Senior Controls Engineer – Real-Time Grid & SCADA

Actalent; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 187,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Controls Engineer for an onsite role in Tysons, VA. The specialist will design, program, integrate, and commission advanced control and automation systems for electric utilities and real-time grid management environments.

Strong experience with SCADA, RTU, PLC, and HMI is required, along with deep knowledge of ADMS, DERMS, and EMS platforms. The role involves leading design packages, QA/QC, commissioning plans, and technical leadership across projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience in real-time grid management and utility systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop design packages including requirements, specs, wiring diagrams, and SCADA architecture.
• Configure, program, and troubleshoot PLC, RTU, HMI, and SCADA systems.
• Lead commissioning plans, test procedures, and factory/field testing.
• Coordinate with engineers and technicians for project execution.
• Attend client meetings and present technical solutions.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field

Tools

Aspen Energy Analyzer

Aspen Utilities Planner

Siemens Spectrum Power

General Electric PowerOn

Schneider Electric EcoStruxure

OSIsoft PI System

PcVue

Inductive Ignition

Job description

Actalent is seeking a Controls Engineer for an onsite role in Tysons, VA. The specialist will design, program, integrate, and commission advanced control and automation systems for electric utilities and real-time grid management environments.

Strong experience with SCADA, RTU, PLC, and HMI is required, along with deep knowledge of ADMS, DERMS, and EMS platforms. The role involves leading design packages, QA/QC, commissioning plans, and technical leadership across projects.