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Control Systems Engineer Intern Jobs in Irvine, CA

Manager, Thermal Control Systems

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$154K - $219K/yr

Vast is seeking a Manager, Thermal Control Systems reporting to the Director, Thermal Environmental ... In this role, you will guide a small team of mechanical engineers while also contributing directly ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$109K - $150K/yr

The Systems Engineering team ensures that Terran R comes together as a cohesive, high-performing ... Proven ability to work with intern IT and Dev Ops teams to create tools * At least 1 full life ...

Showing results 21-40

Control Systems Engineer Intern information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do control systems engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for control systems engineer intern in Irvine, CA is $20.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects can a control systems engineer intern expect to work on, and how do these experiences support long-term career growth?

As a Control Systems Engineer Intern, you can expect to be involved in projects such as designing, testing, and implementing automation solutions, developing control algorithms, or supporting process optimization initiatives. These projects often involve collaborating with senior engineers, software developers, and maintenance teams, giving you exposure to real-world challenges and the opportunity to develop technical and problem-solving skills. By participating in hands-on tasks and cross-functional teamwork, you lay a strong foundation for advancement into roles like Control Systems Engineer or Automation Engineer after graduation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control systems engineer intern, and why are they important?

To excel as a Control Systems Engineer Intern, you should have a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, control theory, and basic programming, often supported by ongoing or completed coursework toward a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, MATLAB/Simulink, and industry-standard simulation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you contribute to team projects and adapt to fast-paced technical environments. These skills and qualities ensure you can support the design, analysis, and troubleshooting of control systems, which are critical for safe and efficient automation processes.

What does a control systems engineer intern do?

A Control Systems Engineer Intern assists in designing, developing, and testing systems that automate and control processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or robotics. They often work under the supervision of experienced engineers to create and optimize control algorithms, configure hardware, and troubleshoot system issues. The internship typically involves hands-on experience with software tools, control equipment, and real-world projects, allowing interns to apply theoretical knowledge from their studies. This role helps interns gain valuable practical skills and a deeper understanding of how control systems are engineered and maintained.

What is the difference between Control Systems Engineer Intern vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectControl Systems Engineer InternControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering or related programBachelor's or master's degree in engineering, often with relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, supervised, entry-level projectsFull-time professional role, responsible for designing and maintaining control systems
Employer & Industry UsageInternships in manufacturing, automation, aerospace, and related industriesFull-time positions in similar industries, with greater responsibilities

The main difference between a Control Systems Engineer Intern and a Control Systems Engineer is experience and responsibility. Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while engineers are full-time professionals managing complex control systems projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Control Systems Engineer Intern jobs in Irvine, CA? For Control Systems Engineer Intern jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Control Systems Engineer Intern jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Control Systems Engineer Intern jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Control Systems Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Control Systems Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer Intern job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,123 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Electrical & Control Systems Senior Engineer

SPEC SERVICES INC.

Fountain Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description

SPEC Services, Inc. is a premier firm in Electrical & Control Systems engineering and is seeking a self-motivated and energetic applicant to apply for an Electrical/Control Systems Senior Engineer position in Southern California.

About the Position

In this position, you will apply your knowledge of the principles of electrical systems to:

  • Prepare engineering calculations such as short circuit, load flow, motor starting, relay coordination and arc flash.
  • Direct design staff in the preparation of construction drawing packages of medium and low voltage power systems, grounding, lighting, instrumentation and control systems.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop the best solution for a variety of power and control systems challenges.
  • Contribute to the growth and development of junior team members.

The position has a flexible 9/80 work schedule with a hybrid work location, supporting the Fountain Valley office.

Responsibilities

Your core duties and responsibilities may require you to do the following:

  • Act as an engineering lead on the electrical and control systems portion of multi-discipline projects.
  • Prepare data sheets and specifications for electrical equipment for power distribution center, switchgear, transformer, motor control center, variable frequency drive, starter, control panel, etc.
  • Perform electrical calculations using electrical software such as ETAP or SKM.
  • Participate in startup, performance testing and troubleshooting.
  • Participate in planning, cost control and scheduling for assigned projects.
  • Develop and review construction estimates.
  • Maintain effective communication and relationships with project team members and clients, with a commitment to building enduring relationships leading to customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Prepare & issue requisition packages, evaluate vendor quotations, clarifications, Technical Bid Analysis, etc.
  • Review vendor documents, drawings, datasheets, specifications and calculations.
  • Guide permitting through local agencies, interfacing with clients and construction contractors, performing field investigations.
  • Mentor and train junior team members.

Skill Requirements

  • Strong verbal, written and communication skills with the ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter to a wide range of audiences
  • Desire and ability to learn new skills and assume greater responsibilities
  • Working knowledge with instrumentation, programmable logic controllers (PLC) and distributed control systems (DCS) is preferred.
  • Knowledge in electrical engineering and design, NEC and API 500 with working electrical construction experience is required.
  • Ability to visit local project sites for data gathering and inspections with occasional travel to farther locations.

Experience and Education Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering is required.
  • 6+ years designing projects involving medium and low voltage power distribution systems, grounding, lighting, instrumentation and control systems is required.
  • Energy infrastructure experience is preferred.
  • Engineering consulting experience is preferred.
  • California Electrical Professional Engineer license is strongly preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required.

Salary Range: $95-$157k Annually

We are an equal opportunity employer