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Protection And Control Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Control Engineer 3

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various industries ... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ...

T.) as applicable. * Supporting quality control needs and activities for supplier quality ... Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation if you ...

Control Engineer 1

Manassas, VA · On-site

$72K - $108K/yr

... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ... control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and ...

Control Engineer 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

... and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various industries ... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ...

T.) as applicable. * Supporting quality control needs and activities for supplier quality ... Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation if you ...

Control Engineer 3

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

... and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various industries ... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ...

Control Engineer 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ... control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and ...

Control Engineer 1

Winchester, VA · On-site

$65K - $97K/yr

... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ... control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and ...

Control Engineer 1

Richmond, VA · On-site

$68K - $102K/yr

... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ... control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and ...

Control Engineer 3 - Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

... and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced ... control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Controls engineers use these skills to design and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Protection And Control Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$66.9K

$117K

$182.4K

How much do protection and control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for protection and control engineer in Virginia is $117,031.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,600.00 and $128,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Protection And Control Engineer vs Relay Technician?

AspectProtection And Control EngineerRelay Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineering, relevant certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, specialized relay training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and commissioning of protection systems in substations and power plantsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of relays on-site
Industry UsageUsed by utilities, power generation companies, and industrial plantsPrimarily employed by utilities and maintenance contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and responsibilities of protection engineersTechnical repair and maintenance of relays and protection devices

Protection And Control Engineers focus on designing, testing, and overseeing protection systems in power networks, requiring higher-level engineering credentials. Relay Technicians handle installation and maintenance of relays, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in power systems but differ in scope, responsibilities, and qualifications.

How does a Protection and Control Engineer typically collaborate with other teams during a power system project?

Protection and Control Engineers work closely with various teams such as design, commissioning, operations, and maintenance throughout a project. They coordinate with design teams to ensure protection schemes align with system requirements, communicate with field engineers during installation and commissioning to address technical challenges, and collaborate with operations staff to resolve protection issues post-deployment. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as these engineers often bridge the gap between theoretical design and practical implementation.

What are Protection and Control Engineers?

Protection and Control Engineers are specialized electrical engineers who design, implement, and maintain systems that protect electrical power grids and equipment from faults and failures. They develop relaying schemes, coordinate protection devices, and ensure the safe and reliable operation of substations and transmission lines. Their work helps prevent equipment damage, minimize power outages, and maintain the safety of utility workers and the public. Protection and Control Engineers often use advanced software tools for system analysis and relay settings, and they play a crucial role in integrating renewable energy sources into the grid.

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

To thrive as a Protection and Control Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, power systems, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry standards, relay coordination software (like SEL, GE, or ABB), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are commonly required. Effective problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set outstanding engineers apart in this field. These competencies are essential for ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of electrical power systems in utility and industrial environments.
What job categories do people searching Protection And Control Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Protection And Control Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Protection And Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Protection And Control Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Protection And Control Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,031 per year, or $56.3 per hour.
CONTROL SYSTEMS ENGINEER

CONTROL SYSTEMS ENGINEER

Carter Machinery

Mechanicsville, VA • On-site

$79K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Carter Machinery rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 148 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

Join a Company That's Built to Elevate You.
At Carter Machinery, we don't just offer jobs - we offer long-term careers defined by purpose, innovation, and impact. We've built an award-winning workplace where high achievers thrive, careers grow, and your work truly matters.
Our legacy is strong, our vision is bold, and our future is built on investing in the growth and well-being of our people. Whether you're turning a wrench, managing operations, or supporting customers, you play a vital role in powering industries that moves the world forward.
Job Title: Control Systems Engineer
Location: Richmond, Virginia
Starting Compensation Range: $79,000 - $101,000 per year
The Control Systems Engineer is crucial in designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used for monitoring and controlling facilities (BMS) systems, microgrids, machinery, and SWGR across many different Power System Applications, including industrial controls, power controls, protection, and EV control systems. The individual in this role is responsible for planning, designing/engineering, coordinating and working with project leads to ensure development and implementation of efficient control operations and cost-effective systems to meet current and future needs of the organization.
Requirements for the Control Systems Engineer position includes:
  • Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software for electrical system design, simulation tools for modeling and analysis, and programming languages commonly used in microgrid control systems
  • PLC programming and HMI software development
  • Familiarity with microgrids' control systems and automation technologies, such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, energy management systems (EMS), Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs), Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), Remote Terminal Units (RTUs)
  • Must be very familiar with Protection & Control design concepts
  • Must be able to understand customers' goals and work in partnership with all stakeholders to design control solutions
  • Strong working knowledge in relay logic and wiring diagrams
  • Strong leadership skills and commitment to teamwork
  • Self-starter able to work with limited supervision
  • Must be able to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions
  • Must be able to handle large volumes of work in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to multi-task while maintaining organized and detailed documentation of all conversations
  • Must possess a strong sense of urgency and a desire to exceed customer expectations
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be able to engage in effective and persuasive discussions on complex topics with leadership and other company personnel
  • Clean driving record and a valid driver's license, required
  • Frequent travel is required - overnight or out town via car or airplane
  • Promote a positive customer experience
  • Uphold the Core Values of Integrity, Commitment, Excellence and Teamwork by embracing The Carter Way

Seeking Candidates with:
  • Minimum of seven years' industrial/electrical power system and controls design experience; other similar industries will be considered
  • Prior experience with Protection & Control design concepts, including one-lines, three-lines, schematics, wiring, etc.
  • Experience in Panel and Shop Drawing design
  • Experience in installing and maintaining SCADA equipment, PLC's and communication circuits
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or electrical engineering technology from an accredited institution

Physical Requirements:
  • Required to sit and talk or hear
  • Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus

Competitive Compensation and Benefits:
  • Health, dental and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k), $0.75 to $1.25 match up to 6%
  • Life and disability insurance
  • In-house training instructors/programs
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Tool allowances and tool loans
  • Discounts on cellular phone service, computers, and vehicles
  • Opportunities for overtime
  • Shift differential (if applicable)

You'll gain access to real learning, real advancement, and a real future in a company that's reshaping what it means to lead in our industry. If you're looking for purpose, possibilities, and a team that wins together - you belong at Carter Machinery.
Come build what matters and build your future with us.
Actual base pay may vary based on experience, skills, qualifications, education, geographic location, and other relevant business considerations. In addition to base pay, the compensation package may include participation in performance-based incentive programs (e.g., discretionary or non-discretionary plans), as well as overtime eligibility depending on the role.
Carter Machinery Co. Inc. is an EEO/AA Employer. All qualified individuals - including minorities, females, veterans, and individuals with disabilities, or any other characteristic protected by law - are encouraged to apply.
Carter Machinery is a drug-free workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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