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Protection & Controls Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

They work in various industries including building management systems, power system automation and protection systems. Controls engineers are technical experts in areas such as advanced process ...

Data Center Controls Engineer, Deployment

Stafford, VA · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Key job responsibilities As a Data Center Controls Engineer you will: • Troubleshoot and perform ... protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status. Our inclusive culture ...

Control Engineer 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

Controls Engineers work in various industries including industrial controls, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as ...

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Showing results 1-20

Protection Controls Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do protection & controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for protection & controls engineer in Virginia is $95,745.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Protection & Controls Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Protection & Controls Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical power systems, protection schemes, and control logic, usually backed by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as SEL AcSELerator, ETAP, and relay programming tools, as well as certifications like PE or NETA, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are key soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate system protection, minimize downtime, and support safe, reliable operation of critical power infrastructure.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Protection & Controls Engineer?

A Protection & Controls Engineer typically spends their day designing, reviewing, and testing protection and control systems for electrical substations and power grids. Daily tasks may include developing relay settings, performing fault analysis, creating wiring diagrams, and collaborating with project teams and field technicians to ensure accurate implementation. You will also troubleshoot and resolve issues in existing systems, update project documentation, and participate in meetings with clients or stakeholders. This role often balances independent technical work with teamwork, providing variety and opportunities to apply both engineering knowledge and problem-solving skills.

What is a Protection & Controls Engineer job?

A Protection & Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining electrical protection and control systems for power grids, substations, and industrial facilities. They ensure the safe and reliable operation of electrical systems by developing protective relaying schemes, performing system studies, and troubleshooting faults. Their role involves working with relays, circuit breakers, SCADA systems, and automation technologies to prevent equipment damage and power outages. They collaborate with utilities, engineering teams, and field technicians to optimize system performance and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Infographic showing various Protection & Controls Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,745 per year, or $46 per hour.
Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer

Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer

AllSTEM Connections

Manassas, VA • On-site

$124K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Instrumentation & Controls Engineer (Short JD)
We are looking for an experienced Instrumentation & Controls Engineer to design and implement control systems for advanced manufacturing facilities.
Responsibilities
Design PLC, SCADA, and control systems
Prepare P&IDs, wiring, and loop diagrams
Review vendor documents and ensure compliance
Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical/Mechanical/Chemical)
6+ years of experience in control systems
Knowledge of PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider)
Perks
Work on high-tech industrial projects
Collaborative team environment
Relocation/travel support available
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disabled / Protected Veterans
The Know Your Rights poster is available here:
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf
The pay transparency policy is available here:
https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ofccp/pdf/pay-transp_%20English_formattedESQA508c.pdf
For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, AllSTEM Connections is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick pay where required.
We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact your staffing representative who will reach out to our HR team.
AllSTEM Connections participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf
We also consider for employment qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements, including, if applicable, the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Pursuant to applicable state and municipal Fair Chance Laws and Ordinances, we will consider for employment-qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records, including, if applicable, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. For Los Angeles, CA applicants: Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Additional Skills
(none specified)
AllSTEM Representative Contact Info
Account Executive:
Shivam
Branch Phone:
(909) 244-1777
Location:
Houston, TX