Controls Technician Jobs in Virginia
Controls Technician jobs in Virginia are in strong demand, with hiring concentrated in defense systems, building automation, manufacturing, and federal government contracting across a market that runs from entry-level field technicians through senior control systems engineers. The busiest hiring corridors are Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads, where established employers like Northrop Grumman, Siemens, and BAE Systems maintain long-term operations and recurring workforce needs. Programmable logic controller expertise, HVAC controls, and industrial automation are the specialties drawing the most consistent interest from Virginia employers. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Controls Technician JobsOverview
Open roles41
Top employerAmazon
Top citySterling, VA
Cities hiring26
Work type90% On-site
Top industryRetail
Showing 5 of 41+ Controls Technician jobs
Shipboard Controls Technician
We won't show you this job again
Added 6d ago
Noblis
Shipboard Controls Technician
Norfolk, Virginia
Added 6d ago
C
HVAC Controls Service Technician
We won't show you this job again
C
Added 6d ago
C&J Building Solutions
HVAC Controls Service Technician
Glen Allen, Virginia
Added 6d ago
Industrial Controls Technician Apprentice
We won't show you this job again
Added 1w ago
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Industrial Controls Technician Apprentice
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Virginia
Added 1w ago
Controls Technician, Data Center Capacity Delivery
We won't show you this job again
Added 1w ago
Amazon.com
Controls Technician, Data Center Capacity Delivery
Aldie, Virginia
Added 1w ago
HVAC Controls Technician
We won't show you this job again
Added 1w ago
Riddleberger Brothers, Inc
HVAC Controls Technician
Mount Crawford, Virginia
Added 1w ago
Added 6d ago
Shipboard Controls Technician
Noblis·Norfolk, Virginia
Job functions:
$53k - $83k/yr
On-Site
High school diploma or GED
1,001-5,000 employees
Job Description
Responsibilities:
We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org
Why Work at Noblis
At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission‑driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.
Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well‑being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug‑free workplace.
Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination:
If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.
Total Rewards:
Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.
Posted Salary Range: USD $53,280.00 - USD $83,320.00 /Yr.
Noblis MSD's mission is to support the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) in enabling research, development, test and evaluation, acquisition, engineering, systems integration, in-service support, and fleet engineering with cybersecurity, comprehensive logistics, and life-cycle savings. We are seeking an Engineering Technician based in Norfolk, Virginia, to support U.S. Navy machinery control and shipboard systems for Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
The candidate will provide waterfront support for the installation, checkout, troubleshooting, testing, and verification and validation (V&V) of modernized Machinery Control Systems (MCS). This is a primarily onsite position supporting work aboard ships and at shipyards and naval stations. When the employee is not aboard ship, the waterfront work environment may include shared trailer workspace. This is not a remote position, although limited remote work during ship-installation downtime may be approved on a case-by-case basis.
During active ship availabilities, the typical schedule is 10-hour days Monday through Friday and an 8-hour day on Saturday. Hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek are compensated at straight time. Work schedules may shift based on ship installation and test requirements.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Troubleshoot machinery control systems using test equipment, system documentation, and electrical schematics.
- Provide shipboard test and V&V support for all variants of fielded systems.
- Support shipboard installation, checkout, and testing of MCS software and hardware.
- Trace signals and diagnose or isolate electrical failures and system anomalies.
- Use electrical and diagnostic test equipment, including digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and signal generators, to support system testing and troubleshooting.
- Develop, edit, review, and implement test procedures and other technical documentation.
- Review technical documentation for fielded and future system configurations.
- Provide clear, documented status updates and maintain accurate records of testing, troubleshooting actions, and findings.
- Act as a liaison between the Norfolk waterfront test team and technical leads in Philadelphia.
- Provide field observations and technical input to support improvements to future MCS installations.
- Participate in special projects and other program support activities as required.
- Bachelors degree OR High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 or more years of experience as an electrical technician or field technician supporting control systems in an industrial environment.
- Demonstrated ability to read and understand electrical schematics and trouble-shoot electrical or control systems.
- Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
- Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one upon position acceptance.
