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Entry Level Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

FieldAI

Robotics QA / QC Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

We are looking for a Robotics QA/QC Engineer to own hands-on validation and testing of robotic ... entry-level candidates with relevant experience or projects) > * Comfort working with physical ...

FieldAI

Robotics QA / QC Engineer

Irvine, CA

We are looking for a Robotics QA/QC Engineer to own hands-on validation and testing of robotic ... entry-level candidates with relevant experience or projects) * Comfort working with physical ...

FieldAI

Robotics QA / QC Engineer

Irvine, CA

$30 - $45/hr

We are looking for a Robotics QA/QC Engineer to own hands-on validation and testing of robotic ... entry-level candidates with relevant experience or projects) * Comfort working with physical ...

Professional Search Group - Orange County

Be Seen First

Mechanical Engineer, Entry Level

Fountain Valley, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Knowledge of programming environments such as MATLAB, C/C++, or LabVIEW for automation and control ... This paid entry-level position offers an excellent platform for growth within a forward-thinking ...

JSL Technologies Inc.

Entry-Level Engineer

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$52K - $82K/yr

... Control Boards (CCBs). · Develop/Update Non-Permanent Changes (NPC), Deviations From Specification (DFS), and Engineering Change Proposals (ECP). · Provide support for the design and production of ...

DK Engineer Corp

Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Additionally, you will be entrusted with maintaining the technical content and quality control of ... EIT for entry-level candidates. * Working knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, and standards ...

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Entry Level Control Engineer information

See California salary details

$15.7K

$54.3K

$123.4K

How much do entry level control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level control engineer in California is $54,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28,397.00 and $73,442.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, you need a solid understanding of control systems, automation principles, and a degree in electrical, mechanical, or a related engineering discipline. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and simulation software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel when collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and maintenance of automated processes that meet safety and efficiency standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level control engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Entry level control engineers often encounter challenges such as communicating effectively with colleagues from different engineering backgrounds (mechanical, electrical, software) and translating control requirements into actionable tasks. Additionally, understanding system integration and troubleshooting unexpected behaviors in complex automated processes can be demanding. Proactively asking questions, actively participating in meetings, and seeking mentorship within the team are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and accelerating professional growth.

What does an entry level control engineer do?

An entry level control engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and implementation of control systems used in manufacturing, industrial processes, or automation. Their tasks often include programming controllers, troubleshooting equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating with senior engineers on projects. They typically work with PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and other automation hardware to optimize processes and ensure systems operate safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Control Engineer vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in control systems or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of control systems; office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems on-site
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, energy sectorsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician

While both roles involve working with control systems, Entry Level Control Engineers focus on designing and developing control solutions, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Control Systems Technicians typically handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, often with technical certifications. The roles complement each other within industrial and manufacturing environments, with engineers focusing on planning and technicians on execution and support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Control Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Control Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Control Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Control Engineer jobs near you

Robotics QA / QC Engineer

FieldAI

Irvine, CA • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

FieldAI's Irvine team is where embodied AI meets real robots, real sensors, and real field deployments. Based in the heart of Southern California's robotics ecosystem, we build risk-aware, reliable, field-ready AI systems that solve the hardest problems in robotics and unlock the full potential of embodied intelligence. If you want your work to ship, get tested on hardware, and improve through real deployments, Irvine is the place. We go beyond typical data-driven approaches or pure transformer-only architectures, combining rigorous engineering with learning systems proven in globally deployed solutions that deliver results today and get better every time our robots run in the field.
We are looking for a Robotics QA/QC Engineer to own hands-on validation and testing of robotic systems in controlled environments at our Irvine facility.
In this role, you will work directly with robots, monitor system behavior, identify issues, and ensure reliable and safe operation prior to deployment. You will collaborate closely with engineering teams to surface bugs, validate fixes, and improve overall system quality.
This is a highly practical, execution-focused role where you will be deeply involved in day-to-day testing and validation of physical systems.
If you enjoy working with hardware, troubleshooting in real time, and being the final quality gate before systems ship, this role is for you.
What You Get to Do:
  • Execute manual and structured testing of robotic systems in lab and controlled environments
    • >
  • Monitor robot behavior during operation to ensure safe and expected performance
    • >
  • Identify, document, and reproduce bugs, anomalies, and edge cases
    • >
  • Capture detailed test logs including failures, inconsistencies, and performance issues
    • >
  • Partner with engineering teams to clearly communicate issues and drive resolution
    • >
  • Validate fixes and perform regression testing on new builds and updates
    • >
  • Improve QA processes, test procedures, and operational checklists
    • >
  • Support ongoing system validation and provide real-time feedback on performance
    • >

What You Bring:
  • Bachelors Degree in Computer Science or other relevant field
  • 2+ years of experience in QA, robotics testing, or hands-on technical roles
    (open to strong entry-level candidates with relevant experience or projects)
    • >
  • Comfort working with physical systems (robots, vehicles, or machinery)
    • >
  • Strong attention to detail and observational skills
    • >
  • Ability to clearly document issues and communicate findings
    • >
  • Basic troubleshooting skills with the ability to isolate and describe issues
    • >
  • Willingness to be hands-on and physically engaged during testing
    • >
  • Reliable, methodical, and safety-conscious
    • >

What Sets You Apart:
  • Experience with robotics, autonomous systems, or electromechanical systems
    • >
  • Familiarity with logging tools or bug tracking systems (e.g., Jira)
    • >
  • Basic scripting (Python, Bash) for test support or data collection
    • >
  • Understanding of sensor systems (cameras, LiDAR, GPS, etc.)
    • >
  • Experience with structured test plans, QA processes, or validation workflows
    • >

$30 - $45 an hour
Our salary range is generous and we consider each individual's background and experience when determining final compensation. Base pay may vary based on role scope, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and the Irvine, California market.
Why Join FieldAI in Irvine?
In Irvine, you will work where the robots are. Our local team builds and tests systems on real hardware with real sensors, then ships them to operate in unstructured, previously unknown environments around the world. We are solving one of robotics' hardest challenges: reliable deployment outside the lab. Our Field Foundational Models™ raise the bar for perception, planning, localization, and manipulation, with an emphasis on explainability and safety for real-world use.
You will collaborate with a world-class team that thrives on creativity, resilience, and bold thinking. We bring deep experience from organizations such as DeepMind, NASA JPL, Boston Dynamics, NVIDIA, Amazon, Tesla Autopilot, Cruise, Zoox, Toyota Research Institute, and SpaceX, along with a track record of field deployments and strong performance in DARPA challenge segments.
Be Part of the Next Robotics Revolution
We are looking for builders who want their work to leave the whiteboard and show up on robots. If you enjoy tackling tough, uncharted questions and working across disciplines, you will find your people here. Our teams span AI, software, robotics engineering, product, field deployment, and technical communication, all focused on shipping systems that perform in the real world.
Our headquarters is in Irvine, and we partner closely with teams there as well as colleagues across the US and around the world. Join us in Southern California and help define what dependable, field-ready autonomy looks like.
We value diverse perspectives and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. We evaluate candidates and employees based on merit, qualifications, and performance, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected statu
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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