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Process Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Washington, DC

$94K - $121K/yr

Job Title: Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, programs, tests, and commissions ... processes. Responsibilities * Support operators and owners by planning, leading, and conducting ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Washington, DC

$94K - $121K/yr

Controls Engineer | 5-days onsite in Washington, DC | Pay: 60k - 100k/yr | 6-month contract-to-hire ... processes. Responsibilities * Support operators and owners by planning, leading, and conducting ...

Fusion ICS

Controls Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

The Controls Engineer will provide onsite and remote engineering, programming, troubleshooting ... Experience with DDC, PLCs, process systems, and building automation * Strong SCADA programming and ...

Integratedcooling

Controls Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

The Controls Engineer will provide onsite and remote engineering, programming, troubleshooting ... Experience with DDC, PLCs, process systems, and building automation * Strong SCADA programming and ...

New

Paper Converting Machine

Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

A minimum of three years of direct experience as a controls engineer working on automated processes/system integration in a food, beverage, consumer health product, or other industrial manufacturing ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

A minimum of three years of direct experience as a controls engineer working on automated processes/system integration in a food, beverage, consumer health product, or other industrial manufacturing ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$86K - $112K/yr

Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Senior Controls Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

... systems for industrial processes that meet our customer's requirements. This involves the ... The Controls Engineer would design, detail and implement a variety of fiber, wired and wireless ...

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Process Controls Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$59.5K

$111.9K

$166.5K

How much do process controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for process controls engineer in Washington is $111,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $131,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process controls engineer?

A Process Controls Engineer is a professional who designs, implements, and maintains control systems used to operate and optimize industrial processes. They work with automation technologies, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and instrumentation, to ensure processes run efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards. Their role often involves troubleshooting equipment, improving process reliability, and collaborating with other engineering teams to enhance production quality. Process Controls Engineers are commonly found in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals.

What are some common challenges process controls engineers face when implementing new automation systems?

Process Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy equipment, ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades, and maintaining compliance with industry safety standards. They must also collaborate closely with operations, IT, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless implementation. Effective troubleshooting, clear communication, and thorough documentation are essential for overcoming these obstacles and achieving successful project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process controls engineer, and why are they important?

Success as a Process Controls Engineer requires a solid background in engineering principles, process automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and certifications like ISA Certified Automation Professional are typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot system issues. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable industrial operations.

What is the difference between Process Controls Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectProcess Controls EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, often with certifications in control systems or PLC programmingRequires a degree in engineering or computer science, with certifications in automation or robotics
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesManufacturing, robotics, or software development environments
Industry UsageCommonly used in process industries like chemical, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticalsUsed across manufacturing, automotive, and electronics sectors

While both roles involve automation and control systems, Process Controls Engineers focus on maintaining and optimizing process control systems in industrial settings, whereas Automation Engineers often work on designing and implementing automation solutions, including robotics and software systems. The roles overlap in skills but differ in scope and application within manufacturing environments.

How much does a process controls engineer earn?

A process controls engineer's average salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in automation and control systems can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $120,000 per year.

What does a process controls engineer do?

A process controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage manufacturing and industrial processes. They analyze process data, select appropriate control strategies, and use tools like PLCs and SCADA systems to optimize efficiency and safety. The role often requires knowledge of automation, instrumentation, and industry standards.

What are popular job titles related to Process Controls Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Process Controls Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Controls Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Controls Engineer jobs in Washington are:

Process Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Controls Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,854 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Reston, VA • Hybrid

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Inc
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Incexternal

$86K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:

  • 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history
  • ENR (Engineering News Record) Top 500 firm
  • Rated as a top System Integrator Giant

We have a Controls Engineer position in Reston, VA. This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance. 

Please Note: This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, including H-1B sponsorship. 

Responsibilities 

    • Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process system requirements
    • Develops schematics detailing control system configuration and wiring, and design equipment panel layouts on AutoCAD software
    • Develop Sequence of Operation document detailing control strategies for the process under control. Lead design reviews with customer for review and approval of design documents
    • Work at customer site to perform the system checkout and start-up of the integrated control system
    • Develop the final record system documentation and provide system training to the customer
    • Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across multiple industries including both manufacturing production lines and data center building automation
    • Will act as technical lead on projects and guide lower level engineers and technicians
    • Will act as Project Manager on smaller projects ranging from $50K to $250K. This includes but not limited to:
      • Develops and executes implementation plans for the project
      • Assigns work to meet overall project deadlines
      • Ensures that all project team members clearly understand the scope of W-M responsibilities
      • Develops schedules for W-M and customer requirements
      • Evaluates progress on project and details changes
      • Responsible for all purchasing and subcontractor requirements
      • Responsible for development of costs and proposal of change orders to contract scope

    Minimum Requirements

    Education BS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred.

    Experience Three to five years’ experience in areas below:

    • An in-depth understanding of control systems, components, logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP) required. Experience with AutoCAD is also desired
    • Strong inter-personnel skills. Ability to communicate and work with both team members, subcontractors and clients
    • Ability to travel up to 50%

    Physical Demands of Position Seeing, color perception, hearing, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, and ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling.

    Working Environment Standard office environment, diverse industrial environments, frequent PC usage, facsimile/copy machines, phones.

    Wunderlich-Malec is proud to offer a comprehensive employee-owner benefit package. Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits: Medical • Dental • Vision • Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D • Long Term Disability • Voluntary Short Term Disability • Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts • Health Savings Account • Paid Time Off (PTO) • Paid Holidays • Tuition Reimbursement • Referral Bonus Program • 401(k)/Profit Sharing • 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) • Employee Assistance Program • Will Preparation Resources • Worldwide Travel Assistance 

    #LI-Hybrid

    #LI-WM1