- Ability to work primarily onsite in Norfolk, Virginia, aboard U.S. Navy ships and at shipyards and naval stations.
- Ability to work extended hours, off-hours, and weekends as required to meet ship installation and test schedules.
- Ability to travel approximately 30-50% of the time.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Employees working in naval industrial environments, whether shipboard or pierside, must meet certain physical requirements to safely perform essential job functions. Individuals must be capable of standing and walking for extended periods, often on uneven, wet, or slippery surfaces, and must be able to climb vertical ladders, stairs, and steep inclines while carrying tools or equipment. The position requires the ability to work in confined spaces with limited ventilation and restricted movement, including crawling through narrow passageways and working in overhead or below-deck areas.
Workers must possess sufficient manual dexterity and grip strength to operate hand and power tools, manipulate controls, and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis, with occasional lifting of heavier objects with assistance. The role demands the physical ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach overhead repeatedly throughout the workday. Adequate vision is necessary to read technical manuals, identify color-coded systems, and detect safety hazards, while hearing capability must be sufficient to perceive warning signals, alarms, and verbal communications in noisy environments, with or without hearing protection.
Employees must be able to work in varying environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, high humidity, direct sunlight, and exposure to weather elements. The position requires the stamina to work extended shifts and the balance and coordination necessary to maintain stability on moving vessels. Workers must be capable of responding quickly to emergency situations, including evacuating confined spaces and moving to emergency stations. Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities who can perform the essential functions of the position with or without such accommodations.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience tracing signals and diagnosing or isolating the cause of electrical failures and anomalies.
- Experience with grounded and ungrounded electrical systems.
- Knowledge of basic electrical principles, including current, voltage, and resistance, and their application in circuit troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of the fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures associated with industrial control systems.
- Experience with Versa Module Eurocard (VME) systems.
- Experience with Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems.
- Basic knowledge of network troubleshooting tools and techniques.
- Experience using HyperTerminal, PuTTY, or an equivalent serial interface.
- Experience using Wireshark for network data capture, analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and general computer and laptop operations.
- Technical writing ability and attention to detail in documenting testing, troubleshooting steps, and findings.
- U.S. Navy shipboard experience within an engineering department.
- Ability to work independently, complete tasks efficiently, and communicate effectively within an integrated team environment.
Overview
Noblis and our wholly owned subsidiaries, Noblis ESI and Noblis MSD, take on some of the nation’s toughest challenges, delivering advanced solutions to our customers’ most critical missions. We bring together leading scientific, engineering, and management expertise in a culture grounded in objectivity and collaboration, ensuring our work creates lasting impact across federal missions.
We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org
Why Work at Noblis
At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission‑driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.
Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well‑being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug‑free workplace.
Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.
EEO is the Law | E-Verify | Right to Work
Total Rewards:
At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Benefits page on our Careers site.
Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.
Posted Salary Range: USD $53,280.00 - USD $83,320.00 /Yr.
Noblis
Shipboard Controls Technician
Norfolk, Virginia
Added 6d ago1,001-5,000 employees
Job functions:
$53k - $83k/yr
On-Site
High school diploma or GED
Job Description
Responsibilities:
We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org
Why Work at Noblis
At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission‑driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.
Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well‑being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug‑free workplace.
Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination:
If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.
Total Rewards:
Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.
Posted Salary Range: USD $53,280.00 - USD $83,320.00 /Yr.
Noblis MSD's mission is to support the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) in enabling research, development, test and evaluation, acquisition, engineering, systems integration, in-service support, and fleet engineering with cybersecurity, comprehensive logistics, and life-cycle savings. We are seeking an Engineering Technician based in Norfolk, Virginia, to support U.S. Navy machinery control and shipboard systems for Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
The candidate will provide waterfront support for the installation, checkout, troubleshooting, testing, and verification and validation (V&V) of modernized Machinery Control Systems (MCS). This is a primarily onsite position supporting work aboard ships and at shipyards and naval stations. When the employee is not aboard ship, the waterfront work environment may include shared trailer workspace. This is not a remote position, although limited remote work during ship-installation downtime may be approved on a case-by-case basis.
