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Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in Washington (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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Sr Controls Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$81.5K

$129.9K

$174.4K

How much do sr controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr controls engineer in Washington is $129,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,900.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr Controls Engineer?

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Sr Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Sr Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Controls Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,937 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Controls and Automation Engineer

Altus Technology Solutions

Indian Head, MD

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Location: Indian Head, MD

Schedule (FT/PT): Full Time

Travel Required: No

Shift: Day

Remote Type: No Remote

Clearance: Active U.S. DoD SECRET Security Clearance

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline

Years of Experience: 8+ years of relevant electrical engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, automation, or process-oriented environments

Salary Information: $150,000 - $180,000 per year

Description

Altus Technology Solutions is seeking a Senior Controls and Automation Engineer to support a high-impact program at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD) that delivers technical expertise in energetics development, manufacturing, and facility modernization in support of national defense programs.

The Senior Controls and Automation Engineer supports Engineering Change and Modernization Projects (ECMP) involving industrial control systems, manufacturing process improvements, facility modernization efforts, and implementation of new production capabilities supporting energetics and munitions manufacturing operations, while contributing to engineering, manufacturing, safety, laboratory, and project management activities associated with energetic materials operations and modernization initiatives.

The ideal candidate will possess strong experience with industrial automation systems, electrical control system design, PLC-based control architectures, manufacturing process support, and modernization of production systems. The successful candidate will collaborate with engineers, production personnel, government stakeholders, equipment vendors, and project teams to develop, integrate, test, and sustain manufacturing control systems in complex production environments.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, integrate, and support industrial electrical and control systems for manufacturing and production environments.

  • Support Engineering Change and Modernization Projects (ECMP) involving installation of new manufacturing capabilities and upgrades to existing production systems.

  • Develop electrical and control system designs, schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.

  • Utilize EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical to create and maintain engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and design packages.

  • Design, configure, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC-based automation systems.

  • Support implementation and integration of Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell Automation software suites.

  • Perform system testing, validation, commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities for control systems and production equipment.

  • Develop and execute test plans to validate electrical and control system functionality and performance.

  • Collaborate with equipment vendors, subcontractors, and technical stakeholders to support fabrication, installation, testing, and startup activities.

  • Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities for process improvement, automation, efficiency gains, and system optimization.

  • Provide technical support for electrical systems, instrumentation, automation equipment, and production control systems.

  • Develop technical specifications, equipment bills of material, operating procedures, test plans, test reports, and engineering documentation.

  • Support facility modernization efforts and installation of new manufacturing processes and equipment.

  • Provide technical input into facility design and advise on safety standards and regulations associated with electrical systems supporting manufacturing process facilities.

  • Participate in design reviews, technical reviews, project planning activities, and customer meetings.

  • Coordinate technical activities across multidisciplinary engineering, manufacturing, safety, and production teams.

  • Ensure compliance with applicable safety standards, quality requirements, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements.

  • Perform other duties as assigned to support operational and organizational objectives.

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline.

  • Minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible electrical engineering experience.

  • Experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, production, or process-oriented environments.

  • Experience with industrial control systems, automation technologies, and PLC-based systems.

  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell Automation software platforms.

  • Experience creating electrical schematics and engineering documentation using AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN.

  • Experience troubleshooting electrical, automation, and control systems.

  • Experience supporting installation, testing, commissioning, and startup of industrial equipment and systems.

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to work effectively with government personnel, vendors, subcontractors, and multidisciplinary teams.

  • U.S. Citizenship.

  • Active U.S. DoD SECRET Security Clearance.

Preferred:

  • Experience supporting Department of Defense manufacturing, industrial, or research facilities.

  • Experience with hydraulics and pneumatics systems.

  • Experience supporting energetics, ammunition, munitions, or explosives manufacturing operations.

  • Experience with process safety and material handling requirements.

  • Experience integrating PLCs, HMIs, instrumentation, sensors, and industrial networking systems.

  • Experience supporting facility modernization, production expansion, or capital improvement projects.

  • Active Top Secret clearance or eligibility for higher levels of access.

  • Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field.

Conditions of Employment:

Employment in this position is contingent upon the successful completion, attainment, and continued maintenance of all required medical and safety qualifications.

  • DOT Medical Physical:Successfully complete a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical physical and obtain andmaintaina valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MCSA-5876).
  • Ordnance Handling Physical: Successfully complete and maintain the required ordnance handling physical/medical qualification.
  • Ordnance Handling Certification: Successfully obtain and maintain the required ordnance handling certification for the position and assigned duties.
  • Respirator Medical Clearance: Successfully complete the required medical evaluation and obtain and maintain medical clearance to wear required respiratory protection.
  • Pulmonary Function Test (PFT): Successfully complete required pulmonary function testing (PFT)/spirometry for respirator qualification.

All requirements above are conditions of employment and continued employment in this position. Failure to successfully complete, obtain, or maintain any required qualification will result in the employee being unable to meet the conditions of employment for the position and may result in termination of employment, subject to applicable law.

About Altus

Since 2004, Altus Technology Solutions has been committed to providing top-quality, performance-driven services to both government and commercial clients. As an ISO 9001:2015 Certified firm, Altus integrates proven solutions with industry-leading practices to tackle mission-critical challenges.

Learn more at www.Altusts.com.

Pay and Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience

  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • Retirement savings plan with employer contributions

  • Income protection through short- and long-term disability insurance

  • Education assistance for professional growth

  • Flexible paid leave and career advancement opportunities

Commitment to Equal Opportunity Employment

Altus Technology Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws. As a federal contractor, we are committed to hiring and retaining a workforce that includes individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process, please contact recruiting@altusts.com.

Protecting Your Information

We never request payment or personal banking details during the hiring process. If you encounter suspicious emails, contact us at support@altusts.com immediately.

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