contractor or service provider to design, install, program, or maintain Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) used in industrial automation. These contracts outline the scope of work, timelines, deliverables, and responsibilities related to automating machinery and processes using PLC systems. PLC automation is essential in manufacturing, food processing, energy, and other industries to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability. Contractors may also provide ongoing technical support and training as part of the contract.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plc automation contractor, and why are they important?

To excel as a PLC Automation Contractor, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and programming languages like ladder logic, typically supported by technical certifications or a related degree. Familiarity with major PLC platforms (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Schneider Electric) and related software tools is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help contractors manage projects and collaborate with clients and teams. These competencies ensure reliable system design, timely troubleshooting, and successful project delivery in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in plc automation contract roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in PLC Automation Contract roles often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, troubleshooting unexpected system failures under tight project deadlines, and adapting to varying client requirements. These challenges can be addressed by staying updated on the latest PLC programming standards, maintaining strong documentation practices, and fostering clear communication with both clients and team members. Building a network of experienced peers and participating in ongoing training can also help contract professionals stay agile and effective in diverse PLC environments.

What is the difference between Plc Automation Contract vs Plc Automation Technician?

AspectPlc Automation ContractPlc Automation Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications, technical degrees, experience in automation projectsTechnical certifications, vocational training, hands-on experience
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often on-site at manufacturing or industrial facilitiesOn-site or in a workshop, focused on installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageContracting companies, industrial plants, automation service providersManufacturers, automation service companies, industrial facilities

In summary, a Plc Automation Contract typically refers to a project-based role involving overseeing or managing automation projects, while a Plc Automation Technician focuses on hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of PLC systems. Both roles require technical skills but differ in scope and employment type.

What are popular job titles related to Plc Automation Contract jobs in Reston, VA?

For Plc Automation Contract jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plc Automation Contract jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Plc Automation Contract jobs in Reston, VA are:

Plc Automation Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Automation Contract job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,128 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Building Automation System (BAS) Project Engineer II

Conquest Solutions

Greenbelt, MD • On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Building Automation System (BAS) Project Engineer II
Conquest Solutions, LLC (CQS) is a leading application and engineering consulting firm in the Washington, D.C. metro area specializing in Building Automation Systems (BAS) and General Construction. We provide these services to federal, state, and local government agencies, hospital, schools, universities, private sector companies and commercial entities.
CQS has an exciting opportunity for a Building Automation System (BAS) Project Engineer II to join our team to support the implementation of building automation systems for multiple clients in the Washington, DC Metro Area.
Position Overview
The Building Automation System (BAS) Project Engineer II is responsible for engineering auditing, design and implementation of BAS strategies across various mechanical and electrical systems to achieve project success. This is a customer facing role for an experienced BAS application engineering professional. This position will work in a leadership role and may include various functional areas including BAS design, renovation, retrofit, auditing, retro-commissioning, checkout, programming. This position will functionally report to a Senior Project Manager/Director.
Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to the following:
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Conduct project site visits to investigate existing BAS systems serving mechanical, electrical and HVAC equipment and document existing conditions including system performance information and infrastructure drawings.
  • Lead in engineering design and development activities in support of BAS construction, operations, and maintenance of customer site projects as required by energy savings performance contracts, O & M contracts, and fee-based consultations.
  • Coordinate with vendors and installation contractors for successful implementation of project scopes of work (SOW).
  • Work with project stakeholders (customers, supervisors, programmers, field personnel, other contractors) to gather information relating to any issues and/or changes in functionality and features of various control systems.
  • Lead and manage the coordination of integration activity and provide technical support of DDC based hardware and software including working with other engineers to create and/or verify control and integration point lists.
  • Conduct graphics engineering functions which include: reviewing graphics as a completed package, for completeness and accuracy, develop and maintain graphic library, and participate in solving job-related graphic problems.
  • Properly document and collaborate with project stakeholders (customers, supervisors, programmers, field personnel, other contractors) to achieve alignment on objectives, priorities, schedules, risks, features, etc.
  • Assist in the training of associates, equipment operators, end users, technical support staff on BAS operation and procedures.
  • Identify any potential problem areas, recommend solutions, and work closely and cooperatively with the client to resolve issues quickly and fairly.
  • Assist in the creation and implementation of innovative methodologies, process improvements, and corrective action plans to continually streamline and improve project operations, outcomes, and quality
  • Facilitate final sign-off/walk-thru and closeout of projects with the client.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by leadership

Job Qualifications
  • Minimum of 5 years work experience in HVAC, Building Automation or control systems with a minimum of 3 years directly working on any combination of integration, checkout, testing, commissioning, and/or field support of DDC and/or PLC-based automation systems
  • Degree in Engineering or related field is preferred but not required if years and level of experience is acceptable
  • Programming experience is desirable but not required.
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of control theory, automatic temperature controls, building automation systems and other building subsystems, PLC Logic
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of specification and design drawing review for control, electrical and mechanical applications as well as industry standards and best practices
  • Knowledge of IP-based networks and various building automation communication protocols and systems preferred. Such protocols and systems include, BACnet, LonWorks, Modbus, etc.
  • Proficient in formulating work plans and performing troubleshooting methods given multiple constraints on BAS
  • Proficient in working with others to plan, conduct, and report work efforts
  • Must work independently with little or no supervision while providing guidance to other team members
  • Excellent communication, organization and interpersonal skills required.
  • Ability to explain technical information to technical and non-technical people.
  • Ability to be attentive and responsive to client concerns.
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task within time and technical constraints.
  • Ability to establish effective collaborative working relationships across different functional areas.
  • Strong working knowledge of current web and mobile technologies.
  • Must possess a high level of ownership, enthusiasm, and a collaborative, professional temperament.

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 required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing 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 occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; outside weather conditions; extreme cold; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Employee Benefits
  • Paid Holidays (14 days)
  • Paid Time Off (starting at 15 days annually)
  • 401k Retirement Plan with company match program (maximum of 4% employer-match)
  • 60% Employer-Provided Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurances for Employee + Family
  • 100% Employer-Provided Life & Disability Insurances for Employee

U.S. Citizenship Required.
Offer is contingent upon passing background check, reference check, security screening, drug screening
Ability to qualify for a US Gov't security clearance is required.
At Conquest Solutions, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Conquest believes that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success as a company, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool.

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