During active ship availabilities, the typical schedule is 10-hour days Monday through Friday and an 8-hour day on Saturday. Hours worked beyond the standard 40-hour workweek are compensated at straight time. Work schedules may shift based on ship installation and test requirements.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Troubleshoot machinery control systems using test equipment, system documentation, and electrical schematics.
- Provide shipboard test and V&V support for all variants of fielded systems.
- Support shipboard installation, checkout, and testing of MCS software and hardware.
- Trace signals and diagnose or isolate electrical failures and system anomalies.
- Use electrical and diagnostic test equipment, including digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and signal generators, to support system testing and troubleshooting.
- Develop, edit, review, and implement test procedures and other technical documentation.
- Review technical documentation for fielded and future system configurations.
- Provide clear, documented status updates and maintain accurate records of testing, troubleshooting actions, and findings.
- Act as a liaison between the Norfolk waterfront test team and technical leads in Philadelphia.
- Provide field observations and technical input to support improvements to future MCS installations.
- Participate in special projects and other program support activities as required.
- Bachelors degree OR High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 or more years of experience as an electrical technician or field technician supporting control systems in an industrial environment.
- Demonstrated ability to read and understand electrical schematics and trouble-shoot electrical or control systems.
- Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain a DoD Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
- Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one upon position acceptance.
- Ability to work primarily onsite in Norfolk, Virginia, aboard U.S. Navy ships and at shipyards and naval stations.
- Ability to work extended hours, off-hours, and weekends as required to meet ship installation and test schedules.
- Ability to travel approximately 30-50% of the time.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Employees working in naval industrial environments, whether shipboard or pierside, must meet certain physical requirements to safely perform essential job functions. Individuals must be capable of standing and walking for extended periods, often on uneven, wet, or slippery surfaces, and must be able to climb vertical ladders, stairs, and steep inclines while carrying tools or equipment. The position requires the ability to work in confined spaces with limited ventilation and restricted movement, including crawling through narrow passageways and working in overhead or below-deck areas.
Workers must possess sufficient manual dexterity and grip strength to operate hand and power tools, manipulate controls, and handle materials weighing up to 50 pounds on a regular basis, with occasional lifting of heavier objects with assistance. The role demands the physical ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach overhead repeatedly throughout the workday. Adequate vision is necessary to read technical manuals, identify color-coded systems, and detect safety hazards, while hearing capability must be sufficient to perceive warning signals, alarms, and verbal communications in noisy environments, with or without hearing protection.
Employees must be able to work in varying environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures, high humidity, direct sunlight, and exposure to weather elements. The position requires the stamina to work extended shifts and the balance and coordination necessary to maintain stability on moving vessels. Workers must be capable of responding quickly to emergency situations, including evacuating confined spaces and moving to emergency stations. Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities who can perform the essential functions of the position with or without such accommodations.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience tracing signals and diagnosing or isolating the cause of electrical failures and anomalies.
- Experience with grounded and ungrounded electrical systems.
- Knowledge of basic electrical principles, including current, voltage, and resistance, and their application in circuit troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of the fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures associated with industrial control systems.
- Experience with Versa Module Eurocard (VME) systems.
- Experience with Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) systems.
- Basic knowledge of network troubleshooting tools and techniques.
- Experience using HyperTerminal, PuTTY, or an equivalent serial interface.
- Experience using Wireshark for network data capture, analysis, and troubleshooting.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and general computer and laptop operations.
- Technical writing ability and attention to detail in documenting testing, troubleshooting steps, and findings.
- U.S. Navy shipboard experience within an engineering department.
- Ability to work independently, complete tasks efficiently, and communicate effectively within an integrated team environment.
Overview
Noblis and our wholly owned subsidiaries, Noblis ESI and Noblis MSD, take on some of the nation’s toughest challenges, delivering advanced solutions to our customers’ most critical missions. We bring together leading scientific, engineering, and management expertise in a culture grounded in objectivity and collaboration, ensuring our work creates lasting impact across federal missions.
