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Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tract Capital

Senior Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$111K - $147K/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.

Altria Group, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer I

Richmond, VA · On-site

$91K - $128K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer I Req Id: 2344 Work Model: On-Site Company: Philip Morris USA State/Province: Virginia Together We Innovate. Together We Change. Are you seeking an opportunity that involves ...

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

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

IPL (Indiana)

Senior Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$111K - $147K/yr

Position Summary The Senior Controls Engineer will lead the design, testing, commissioning, and continuous improvement of plant-level control systems for utility-scale solar and battery energy ...

Amazon

Sr. Controls Engineer

Herndon, VA

$99K - $131K/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 · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

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

TAI

Senior Plant Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA

$120K - $175K/yr

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects, implement control system upgrades, and troubleshoot complex automation challenges across a diverse set ...

TAI

Senior Plant Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects, implement control system upgrades, and troubleshoot complex automation challenges across a diverse set ...

Daikinapplied

Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer

Staunton, VA · Hybrid

$95K - $125K/yr

The Sr. Model Based Controls Engineer will design, modify, develop, and implement software programming applications for HVAC equipment with focus on Model Based Controls design. The work includes new ...

Sehinc

Controls Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

... " - Sr Financial Analyst * "It feels good having colleagues and supervisors that provide support ... programming, tag development, HMI/OIT system development. * Knowledge of process controls system ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSr Controls Engineer JobsSr Controls Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Sr Controls Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$71.4K

$113.7K

$152.7K

How much do sr controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr controls engineer in Virginia is $113,740.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $126,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and cross-functional collaboration can a Sr Controls Engineer expect in this role?

As a Sr Controls Engineer, you will typically lead or contribute to projects involving the design, implementation, and optimization of automation systems. Collaboration is common with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, and operations personnel, to ensure seamless integration of control systems. You may also work closely with project managers and clients to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver solutions that align with production goals. This role often involves balancing technical problem-solving with strong communication skills to coordinate across departments.

What are Sr Controls Engineers?

Sr Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or other industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery operates efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming PLCs, troubleshooting system issues, leading projects, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Senior-level controls engineers also mentor junior staff and contribute to the strategic improvement of automation processes.

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

To thrive as a Sr Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems design, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant industry experience. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These qualifications ensure effective system integration, reliable automation solutions, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

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

AspectSr Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering; often 5+ years experience; certifications like PLC or automation certificationsBachelor's in relevant engineering; 1-3 years experience; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsSimilar industrial settings, project-based work, automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control industriesManufacturing, industrial automation, equipment design

The main difference between a Sr Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and expertise. Sr Controls Engineers typically have more years of experience, handle complex automation projects, and may mentor junior staff. Controls Engineers are often earlier in their careers, focusing on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles are vital in industrial automation and share similar work environments and industry applications.

What are popular job titles related to Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Sr Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sr Controls Engineer job openings:
Sr Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sr Controls Engineer job openings in Virginia 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 $113,740 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Tract Capital

Arlington, VA • On-site

$111K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 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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