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Controls System Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Zenix Aerospace Inc

Machinist Apprentice I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$21.30 - $25.03/hr

... space systems flying safely, reliably, and efficiently. With a global footprint, decades of ... Learns about adjustments to machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machine ...

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Controls System Apprentice information

What is a controls system apprentice?

Controls System Apprentices are entry-level professionals who learn to install, maintain, and troubleshoot automated control systems used in industries like manufacturing, HVAC, and building management. They work under the supervision of experienced technicians or engineers, gaining hands-on experience with electrical circuits, sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and related software. Apprenticeships typically combine classroom instruction with practical on-the-job training, helping individuals develop the technical skills necessary to advance in the field of control systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls system apprentice?

To excel as a Controls System Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of electrical systems, mechanical principles, and basic programming, often supported by a high school diploma or technical coursework. Familiarity with tools like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and industry safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you quickly learn and adapt to complex systems. These competencies are crucial for safely installing, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems in industrial environments.

What types of hands-on tasks can I expect as a controls system apprentice, and how will I be supported in learning complex control systems?

As a Controls System Apprentice, you will frequently assist with the installation, calibration, and troubleshooting of control panels, sensors, and automation equipment under the guidance of experienced technicians or engineers. You'll often work on tasks like wiring, programming basic logic controllers (PLCs), and performing routine maintenance checks. Most employers provide structured mentorship and on-the-job training, ensuring you have opportunities to observe, ask questions, and gradually take on more complex responsibilities as your skills develop. Collaboration with senior team members is key, and apprentices often rotate through different projects to gain exposure to a variety of systems and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls System Apprentice vs Controls Technician?

CriteriaControls System ApprenticeControls Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some programs may need technical courseworkRequires technical certifications or associate degree in automation, electrical, or control systems
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often supervised, working on basic control systemsHands-on work in industrial or manufacturing settings, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in manufacturing, automation, or industrial sectorsSkilled role in similar industries, often with more independent responsibilities

The Controls System Apprentice is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting control systems, often under supervision. The Controls Technician is a more experienced role involving troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of control systems. While both roles work within the same industry and environment, the technician has advanced skills and responsibilities compared to the apprentice.

What cities in California are hiring for Controls System Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Controls System Apprentice job openings:

Controls System Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls System Apprentice job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Service Technician Apprentice

Rohnert Park, CA • On-site

R.F. MacDonald Co.
Building Equipment Contractors • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about R.F. MacDonald Co.external

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Summary:

A Boiler Service Technician – Apprentice is required to troubleshoot industrial and commercial boilers and associated burner/control systems as well as all ancillary equipment. R.F MacDonald Co. represents product lines such as Cleaver Brooks, Fulton, Camus, Industrial Combustion and others.


Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disability to perform the essential functions.

  • Have 1 to 3 years of experience in troubleshooting and servicing boilers from light commercial to industrial water-tube and Cogeneration applications.
  • Hands on ability for combustion set up and analysis as well as troubleshooting skills to determine and adjust a full range of burners from .5 to 30 Million BTU/HR input.
  • Experience with Low Emission burners and related equipment is a plus but not a requirement.
  • Must have good communication skills and the ability to work in a team atmosphere.
  • Accountable for the completion of internal and external inspections of boilers, burners, and associated controls that determine function ability and expected service life.
  • Repair and/or replace refractory, gaskets, parts, and miscellaneous controls.
  • Perform hydrostatic testing of boilers, troubleshooting and repair of industrial burners.
  • Evaluate basic boiler room systems (steam and hydronic), gather information and help solve problems.
  • Understanding of all types of hot water and steam boiler support equipment to include deaerators, feed systems, blow down systems, economizers and waste heat recovery equipment. Experience with low emission burners and related equipment is a plus.
  • Instrument calibration experience and education with hands on experience is a plus. Meters, loop controllers, transmitters and thermocouples are everyday instruments in use with this equipment, ideal candidate will posses knowledge in troubleshooting, installing and calibrating these types of instruments and controls utilizing the latest in calibration instruments.

Requirements:

  • Physical Requirements
  • Be able to bend, kneel, stand, squat and climb frequently.
  • Must have the ability to lift 50 pounds, carry 50 pounds, roll out tubing and push/pull heavy materials w/ mobile equipment.
  • Must be able to work in confined space/areas.
  • Must pass a physical (fit test), hearing and eye exam
  • A valid driver's license is required with a clean record. Must be insurable with no major infractions. Job will require some travel. Applicants must pass pre-employment background and an initial and subsequent random drug screening tests.
  • Must be self-motivated individual who works independently, as well as in a team atmosphere. Good customer service skills are mandatory.
  • Must be professionally presentable, must have good customer skills and strong communication skills, must be able to operate independently and communicate efficiently and effectively with both the customer and management.
  • Must be detail oriented in completing work orders, all required forms, summaries, and checklist daily or as required in procedures manual
  • Must have strong language skills as well as industry specific vocabulary.
  • Basic mathematics, algebra, and formula knowledge are required.
  • Must have very strong reasoning and problem solving skills.

Competencies:

1. Problem Solving/Analysis Skills

2. Reasoning Skills

3. Project Management

4. Safety Focus

5. Critical Thinking/Evaluation Skills

6. Communication Proficiency

7. Ethical Conduct

8. Time Management

9. Personal Effectiveness/Credibility

10. Flexibility

11. Timeliness


Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.


Work Environment

This job operates in internal and external environments which may include inclement weather conditions. Environment will include working with hot steam, liquids, tight spaces and other conditions depending on customer site(s).


Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk, hear, listen, bend, squat, walk, lift, pull, push, crawl, climb stairs, and drive various equipment.


Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. This position regularly requires long hours and travel work as job duties demand.


Travel

Travel is required for this position to customer sites with out-of-area and possible overnight travel expected.



Requirements:

Required Education

  • Completed High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Two years of technical school, community college or trade school.
  • Computer knowledge a plus.