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Controls System Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Perform controls systems assessments to maintain and improve equipment reliability. * Clearly ... Preferred Qualifications * 2+ years apprenticeship or equivalent experience in Control Systems ...

... systems (e.g. controls, numeral controls, power supplies, drives, gages and test equipment ... Technical Associate Degree or accredited apprenticeship program or the equivalent in a technical ...

Operating Engineer

Brentwood, TN

$65K - $88K/yr

Electrical systems * DDC controls * Pneumatic controls * Support emergency response situations and ... Trade school education, military technical training, union apprenticeship, or related college ...

... systems and automation Knowledge, Skills, and Experience High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in refrigeration technology, HVAC/R, controls ...

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DOL-registered in-house apprenticeship & advancement paths * Strong Safety Culture: We put safety ... controls ranging from 20awg to 750kcmil * Troubleshoot and repair electrical systems, including ...

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Controls System Apprentice information

What are Controls System Apprentices?

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 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls System Apprentice, and why are they important?

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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Controls System Apprentice jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Controls System Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls System Apprentice job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
HVAC Service Apprentice Technician

HVAC Service Apprentice Technician

Johnson Controls

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$25.20/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 386 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.
For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.
Visit johnsoncontrols.com for more information and follow @Johnsoncontrols on social platforms.
What you will do:
Under general supervision, conducts preventive maintenance, repair, installation, general servicing and troubleshooting of mechanical HVAC systems. Responsible for high levels of customer satisfaction through direct, on site, customer interface. Mentors' peers on mechanical HVAC installation & service activities. Properly completes required project and service documentation. Provide our customers with the highest level of service to solve building inefficiencies and resolve service-related items. As a trusted advisor to our customers, you will provide solutions and outcomes at the time of service
How you will do it:
Routine service and inspections, regardless of size or location of the HVAC mechanical equipment being inspected or serviced, where this work is done as a periodic and routine procedure by the Employer, such as:
  • Change and service filters
  • Oiling and greasing
  • Adjust or replace belts
  • Clean cooling towers, coils, evaporator and condenser tubes and general housekeeping
  • Mechanical systems operation under contract with customer
  • Cleaning and routine maintenance of solar energy equipment
  • Indoor Air Quality related work including duct systems and drain pans

What we look for
Required:
  • Must be a member or willing to join the local union
  • Vocational School four-year program or an associate degree in mechanical systems, air conditioning or similar field
  • 1+ years of industry experience or experience in servicing mechanical systems in the HVAC industry
  • Generally required knowledge includes mechanical HVAC systems, facilities management systems, site preparation, peripheral equipment installation and servicing techniques
  • Effective interpersonal skills to properly represent Johnson Controls to customers and other outside contacts in an ethical and professional manner
  • Ability to explain technical information to technical and non-technical people
  • Leadership skills to support the activities of Mechanics working on non-complex, non-critical mechanical HVAC equipment on a job site

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $25.20 Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us
#techhiring
Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US