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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Masimo

Cybersecurity Quality Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Familiarity with quality systems, design controls, software lifecycle documentation, or regulated ... Security+, ISC2 CC, or similar entry-level cybersecurity certification is a plus. Education:

Masimo

Cybersecurity Quality Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Familiarity with quality systems, design controls, software lifecycle documentation, or regulated ... Security+, ISC2 CC, or similar entry-level cybersecurity certification is a plus. Education:

Rangeview

Mechanical Automation Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$90K - $154K/yr

We are currently hiring for L1(entry level) - L3IC (Senior). Job Responsibilities * Design and ... Familiarity with industrial controls (PLC, HMI, common controls components) * Has had ownership ...

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual stages to design completion, and throughout ...

Veryon

Sec Ops Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... controls, and general engineering support for security initiatives. This is an entry level role, but it is best suited for someone who wants real hands on technical exposure and is interested in ...

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Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in California is $95,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Controls Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, basic programming skills (such as PLC or ladder logic), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure you can efficiently design, troubleshoot, and implement control systems that are safe, reliable, and meet client specifications.

What is an Entry Level Controls Engineer job?

An Entry Level Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and troubleshooting control systems used in manufacturing and automation. They work with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and other automation components to optimize system performance. Typical tasks include programming, testing, and debugging control systems, as well as collaborating with senior engineers and technicians. This role requires a background in electrical or mechanical engineering, along with knowledge of automation software and hardware. Entry-level positions often involve hands-on training and mentorship to build technical expertise.

What are the main types of projects or systems an Entry Level Controls Engineer typically works on?

As an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you will often be involved in designing, programming, and maintaining automated control systems for manufacturing lines, industrial machinery, or building automation projects. Your typical responsibilities might include configuring PLCs, developing HMI screens, conducting system testing, and assisting with troubleshooting both in the office and on-site. You will collaborate closely with senior engineers, project managers, and technicians to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet quality standards. This hands-on experience gives you valuable exposure to different industries and technologies, laying the groundwork for future specialization or advancement within controls engineering.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.
Entry Level Project Engineer - Southern California

Entry Level Project Engineer - Southern California

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Newport Beach, CA

$72K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

McCarthy Building Companies rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This job posting is intended for early career professionals with approximately one year or less of industry work experience. Current seniors enrolled in a 4 year college degree program who are graduating within one year are also encouraged to apply.

The Project Engineer’s position establishes the fundamental principles for an individual’s growth and success within McCarthy. In this hands-on role, you will gain experience with project controls and communications as well as get exposure to the technical aspects of constructing a project. This position is the initial step in developing the managerial and communication skills for project management. 

Please note: This position will be based out of the Southern California area but will require relocation to support projects out-of-state for a certain period of time.
Key Responsibilities: 

  • General Contract and Subcontract administration
  • Monitor/document job-site safety and accident prevention
  • Construction scheduling
  • Procurement and expediting of material and equipment
  • Mechanical, electrical and piping systems coordination
  • Shop drawing/submittal review and coordination
  • Project cost review, reporting, updating and accounting
  • Review of subcontractor applications for payment
  • Participation in/documentation of project coordination meetings
  • Supervision/coordination of subcontractors’ field installations
  • Review/negotiate change proposal pricing from subcontractors and prepare change proposal pricing for self-performed work
  • Change order documentation and associated cost reporting and maintenance
  • Research and suggest options on construction means, methods and equipment
  • Maintenance of As-Built plans
  • Quality control and project closeout

Skills & Qualifications:   

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management or Engineering required
  • General knowledge of construction principles/practices required
  • Strong work ethic and desire to work in a team environment required
  • Must be geographically mobile and able to work anywhere in the following counties: Los Angeles, Orange County, Inland Empire.
  • Construction internship or other related construction work experience preferred

For Southern California locations, the starting salary for this position is: $88,000. This does not include possible bonus and other benefits which can impact total compensation. Compensation offered may vary based on work location, experience, qualifications, specialty, training, and market and business considerations, among other factors. 

McCarthy is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status. 

What McCarthy Building Companies employees say

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About McCarthy Building

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McCarthy Building, headquartered in Saint Louis, MO, US, is a leading construction company primarily offering general contracting, design-build and construction management services throughout the United States. Its prominent industry presence can be explored in detail on its official website, mccarthy.com. Founded in 1864, the company has built a robust legacy marked by significant contributions to the U.S. construction industry. McCarthy Building engages a broad range of sectors, including healthcare, education, commercial, renewable energy, and advanced technology.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1864

Social media

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