We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org
Why Work at Noblis
At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission‑driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.
Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well‑being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug‑free workplace.
Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.
EEO is the Law | E-Verify | Right to Work
Total Rewards:
At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Benefits page on our Careers site.
Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.
Posted Salary Range: USD $53,280.00 - USD $83,320.00 /Yr.
See All 41 Controls Technician Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Controls Technician JobsControls Technician Jobs by City in Virginia
Where Virginia roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Sterling
5 jobsAldie
2 jobsRoanoke
2 jobsRichmond
2 jobsArlington
2 jobsAlexandria
2 jobsChesapeake
2 jobsGlen Allen
2 jobsWinchester
2 jobsChester
1 jobHenrico
1 jobHerndon
1 jobNorfolk
1 jobManassas
1 jobLynchburg
1 jobRemington
1 jobRockville
1 jobWarrenton
1 jobRocky Mount
1 jobFalls Church
1 jobNewport News
1 jobWilliamsburg
1 jobMount Crawford
1 jobVirginia Beach
1 jobCharlottesville
1 jobRonald Reagan Washington National Airport
1 jobControls Technician Job Market in Virginia
A snapshot from current Virginia openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Retail
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Technology & Software
- E-Commerce & Online Marketplaces
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Virginia Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in controls technician jobs across Virginia.
- Associate degree or technical diploma in electronics, instrumentation, or a related field
- Hands-on experience with PLCs such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider Electric platforms
- Proficiency in reading electrical schematics, ladder logic, and control system diagrams
- Familiarity with HVAC controls, building automation systems, or industrial process controls
- Valid driver's license and ability to travel to client or facility sites across Virginia
- Strong troubleshooting skills for electrical, mechanical, and networked control systems
Controls Technician Jobs in Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a controls technician in Virginia?
Most Virginia employers start candidates with an associate degree or technical certificate in electronics, instrumentation, or industrial automation from a community college such as Northern Virginia Community College or Tidewater Community College. Virginia does not require a state-issued license specifically for controls technicians, but industry certifications like those from the Electronics Technicians Association or BICSI strengthen your candidacy. Apprenticeship programs offered through regional contractors and defense system integrators provide a practical on-ramp for those entering from trade or technical backgrounds.
Which companies hire controls technicians in Virginia?
Employers hiring controls technicians in Virginia right now include Amazon, Johnson Controls, and Hoffman & Hoffman, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Virginia's heavy concentration of defense contractors, federal facilities, and commercial building operators means demand is spread across both large primes and specialized systems integrators with long-term Virginia footprints.
Which Virginia cities have the most controls technician jobs?
The cities with the most controls technician openings in Virginia are Sterling, Virginia, and Aldie. Northern Virginia's density of federal agencies, defense contractors, and large commercial campuses drives the bulk of postings, while Richmond's manufacturing base and Hampton Roads' naval and shipbuilding operations sustain steady demand outside the D.C. corridor.
Are there remote controls technician jobs in Virginia?
Yes, but they're rare. Controls technician work is fundamentally hands-on, requiring on-site access to panels, PLCs, and physical infrastructure, so most Virginia roles are on-site or involve travel to client facilities. About 10% of controls technician openings tied to Virginia are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, and those positions typically cover programming, system design, or documentation work that doesn't require physical presence at a site.
How can I get hired as a controls technician in Virginia with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through an apprenticeship or helper-level role with a Virginia building automation or industrial controls contractor, where you work alongside journeymen on real installations. Companies operating large facilities in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads regularly bring in entry-level field technicians for HVAC and BAS commissioning work. A certification from the Electronics Technicians Association or completion of a PLC fundamentals course through a Virginia community college signals hands-on intent to employers and separates new candidates from those with only classroom backgrounds.
Where can I find and apply to controls technician jobs in Virginia?
You can find and apply to controls technician jobs in Virginia on Migrate Mate, which lists current Virginia openings updated regularly. Search the listings, find roles that match your experience and target area, and apply directly to the employers posting them. No signup is required to see the openings.
See All 41 Controls Technician Jobs in Virginia
Find roles in Virginia that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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