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Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Charlottesville, VA ยท 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 ...

Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$102K - $114K/yr

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for maintaining, upgrading, and optimizing the control ... level I- Senior, based on experience. Engineer I: The annual base salary range for this role is ...

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for maintaining, upgrading, and optimizing the control ... level I- Senior, based on experience. Engineer I: The annual base salary range for this role is ...

Eng Sr - Controls

Radford, VA ยท On-site

$88K - $149K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Control Systems Engineer to join a team responsible for the design ... This includes PLC/DCS (Distributed Control System) controls, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs ...

The Controls Engineer works closely with a small, collaborative team that includes senior engineers and technical staff, in a setting that emphasizes growth, knowledge sharing, and standardized ...

Principal Controls Engineer

Arlington, VA

$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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 19, 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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Sr Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Sr Controls Engineer job openings:
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.

Controls Engineer

Sehinc

Charlottesville, VA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Imagine being an employee-owner of a company guided by engaged and empowered team members like yourself. Where a culture of respect, flexibility, and accountability aren't just ideals - they're our foundation, and diverse backgrounds and perspectives are valued as drivers of innovation and growth. Join us, as together, we are Building a Better World for All of Us.

You belong at SEHSEH is currenting searching for a Controls Engineer to join our talented Mechanical/Electrical team!

Why our employee-owners love SEH:

  • "I was on vacation last week and had zero concerns that my colleagues would help out with anything that came into my inbox!" - GIS Analyst

  • "What company has a CEO who cares enough to seek out one-on-one conversations ranging from 'How are you?' to 'What do you think would help the company?' SEH, that's who. " - Civil Engineering Technician

  • "Having the feeling that my voice matters and believing that SEH truly cares about the employees is so satisfying!" - Sr Financial Analyst

  • "It feels good having colleagues and supervisors that provide support and resources for growth and learning!" - Civil Engineer

  • "This is the first company I've worked for with a true entrepreneurial spirit." - Sr Mechanical Engineer

Why you'll love SEH:

  • Collaborate on amazing projects of varying size and complexity that positively impact communities

  • Being 100% employee-owned means we all share in the company's success

  • Career development through continued education, licensure/certification, skills, and technical training

  • Work arrangements that promote work/life balance

  • Flexible holidays enable individuals to tailor their festivities

  • Paid Family Leave provides time to care for loved ones, whether family by birth or family by choice

This Opportunity:

  • This remote position can be located in the Charlottesville, VA area, or surrounding areas or Remote in Minnesota. This opportunity is also open to candidates wanting to work Hybrid residing in the following areas: St Paul, MN, Duluth, MN, Minnetonka, MN, Mankato, MN, Rochester, MN, Brainerd, MN, or Hudson, WI.

  • Work with clients to assess plant control systems and develop the project approach.

  • Prepare project design/bidding documents including P&ID drawings, system network drawings, controls specifications, process narratives, and software and hardware selection.

  • Program PLCs, OITs and SCADA systems, tune processes for proper operation, and work with clients on the implementation of process control narratives.

  • Work directly with plant staff to implement new control strategies in existing systems to improve plant performance, and to incorporate new processes and instruments into the control system programming.

  • Team with outside integration companies to support overall project goals.

  • Manage project deliverables for client expectations.

  • Work directly with clients to diagnose and correct system faults, process control issues, and programming issues..

  • Preform Commissioning activities as directed

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics or related from an accredited college.

  • Technical experience in preparing design documents for bidding and supporting construction administration services.

  • PLC ladder logic programming, tag development, HMI/OIT system development.

  • Knowledge of process controls system commissioning and controls system commissioning.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Ability to work alone and with a team of professionals and clients.

  • Ability to travel as needed for team meetings, client consultations, on-site project visits, control system startups, and onsite support.

  • GE/Emmerson PME PLC programming experience is required

  • GE/Emmerson Cimplicty programming experience is required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with Ignition (with Gold Certification).

  • 5 to 15 years professional experience.

  • Licensed Professional Engineer, or ability to become licensed.

  • Experience with water and wastewater utilities

  • Project management experience, or interest in learning


Who We Are

Better Places. Clean Water. Renewing Infrastructure. Improving Mobility. SEH is an employee-owned engineering, architectural, planning, and environmental company, offering a wide variety of services. We've been helping government, industrial, and commercial clients find solutions to complex challenges since 1927. Our 900+ employee-owners across the US unite behind our core purpose of Building a Better World for All of Us.

Base compensation is expected to be in the range of $90,000 and $125,000 based on skill set and experience. Check out our full benefits package at SEH Hiring Journey.

Due to current business and operational considerations, unable to hire employees residing in the following states at this time: AK, AR, CA, CT, DE, HI, KY, MA, RI, VT, and PR.Candidates willing to relocate should indicate this in their application.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future.

SEH is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We take affirmative action to ensure that all employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Notice to Third Party Agencies: SEH does not accept unsolicited resumes from third party recruiting firms. Absent a signed Service Agreement by SEH's Talent Director, SEH reserves the right to pursue and hire these candidates without financial obligation to recruiters or agencies.

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