Controls Engineer Jobs in Maryland
Controls Engineer jobs in Maryland concentrate in defense systems, manufacturing automation, and federal government contracting, with demand at every level from entry-level PLC programmer to senior systems architect. Baltimore, the DC suburbs of Bethesda and Rockville, and the Aberdeen Proving Ground corridor are the busiest hiring areas, with employers like Northrop Grumman, Leidos, and Constellation Energy consistently recruiting controls engineers across the state. Instrumentation and control, SCADA systems, and DCS integration are the most in-demand specialties right now. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 4 of 46+ Controls Engineer jobs
X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/ . We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us .
Job Description
Our Senior Instrumentation and Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting the design and development of instrumentation and controls (I&C) through all phases of the design lifecycle, including testing, analysis, and implementation of hardware according to the design requirements.Responsibilities
- I&C design for process systems (controls, instrumentation, data collection, electro-mechanical, automation & robotics, connectivity).
- Work with system and mechanical engineers, designers, and analysts on development of detailed design.
- Support mechanical engineers in developing process flow diagrams, and piping and instrumentation diagrams.
- Interface with Architectural and Engineering firms, as needed, to support development/implementation of I&C system(s).
- Functional Requirement and procurement specifications for instrumentation and control systems.
- Process instrumentation design, specification, and procurement oversight.
- Control Systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and more to improve the functionality of the client’s plant.
- Develop control logic narratives, control logic diagrams, and control logic schematic diagrams.
- Develop panel wiring and interconnect cabling diagrams.
- Create or oversee the development of human machine interface (HMI) screens.
- Develop specifications for Programmable Logic Control (PLC) or Distributed Control systems (DCS) and components and instrumentation. Develop control logic code and implementation on PLCs/DCS.
- Author I&C system hardware descriptions including requirements, functional specifications, and I&C system architecture descriptions.
- Develops troubleshooting plans and failure mode analysis documents to support design reviews.
- Author factory acceptance test procedures.
- Write guidance for instrument checking, calibration, and testing.
- Develop instrument check, calibration, and testing program.
- Participate in system Process Hazards Analysis.
- Directly interfaces with other workgroups (e.g., System Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Radiation Protection, Cyber Security).
- Assists relevant teams in resolving I&C design issues.
- Provide guidance, as a mentor, in the development of less experienced instrumentation and controls design engineers.
- Lead reviews and presentations for internal company design reviews and customer design reviews regarding I&C design.
- Preparation and review of design change packages and design calculations (e.g., load flow, short circuit, protective device coordination, etc.) in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Assist Project management leadership in developing detailed schedules and resolving planning issues for I&C design activities.
- Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities, listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and complete latitude for independent judgement.
- Implement process management to deliver high quality I&C design support to the organization.
- In collaboration with engineering leadership, set technical direction at the enterprise level through developing and owning technology or discipline specific roadmaps, best practices, and/or design criteria.
- Maintain professional demeanor and behavior at all times in all forms of communication. Perform other duties as assigned by manager.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, controls engineering, instrumentation, electrical engineering, electronic engineering, or electrical computer engineering, or related discipline from an accredited university or college.
- Typically, twenty years of experience in an engineering role required.A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.
- Experience in application or development of software codes or standards.
- Knowledge or experience in software engineering, software development, or utilization of a software development toolset.
Compensation
As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.
Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual’s qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth. The salary range for this position is:
$188,750 - $212,500Position Job Classification
Full time - ExemptBenefits
X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.
Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)
E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish
X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/ . We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us .
Job Description
Our Senior Instrumentation and Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting the design and development of instrumentation and controls (I&C) through all phases of the design lifecycle, including testing, analysis, and implementation of hardware according to the design requirements.Responsibilities
- I&C design for process systems (controls, instrumentation, data collection, electro-mechanical, automation & robotics, connectivity).
- Work with system and mechanical engineers, designers, and analysts on development of detailed design.
- Support mechanical engineers in developing process flow diagrams, and piping and instrumentation diagrams.
- Interface with Architectural and Engineering firms, as needed, to support development/implementation of I&C system(s).
- Functional Requirement and procurement specifications for instrumentation and control systems.
- Process instrumentation design, specification, and procurement oversight.
- Control Systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and more to improve the functionality of the client’s plant.
- Develop control logic narratives, control logic diagrams, and control logic schematic diagrams.
- Develop panel wiring and interconnect cabling diagrams.
- Create or oversee the development of human machine interface (HMI) screens.
- Develop specifications for Programmable Logic Control (PLC) or Distributed Control systems (DCS) and components and instrumentation. Develop control logic code and implementation on PLCs/DCS.
- Author I&C system hardware descriptions including requirements, functional specifications, and I&C system architecture descriptions.
