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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Operator Helper

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Two year Associate degree in power plant technology, industrial technology, engineering technology ... controls to precise locations 3) Detect color on alarms, equipment & other devices 4) Hear ...

Showing results 41-41

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Oklahoma salary details

$50.8K

$89.2K

$121K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Oklahoma is $89,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,100.00 and $99,700.00 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?

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 Oklahoma? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Oklahoma are:
What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Oklahoma with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Oklahoma as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,170 per year, or $42.9 per hour.

$16 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


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Job description

Job Posting End Date
08-13-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date
Job Summary
Under supervision, perform semi-skilled manual work in connection with an entry level position in power plant operation.
Job Description
Job Posting End Date
08-13-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
What You'll Do:
  • Assist equipment operators while learning the following job duties: Isolate, clean, open, replace, inspect, close and return to service plant equipment. Isolate equipment and place/remove clearance tags in the plant and switchyard.
  • Operate, regulate, adjust, clean and perform minor maintenance on plant auxiliary systems. Monitor and inspect all plant equipment for normal operation. Identify and report abnormal conditions to the proper authority and write work orders. Operate, clean, service and lubricate portable power-driven tools and equipment.
  • Maintain tools, equipment and work areas in a clean and orderly condition. Utilize portable meters, analyzers and equipment to conduct tests and monitoring. Lubricate and check lubrication equipment; adjust packing glands as necessary and perform necessary operative maintenance, using appropriate hand tools.
  • Operate oil filtering equipment. Erect and remove simple scaffolding and rigging. Perform routine cleaning of plant areas and equipment, including outside areas, as assigned. Load, unload, move and handle materials, supplies and equipment; open boxes, barrels, bags and other materials using material handling equipment.
  • Monitor water chemistry as required. Maintain water pH and follow EPA guidelines as applicable. Assist in preparing boilers and auxiliaries for operation and removal from service. If applicable, monitor coal feed to mills and burners and observe conditions of fires and furnaces.
  • Hand lance slag in boilers, hand- operating soot blowers, unplugging ash lines, disposing of clinkers and other similar work. Use flow diagrams to identify system piping and equipment and revise these prints as required. Make required equipment checks and assist in performing tests and preparing related reports, graphs and curves.
  • Perform duties in accordance with Company's safety rules, operating regulations and practices and report unsafe conditions and practices. Train for and carry out assignments in firefighting, first aid and other emergency response programs as required. Perform other job duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For:
Education: Two year Associate degree in power plant technology, industrial technology, engineering technology or equivalent. Experience: Equivalent would include: Associates degree in another discipline and two years of related work experience, OR high school diploma with four years of related work experience OR high school diploma with two years of related military experience. Related experience is listed under Principal Accountabilities. Successful completion of the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) is required for this position. A review of Employment Testing Information, Test-Taking Tips, together with the POSS Practice Tests may be helpful. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing. Possess a appropriate State driver's license. Must satisfactorily complete, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to Equipment Operator. This includes the ability to gain a working knowledge of all applicable operating instructions and procedures. Must successfully qualify for Equipment Operator 1st Yr. within three months. Must be available to work rotating shifts. Holidays and weekends as required. Must be available for call-out.
Other Requirements
1) Climb ladders & stairs a number of times each day. 2) Use fine dexterity to move switches & controls to precise locations 3) Detect color on alarms, equipment & other devices 4) Hear announcements on the Plant PA system, and to hear abnormal sounds of plant equipment 5) Communicate plant information by phone, in person or by radio 6) Work on heights, grating, platforms and catwalks. 7) Exert up to 50 lbs of pressure to manually turn off valves. 8) Able to stand or walk continuously for up to 8 hours.
Where You'll Work:
Tulsa, OK
What You'll Get For A Operator Helper:
$30.76
What You'll Get For A Equipment Operator Aft 1st YR
$35.80
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we're more than just an energy company - we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U070-964
Compensation Range:
$30.76 - $35.80
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M - Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.

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About American Electric Power

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AEP Energy is a certified competitive retail electricity and natural gas supply provider. We proudly serve residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. AEP Energy has over 100 years of industry experience with backing from our parent company, American Electric Power (AEP). AEP is one of the largest electric energy companies in the United States and ranked 204 of the Fortune 500.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1906

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