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

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Job Summary The Senior Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and ...

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · Remote

$99K - $131K/yr

Job Summary The Senior Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and ...

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Job Summary The Senior Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and ...

Eaton's Electrical Engineering Services & Systems division is hiring a Senior Microgrid Controls Engineer. In this role, you'll develop microgrid control solutions for customers across the U.S to ...

As a Senior Automation & Controls Engineer/SME, you will serve as a technical leader responsible for developing and reviewing control system designs, driving engineering excellence, and ensuring ...

... trusted senior staff. With over two decades of experience solving the industry's toughest ... About the Role We seek a Project Controls Engineer to provide scheduling support services to our ...

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$52 - $66.50/hr

You will report to the Senior Manager Control Application Software Development. As a hands-on ... Serve as the Principal controls SW developer designing Fluence's energy storage system control SW ...

The Role Electra.aero is seeking a Principal Flight Controls Engineer to serve as a senior technical authority and flight controls certification subject-matter expert for the EL9 Ultra Short Takeoff ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 12, 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 is a senior controls engineer?

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 are the typical responsibilities of a senior controls engineer 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior controls engineer?

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 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:

Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,354 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

Senior Staff Controls Engineer

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Equinix, Inc.
Software Development • 5 - 10K employees

$99K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform advanced system maintenance and support on control systems.

  • Lead complex projects involving internal and external teams, including design, commissioning, and vendor coordination.

  • Develop and implement policies and procedures related to control systems and ensure adherence to standards.


Equinix rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Who are we?
Equinix is the world's digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.
A place where bold ideas are welcomed, human connection is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to shape their future.
A career at Equinix means being at the center of shaping what comes next and amplifying customer value through innovation and impact. You'll work across teams, influence key decisions, and help shape the path forward. You'll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you-because when you feel valued, you're empowered to do your best work.
Job Summary
The Senior Staff Controls Engineer performs advanced system maintenance and support. Leads complex projects using internal and external resources. Assists with development and implementation of policies and procedures. Effectively interacts with other internal and external teams, including the design engineering, site engineering, regional operations teams, onsite support vendors and consultants on projects, policies and procedures to resolve complex matters.
Responsibilities
System Operation and Work Practices
  • Expert operating knowledge of control systems to include advanced diagnostics and repairs
  • Ability to apply knowledge of Equinix process and procedure and industry standards to resolve complex issues
  • Utilizes safe working practices at an expert level (e.g. can apply procedure for lockout/tagout, can explain MSDS, etc.)
  • Evaluates and assures the safe working practices of others
  • Interacts with other engineering disciplines

Problem Solving
  • Consistently solves complex, cross-functional issues requiring independent action and a high degree of initiative to resolve
  • Implements and makes recommendations for complex system level enhancements to eliminate potential problems
  • Tests suitability of components for deployments on complex assignments

Internal/External Contact
  • Contributes to mentoring junior team members
  • Directs internal and external project team members
  • Directs teams per project or initiative such as General Contractors, design teams, commissioning agents, equipment suppliers, etc.
  • Expert level communication to include cross functional SOP development and relevant technical writing
  • Interactions are primarily to exchange information between departments within the organization
  • Includes executive level communications in standardized templates

Technical Expertise
  • Has thorough understanding of advanced electrical, fire protection, and HVAC systems operation including advanced optimization strategies and deficiencies
  • Has expert controls system knowledge sufficient to rapidly comprehend new systems
  • Is a subject matter expert to others in and outside of the group
  • Extensive knowledge of multiple facets of controls engineering
  • Develops and executes projects
  • Reviews budget and scope, calculates savings pertaining to control system replacement projects
  • Tests suitability of components or action plans for deployments
  • Understands of server operating systems, networks, and cyber security best practices

Training
  • Acquires knowledge by expanding experience with systems, vendor training, participation in industry groups or meetings and shadowing others
  • Is SME with many systems and trains others inside and outside of the group

Develop Policy/Methods
  • Participates in review of and contributes to development of policy and procedure documents

Assess Adherence to Policy
  • Assures adherence to developed standards and policy through review of documentation, participation in commissioning activities and Data Center physicals

Qualifications
  • Typically 5+ years in control system design, operations, maintenance, and project planning with a emphasis and special focus on controls preferred.
  • Bachelors degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Controls, Mechatronics, or related discipline is preferred.
  • Experience in highly automated environments (automotive, semiconductors, high-volume manufacturing), Data Center Technical Engineering and Operations support is preferred.
  • Knowledge of electrical, HVAC controls systems
  • Knowledge of PLC Ttroubleshooting and Programming.
  • Ability to lead complex system troubleshooting, upgrades, commissioning, and vendor evaluation.

The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:
United States - DC6 Washington DC : 130,000 - 194,000 USD / Annual
United States - DA6 Dallas : 118,000 - 176,000 USD / Annual
United States - NY4 New York City : 130,000 - 194,000 USD / Annual
Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location.The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.
The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.
Equinix Benefits
As an employee, you become important to Equinix's success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we're providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you'll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.
Employee Assistance Program: An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.
US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.
Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing this form.
Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.
We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here
This posting is for a backfill position, meaning it is to fill an existing vacancy within our organization.

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