Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer (Contract)

Primary Talent Partners has a new contract opening for a Controls Engineer to join our engineering client in Manassas, VA. This is a 12‑month contract to start with the potential for extensions.

$47.00 – $71.00/hr; W2 contract, no PTO, no benefits. ACA‑compliant supplemental package available for enrollment. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must be able to sit on Primary Talent Partners W2 without sponsorship.

We are seeking an experienced Instrumentation & Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems for complex manufacturing and process facilities. In this role, you will lead and contribute to the engineering of instrumentation, automation, and safety systems that support high‑tech environments.

• Participate in the development of proposals, budgets, and schedules for process‑specific work.
• Design facility control systems, fire alarm systems, chemical controls, Toxic Gas Monitoring (TGM), and SCADA.
• Develop P&IDs, loop drawings, and detailed wiring diagrams.
• Perform sizing and selection of instruments, control devices, and valves, including preparation of data sheets.
• Review vendor submittals and design deliverables to ensure compliance with client requirements, applicable codes, and standards.
• Initiate and develop Sequence of Operation (SOO) documents.
• Participate in technical and business presentations with clients and internal teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or an associated Mechanical or Chemical Engineering discipline from an ABET‑accredited university.
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification.
• 6+ years of experience in industrial control systems engineering and design.
• Working knowledge of PLC systems, industrial networks, cybersecurity, motor control and power distribution systems.
• Experience designing PLC‑based systems (Allen‑Bradley, Schneider Modicon and Siemens).
• Understanding of national codes and standards including NFPA 70 and UL 508A.
• Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills in multidisciplinary environments.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure in the State of Virginia.
• 2+ years of experience with semiconductor manufacturing tools (design, installation or cleanroom use).
• Familiarity with BIM and CAD platforms such as Revit, AutoCAD and Navisworks.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook) and project scheduling/delivery tools.
• Experience leading teams and managing engineering design efforts.
• A forward‑thinking mindset with a passion for learning, innovation and continuous improvement.
• Industrial design experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, semiconductor facilities, data center, or similar environments.
• Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary and global teams.
• Passion for buildings, construction, and engineered systems.

• Preference given to local candidates; relocation package or mileage/expense reimbursement available to well‑qualified candidates.
• Travel may be required.
• Field work includes mobility demands such as walking long distances, climbing ladders, and working in active construction environments.
• Must pass background check and drug screening.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (no sponsorship available).

Primary Talent Partners is an Equal Opportunity / Affinitive Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. If you are a person with a disability needing assistance with the application or at any point in the hiring process, please contact us at i