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Process Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

PwrQ Holdings LLC

Senior Controls Engineer

Hanover, MD

$150K - $166K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to oversees and leads the development of PLC and HMI programs for safe, effective, and efficient operation of Forgent products and processes while meeting and ...

MGM Transformers

Senior Controls Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$150K - $166K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to oversees and leads the development of PLC and HMI programs for safe, effective, and efficient operation of Forgent products and processes while meeting and ...

MGM Transformers

Senior Controls Engineer

Hanover, MD · On-site +1

$150K - $166K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to oversees and leads the development of PLC and HMI programs for safe, effective, and efficient operation of Forgent products and processes while meeting and ...

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Using Amazon leadership principles, you will develop new processes and standards while innovating ... Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple ...

Fluence

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$52 - $66.50/hr

Role Overview We are looking for a Principal Controls Software Engineer with a passion for software ... Experience in CI/CD integration process and toolchain. * Experience with Industrial Protocols:

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Controls Engineers 1 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 1

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Controls Engineers 1 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

CPG

Controls & Integration Engineer I

Ashburn, VA

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls engineers are technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Overview Controls Engineers 3 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Controls Engineers 3 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing ... Experience with process controls instrumentation. * Ability to travel up to 30%. * A DNA comprised ...

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing ... Experience with process controls instrumentation. * Ability to travel up to 30%. * A DNA comprised ...

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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 Jun 7, 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 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.

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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, and 95% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,854 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

PwrQ Holdings LLC

Hanover, MD

$150K - $166K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

 Job Summary: 

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to oversees and leads the development of PLC and HMI programs for safe, effective, and efficient operation of Forgent products and processes while meeting and exceeding company quality and production standards and customer documentation and delivery requirements. 


Job Duties and Responsibilities: 

  • Design, develop, and support programming for control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and related devices, ensuring projects remain on schedule and within budget in a fast-paced engineering environment. 
  • Review and interpret customer requirements and project specifications, providing clear guidance to engineering and design teams. 
  • Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and resolve design, quality, and manufacturing issues, and support continuous improvement initiatives. 
  • Develop training materials, documentation, procedures, and work instructions to support the growth and capability of engineering and technical teams. 
  • Stay current with industry trends, new technologies, and emerging products to support ongoing product development efforts. 
  • Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal teams, suppliers, vendors, and external partners. 
  •  Provide field support for technical and commercial needs, with occasional local and limited domestic travel as required. 
  • Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and housekeeping procedures. 

Required Skills and Abilities:  

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering or related technical discipline (or equivalent technical training and experience) 
  • 5+ years of engineering experience with a focus on control systems, automation, or related technologies 
  • Working knowledge of common industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Ethernet-based protocols, etc.) 
  • Ability to coordinate and manage technical aspects of customer projects 
  • Experience preparing technical proposals or supporting product/project cost estimates 
  • Strong relationship-building skills with customers, suppliers, and internal teams 
  • Proficiency with standard business software (Microsoft Office Suite) 
  • Hands-on experience with PLC and HMI programming platforms 
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience with SCADA systems or system integration tools 
  • Familiarity with utility, power, or industrial software tools or configuration platforms 
  • Experience with protective relays, automation devices, or related configuration software 
  • Broad understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software design principles 
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines 
  • Experience in industries such as renewable energy, energy storage, data centers, or emerging power technologies is a plus 

Skills and Competancy: 

  • Controls Engineering Expertise 
  • Technical Problem-Solving 
  • Analytical Thinking 
  • Communication & Collaboration 
  • Project Coordination 
  • Training & Documentation Development 
  • Process Improvement Mindset 
  • Interpersonal Skills 
  • Attention to Detail 
  • Adaptability & Continuous Learning 
  • Confidentiality & Professionalism 

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