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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Tract Capital

Senior Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$111.60K - $147.30K/yr

The Tract Capital Senior Controls Engineer owns controls discipline design for our behind-the-meter (BTM) generation solutions and integration into Tract's monitoring and command center operations.

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99.70K - $131.60K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA

$99.70K - $131.60K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA

$99.70K - $131.60K/yr

Develop and modify controls logic programming and graphical user interfaces. Manage multiple stakeholder deliverables, requirements and navigate challenging situations. Financially manage BMS and ...

ControlsJobs

BAS - Controls Programmer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$32 - $42.25/hr

Senior Controls Programmer/PM LOCATION: * Alexandria, Virginia RESPONSIBILITIES: * Extensive experience as a Senior Controls Programmer/Controls PM Hybrid * Programming Honeywell (Spyder), JCI FX ...

Google

Senior Data Center Controls Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$100.90K - $133.20K/yr

Experience implementing controls engineering. Preferred qualifications: * M.S. in Mechanical ... You generate ideas, communicate recommendations to senior-level executives and drive implementation ...

Equinix, Inc.

Controls Engineer Senior Staff

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99.20K - $130.90K/yr

Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering * Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments Training * Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems ...

Equinix

Controls Engineer Senior Staff

Ashburn, VA · Remote

$99.30K - $131K/yr

Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering * Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments Training * Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems ...

CPG

Controls & Integration Engineer I

Ashburn, VA

$85.40K - $110.40K/yr

Assists Senior Engineers in design documents for SCADA/Automation projects * Developing design ... controls systems for chiller plants, complex air distribution equipment, equipment installation ...

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Senior Controls Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$74.9K

$119.4K

$160.2K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Reston, VA is $119,354.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,900.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and several years of experience in industrial automation. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and excellent communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex control systems, which are critical for operational safety, efficiency, and project success.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities a Senior Controls Engineer can expect to handle in a manufacturing environment?

As a Senior Controls Engineer in a manufacturing setting, you can expect to lead the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA. Your responsibilities often include overseeing control system upgrades, optimizing equipment for efficiency, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, production, and IT—to implement solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives. Managing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers are also common aspects of the role.

What are Senior Controls Engineers?

Senior Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, or automation equipment. They are responsible for programming controllers (such as PLCs), troubleshooting control system issues, and ensuring optimal system performance and safety. Senior Controls Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to integrate new technologies. Their expertise is crucial for streamlining production, reducing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Senior Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectSenior Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, troubleshooting, project leadership in industrial or manufacturing settingsImplementing control systems, programming, testing, and maintenance in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles within the same sectors

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Controls Engineers typically lead projects, design complex systems, and mentor junior staff, while Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior role involves more leadership and advanced technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,354 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Tract Capital

Arlington, VA • On-site

$111.60K - $147.30K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Tract Capital adopts a unique approach to digital infrastructure investment. Leveraging experience and strategic insights honed over three decades of creating successful companies in the space, we excel in nurturing and advancing leading-edge digital infrastructure enterprises. Our team of specialized experts are united by a singular purpose: to support the growth of digital infrastructure. Tract Capital goes beyond simple investment by acting as a strategic partner and catalyst for innovation within the sector. We ensure our engagements not only generate strong financial results but also develop essential digital infrastructure to meet growing demands. Tract Capital has introduced multiple digital infrastructure strategies, including horizontal powered land, vertical development, and product development.
The Tract Capital Senior Controls Engineer owns controls discipline design for our behind-the-meter (BTM) generation solutions and integration into Tract's monitoring and command center operations. This role develops controls standards and BOD, coordinates with vendors and product teams, and ensures OT systems meet reliability, cybersecurity, and operational requirements for mission-critical environments.
How will you make a difference?
  • Own controls discipline design and Basis of Design (BOD) for BTM generation systems, including PLC/RTU architecture, network design, telemetry points, alarms, and historian requirements.
  • Coordinate with Power Generation equipment (Reciprocating Engines, Turbines, Fuel Cells, Batteries etc.) vendors on control panels, engine controllers, switchgear controls, and ancillary skids to ensure consistent interfaces and robust fault handling.
  • Define integration requirements to our monitoring systems (dashboards, alarm priorities, escalation paths, and runbooks) and ensure clear demarcation of responsibilities during incidents.
  • Partner with Product and Security to align cybersecurity requirements (segmentation, access control, logging, secure remote access) with customer and enterprise standards.
  • Support commissioning, controls validation, and site acceptance testing; troubleshoot issues related to sequencing, protection interfaces, and communications.
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), modes of operation (MOPs), and change-control practices for controls modifications and setpoint management.
  • Establish KPIs for controls performance and reliability (nuisance alarm rate, comms uptime, MTTR) and drive continuous improvement.
  • Support after-action reviews and root cause analysis for controls-related events; implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline.
  • 7+ years in industrial controls/OT engineering, SCADA integration, or mission-critical controls for generation/power systems.