- Develops troubleshooting plans and failure mode analysis documents to support design reviews.
- Author factory acceptance test procedures.
- Write guidance for instrument checking, calibration, and testing.
- Develop instrument check, calibration, and testing program.
- Participate in system Process Hazards Analysis.
- Directly interfaces with other workgroups (e.g., System Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Radiation Protection, Cyber Security).
- Assists relevant teams in resolving I&C design issues.
- Provide guidance, as a mentor, in the development of less experienced instrumentation and controls design engineers.
- Lead reviews and presentations for internal company design reviews and customer design reviews regarding I&C design.
- Preparation and review of design change packages and design calculations (e.g., load flow, short circuit, protective device coordination, etc.) in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Assist Project management leadership in developing detailed schedules and resolving planning issues for I&C design activities.
- Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities, listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and complete latitude for independent judgement.
- Implement process management to deliver high quality I&C design support to the organization.
- In collaboration with engineering leadership, set technical direction at the enterprise level through developing and owning technology or discipline specific roadmaps, best practices, and/or design criteria.
- Maintain professional demeanor and behavior at all times in all forms of communication. Perform other duties as assigned by manager.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, controls engineering, instrumentation, electrical engineering, electronic engineering, or electrical computer engineering, or related discipline from an accredited university or college.
- Typically, twenty years of experience in an engineering role required.A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.
- Experience in application or development of software codes or standards.
- Knowledge or experience in software engineering, software development, or utilization of a software development toolset.
Compensation
As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.
Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual’s qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth. The salary range for this position is:
$188,750 - $212,500Position Job Classification
Full time - ExemptBenefits
X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.
Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)
E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish
See All 46 Controls Engineer Jobs in Maryland
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Find Controls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs by City in Maryland
Where Maryland roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Controls Engineer Job Market in Maryland
A snapshot from current Maryland openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Energy
- Retail
- Technology & Software
What Maryland Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in controls engineer jobs across Maryland.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or controls engineering required by most Maryland employers
- Proficiency with PLC programming in platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider Electric
- Experience designing or maintaining SCADA or DCS systems in industrial or utility environments
- Familiarity with ISA standards and control panel design per NEC and NFPA 70 requirements
- Professional Engineer license issued or recognized by the Maryland State Board of Professional Engineers preferred for senior roles
- Active or obtainable security clearance for positions supporting Maryland defense and federal government contractors
Controls Engineer Jobs in Maryland: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a controls engineer in Maryland?
A bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or controls engineering is the standard starting point for Maryland employers. Senior and project-lead roles often require licensure as a Professional Engineer through the Maryland State Board of Professional Engineers and Surveyors, which involves passing the Fundamentals of Engineering and Principles and Practice exams. Certifications like the ISA Certified Control Systems Technician or Certified Automation Professional credential are recognized as strong differentiators by Maryland defense contractors and utilities.
How much do controls engineers make in Maryland?
Controls engineers in Maryland earn a median of about $119,930 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $80,650 for the lowest 10% to over $168,100 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire controls engineers in Maryland?
Companies currently hiring controls engineers in Maryland include Intralox, X-Energy, and Critical Systems, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Maryland's mix of defense contractors, utilities, and biotech manufacturers makes it one of the more varied controls engineering markets on the East Coast.
Which Maryland cities have the most controls engineer jobs?
Baltimore, Frederick, and Rockville have the most controls engineer openings in Maryland. Baltimore anchors demand through its manufacturing base, utilities like Constellation Energy, and biotech facilities, while the DC-adjacent suburbs of Bethesda and Rockville draw openings from federal agencies and defense contractors, and the Aberdeen and Annapolis areas add volume from military installation projects and systems integrators.
Are there remote controls engineer jobs in Maryland?
Yes, but they're rare. Controls engineering is predominantly hands-on, requiring on-site commissioning, equipment testing, and panel integration that cannot be done remotely. About 64% of controls engineer openings tied to Maryland are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions typically cover design, documentation, and programming review rather than field work.
How can I get hired as a controls engineer in Maryland with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an internship or rotational program with one of Maryland's large defense or utility employers, where entry-level roles in instrumentation, electrical maintenance, or automation technician positions regularly convert into full controls engineering careers. Northrop Grumman and Constellation Energy both run structured early-career engineering programs in Maryland. Candidates who hold a Fundamentals of Engineering certification, have PLC coursework, or come from adjacent roles like electrical technician or field service engineer stand out in Maryland's competitive market.
Where can I find and apply to controls engineer jobs in Maryland?
You can find and apply to controls engineer jobs in Maryland on Migrate Mate, which lists current Maryland openings across defense, manufacturing, utilities, and biotech sectors. Search the listings for roles that match your experience level and specialty, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 46 Controls Engineer Jobs in Maryland
Find roles in Maryland that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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