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Controls System Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

You will receive hands-on training and exposure to HVAC installation, service, and controls work ... C systems Career development pathway within the company Requirements: Who We're Looking For We ...

Sprinkler Installer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

Sprinkler Installer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

Sprinkler Installer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21 - $30/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

Sprinkler Installer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

Sprinkler Installer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy ... apprentices. * Carry/move equipment and tools weighing up to 70lbs. * Capable of performing ...

High school diploma or GED required; HVAC trade school or apprenticeship preferred. * 5+ years of ... packaged systems, split systems, refrigerant piping, electrical, controls, start-up, and ...

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Controls System Apprentice information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$21

$36

How much do controls system apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls system apprentice in Raleigh, NC is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.37 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.

Infographic showing various Controls System Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,527 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Chiller Technician Apprentice

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Piedmont Service Group
Facilities Support Services • 201 - 500 employees

$15 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 hours ago


Piedmont Service Group rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

217th of 261 rated facilities management


Job description

About the company:
Established in Raleigh, NC in 1971, Piedmont Service Group is a privately held energy efficiency and facilities services company focused exclusively on helping commercial, industrial, institutional, and government organizations operate and maintain their buildings in a safe, healthy, and efficient manner.
Our offices located across the Carolinas and Virginia allow us to serve our clients with a team of local accredited and licensed professionals. Piedmont is committed to building lasting relationships with the customers we serve and fully understanding our customers' needs to provide the best solution for each client.
Summary:
The Chiller Technician Apprentice will assist experienced technicians with the service, repair, and maintenance of chillers and related HVAC equipment. This position provides hands-on training in troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and refrigeration systems while developing the skills needed to perform service work safely and effectively.
The apprentice will support daily service activities, maintain organized work areas, complete required documentation, follow all company and job-site safety procedures, and travel to customer locations as needed. The position will work closely with senior technicians and rotate between the Service Department and Chiller Division during specific seasons, with opportunities to take on increased responsibilities as skills and experience develop.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist technicians with servicing and repair of chillers
  • Learn to troubleshoot refrigeration, electrical, and mechanical problems
  • Assist with preventive maintenance on chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and related equipment
  • Check and record temperatures, pressures, refrigerant levels, and operating conditions
  • Assist with refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and charging under supervision
  • Help inspect compressors, condensers, evaporators, valves, motors, and controls
  • Use hand tools, meters, gauges, and basic HVAC service equipment safely
  • Keep tools, work areas, and mechanical rooms clean and organized
  • Follow OSHA, company, and job-site safety procedures
  • Complete service reports and document maintenance activities
  • Assist with replacing filters, belts, bearings, electrical components, and other parts
  • Travel to customer/job sites as required
  • Learn to read schematics, wiring diagrams, manuals, and equipment documentation
  • Work closely with senior technicians and gradually perform tasks with less supervision
  • Float between Service Department and Chiller Division during specific seasons of the year

Requirements
General Requirements:
  • 2-3 years of HVAC experience required
  • Interest in HVAC/refrigeration
  • Willingness to learn
  • Ability to use hand and power tools
  • Basic electrical knowledge
  • Good troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Strong safety awareness

Technical Knowledge Requirements:
  • Basic mechanical aptitude

Certifications:
  • Universal CFC/EPA Certification

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Education- AA degree (or applicable experience in lieu of)

Physical Requirements:
  • Lifting
  • Bending, climbing, pulling, pushing, balancing, kneeling, twisting and standing
  • Perform service and repair functions from ladders and overhead
  • Carry and set up ladders up to 32 ft. in height (step or extension) as required
  • Climbing stairs, ladders, catwalks, etc.
  • Work from mechanical lifts

Piedmont Service Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
For a confidential consideration, please forward resume to: hr_manager@piedmontsg.com
Please visit our website at:
http://www.piedmontsg.com/

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