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Controls System Apprentice Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

HVAC Controls Technician

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$29 - $38.25/hr

Wilson Electric Services Corp is an Electrical and Special Systems contractor. We have ranked #1 as ... Lastly, we offer sponsorship in the Electrical Apprenticeship Program, internal Workforce ...

Apprentice Electrician

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$24 - $34/hr

... an electrician apprenticeship, technical school, or trade program • Journeyman Electrician ... systems, or electrical integration operations • PLC troubleshooting or controls experience ...

Completion of an electrician apprenticeship, technical school, or trade program * Journeyman ... systems, or electrical integration operations * PLC troubleshooting or controls experience ...

Completion of an electrician apprenticeship, technical school, or trade program * Journeyman ... systems, or electrical integration operations * PLC troubleshooting or controls experience ...

... an electrician apprenticeship, technical school, or trade program • Journeyman Electrician ... systems, or electrical integration operations • PLC troubleshooting or controls experience ...

BAS & HVAC Controls Lead

Tempe, AZ

$29 - $38.25/hr

Run EMT, rigid, flex conduit, and cable tray systems * Perform wire pulling, cable routing, and ... Mentor and train junior installers and apprentices * Participate in performance evaluations and ...

BAS & HVAC Controls Lead

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$30 - $39.75/hr

Run EMT, rigid, flex conduit, and cable tray systems * Perform wire pulling, cable routing, and ... Mentor and train junior installers and apprentices * Participate in performance evaluations and ...

BAS & HVAC Controls Lead

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$30 - $39.75/hr

Run EMT, rigid, flex conduit, and cable tray systems * Perform wire pulling, cable routing, and ... Mentor and train junior installers and apprentices * Participate in performance evaluations and ...

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Controls System Apprentice information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do controls system apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls system apprentice in Phoenix, AZ is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Controls System Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Controls System Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls System Apprentice job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 96% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,481 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Building Controls Technician - Travel Team

Phoenix, AZ

The Building People
Facilities Support Services • 51 - 200 employees

$29.75 - $39.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Travel to customer sites to perform existing conditions assessments of building controls infrastructure.

  • Document existing conditions through field notes, photographs, device inventories, point lists, network observations, controller information, and site assessment reports.

  • Assist with installation, startup, checkout, and commissioning support for Tridium/Niagara-based building automation and control systems.


Job description

$90,000-$120,000
The Building People, LLC, has a position open for a full-time Building Controls Technician - Travel Team to support building controls projects across customer sites. This junior-level role performs existing conditions site visits related to building controls infrastructure, documents field conditions, and assists with installation, startup, programming, and verification of Tridium-based building automation systems. The position works under the direction of senior technicians, engineers, and project leads while supporting travel-based project delivery, field documentation, and customer coordination.
 
Responsibilities/Duties
  • Travel to customer sites to perform existing conditions assessments of building controls infrastructure, including panels, controllers, field devices, networks, communication trunks, sensors, actuators, and related equipment.
  • Document existing conditions through field notes, photographs, device inventories, point lists, network observations, controller information, and site assessment reports.
  • Assist with installation, startup, checkout, and commissioning support for Tridium/Niagara-based building automation and control systems.
  • Support basic programming, graphics, schedules, alarms, trends, histories, and point mapping under the guidance of senior controls personnel.
  • Perform point-to-point verification, functional testing support, controller checkout, and equipment communication checks during project delivery.
  • Assist with troubleshooting building controls hardware, wiring, network connectivity, device communication, and application issues in the field.
  • Coordinate with senior technicians, engineers, project managers, subcontractors, facility staff, and customers to support field work and project schedules.
  • Maintain accurate project documentation, including redlines, as-built notes, site visit findings, issue logs, service notes, and closeout documentation.
  • Follow company and customer safety, cybersecurity, access, and site-specific procedures while working in active facilities.
  • Participate in hands-on training to build skills in DDC controls, Tridium/Niagara platforms, smart building systems, and field service best practices.
*This position requires regular travel to customer sites to perform field assessments, documentation, installation support, and controls system startup activities.
Required Skills
  • Good verbal and written communication skills for field notes, customer interaction, and project coordination.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and able to organize photographs, notes, equipment information, and site documentation.
  • Basic understanding of building automation systems, DDC controls, HVAC equipment, field devices, and smart building infrastructure.
  • Ability to learn and support Tridium/Niagara-based control systems, including basic navigation, point review, graphics, schedules, alarms, and trends.
  • Ability to follow technical direction, work from checklists, and escalate issues appropriately to senior technicians or engineers.
  • Basic troubleshooting skills related to controls wiring, devices, network communication, controllers, and workstation connectivity.
  • Detail-oriented approach to documenting existing conditions, deficiencies, equipment information, and project changes.
  • Willingness and ability to travel regularly to customer sites, including overnight travel as project needs require.
Required Experience/Education
  • 1 to 3 years of experience in building automation, HVAC controls, electrical, mechanical, low-voltage, field service, facilities, or a related technical field preferred.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical school, associate degree, apprenticeship, military technical training, or related coursework preferred.
  • Experience performing field work, site surveys, equipment documentation, installation support, startup support, or service documentation preferred.
  • Exposure to Tridium/Niagara, BAS platforms, DDC controls, BACnet, Modbus, IP networking, or related building systems preferred but not required.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company travel requirements.
Preferred Skills/Experience
  • Hands-on experience with Tridium/Niagara N4, Niagara AX, or other BAS platforms.
  • Experience supporting controls installation, panel work, device checkout, network troubleshooting, graphics, or basic programming.
  • Familiarity with Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Honeywell, Distech, Automated Logic, or similar BAS platforms.
  • Interest in pursuing Niagara certification, controls training, cybersecurity awareness, or other building technology credentials.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to travel regularly, work at customer sites, and support project schedules that may include early mornings, evenings, or overnight stays.
  • Ability to walk buildings, access mechanical/electrical rooms, climb ladders as permitted, inspect panels and equipment, and work around typical facility environments.
  • Ability to use a computer, mobile device, camera, basic hand tools, meters, ladders, and personal protective equipment as required for field documentation and installation support.
  • Ability to participate in scheduled after-hours work when required for project cutovers, startup, or customer access windows.