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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Build Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91K - $187K/yr

We are hiring entry-level through senior-level. Responsibilities * Lead detailed project planning ... S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. § 120 ...

We are hiring entry-level through senior-level. Responsibilities * Lead detailed project planning ... S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120 ...

We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering team. This ... Knowledge of AM part quality and process controls and inspection methodologies. * Experience in ...

Additive Design Engineer

Marina, CA · On-site

$83K - $113K/yr

Overview We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering ... Knowledge of AM part quality and process controls and inspection methodologies. * Experience in ...

Additive Design Engineer

Marina, CA

$83K - $113K/yr

Overview We are seeking an entry-level additive design engineer to join our additive engineering ... Knowledge of AM part quality and process controls and inspection methodologies. * Experience in ...

We are hiring entry-level through senior-level. Responsibilities * Lead detailed project planning ... S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. 120.62or ...

We are hiring entry-level through senior-level. Responsibilities * Lead detailed project planning ... S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. § 120 ...

Quality Engineer I

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

... controls, and CAPA systems designed to meet or exceed internal and external requirements - Assist ... * Entry level position in which 0-2 years of experience is typical to meet the skills and ...

Quality Engineer I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

... controls, and CAPA systems designed to meet or exceed internal and external requirements - Assist ... * Entry level position in which 0-2 years of experience is typical to meet the skills and ...

Quality Engineer I

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

... controls, and CAPA systems designed to meet or exceed internal and external requirements - Assist ... * Entry level position in which 0-2 years of experience is typical to meet the skills and ...

Develop and provide data and analysis in support of Management Controls / Management Review and ... Lead, coach, and mentor non-exempt and entry level exempt personnel on quality principles and ...

Develop and provide data and analysis in support of Management Controls / Management Review and ... Lead, coach, and mentor non-exempt and entry level exempt personnel on quality principles and ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 13, 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 cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:
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.
Build Engineer

Build Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$91K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.
This role sits at the intersection of engineering design, manufacturing, integration and test for flight vehicles. You'll be embedded with design and production teams, owning everything from hardware design, tooling, testing and flight readiness to process development and vehicle assembly. We are hiring entry-level through senior-level.
Responsibilities
  • Lead detailed project planning and drive hardware delivery on aggressive timelines.
  • Collaborate directly with high level design concepts turning them into detailed designs including final geometry, material selection and DFM.
  • Drive the transition from prototype to production for complex aerospace assemblies.
  • Ruthlessly question process complexity-delete parts, eliminate waste, simplify flow.
  • Design and implement full-stack build processes-factory layout, tooling, test flow, and vehicle integration.
  • Develop and run test procedures for flight hardware.
  • Serve as a force multiplier across production, test, and design teams.

Requirements
  • Strong engineering first principles.
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, manufacturing, or related engineering field.
  • Hands-on experience with physical hardware (internships, labs, project teams all count).
  • Proven ability to design, build, break, and iterate quickly.
  • Comfort with CAD, test equipment, hand tools.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing processes (machining, welding, forming, etc.) and GD&T fundamentals.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Designed and released flight hardware.
  • Familiarity with Siemens Teamcenter and NX.
  • Leadership experience on project teams or in mentorship roles.
  • You've built something that's flown, broken, or both.
  • Experience standing up production lines or test infrastructure in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Requirements
  • Must be willing to travel to test sites, other Hermeus offices, and partner locations as needed (up to 25% travel)

$91,800 - $187,450 a year
Build Engineer I $91,800 - 112,200
Build Engineer II $114,750 - $140,250
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by22 C.F.R. § 120.62or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
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.