Required Qualifications
  • Proven ownership of controls discipline design and Basis of Design (BOD) for complex industrial or mission-critical power systems (PLC/RTU architecture, networks, alarms, historian).
  • Demonstrated experience integrating controls/OT systems with centralized monitoring or command center platforms, including alarm prioritization and runbook alignment.
  • Hands-on experience supporting commissioning, controls validation, and site acceptance testing, including troubleshooting sequencing, protection interface, and communications issues.
  • Track record establishing and maintaining SOPs, MOPs, and change-control practices for controls logic, setpoints, and configuration changes.
  • Experience defining and tracking controls performance KPIs (e.g., nuisance alarm rate, communications uptime, MTTR) and driving corrective actions through post-incident reviews and root cause analysis.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with generation controls, paralleling/synchronizing systems, and integration with protection relays and switchgear.
  • Experience implementing OT security best practices (IEC 62443 concepts, secure remote access, network hardening).
  • Familiarity with common industrial protocols (Modbus, DNP3, OPC-UA) and time synchronization practices.
  • Experience supporting 24/7 operations environments and incident response workflows.

Required Traits
  • Integrity and Ethical Standards: Build trust, ensure fairness, and foster long-term, transparent relationships with suppliers.
  • Effective Communication: The ability to clearly convey expectations and requirements to suppliers and negotiation parties, while understanding their needs and concerns. Comfortable delivering written and verbal presentations to internal leadership teams.
  • Emotional Intelligence (EQ): Ability to understand the emotions, cultural nuances, and motivations of others, while effectively managing one's own emotions during high-pressure negotiations.
  • Strategic Thinking: Recognize how supplier relationships and negotiations align with the broader organizational goals, while aiming for outcomes that benefit both parties.
  • Critical Thinking Skills: Finding innovative solutions and being flexible in addressing unexpected challenges.
  • Analytical Ability: Make data-driven decisions, assess cost structures, and identify potential risks, ensuring informed and strategic outcomes.
  • Influence and Persuasion: Able to effectively advocate for their position, build consensus, and secure favorable agreements without compromising relationships.
  • Operational Paranoia: Anticipate risks, identify vulnerabilities, and proactively implement mechanisms to prevent and minimize disruptions and safeguard safety, security, availability, and scale.
  • Relationship Management: Cultivate trust, collaboration, and long-term partnerships, while building a broad network that provides valuable benchmarking, industry insights, and alternative sourcing options.

Location and Travel
  • Work location is flexible to Seattle, WA, Denver, CO, Austin, TX, or Alexandria, VA.
  • Regular travel, as needed, to offices as well as to meet with Vendors.

Expected Salary Range: $120,000 - $150,000 Salary + Discretionary Bonus.
#LI-Hybr
Tract Capital Employment
Tract Capital employees enjoy competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K program, standard paid holidays, and unlimited PTO.
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties to meet the organization's ongoing needs.
Tract Capital is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance applying for any of our open positions, please contact us at info@tractcapital.com.

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