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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Birmingham, AL

4pconsultinginc

Controls Engineer I

Hueytown, AL · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Controls Engineer I Location: 2901 Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive, Hueytown AL, 35023 Duration: 1 ... This entry-level engineering role is ideal for candidates with a strong electrical engineering ...

4pconsultinginc

Controls Technician I

Hueytown, AL · On-site

$26.75 - $35.25/hr

This entry-level technical role is ideal for candidates with foundational electrical knowledge who ... Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) * Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs) * Sensors * Pumps and ...

All JobsControls Engineer JobsEntry Level Controls Engineer JobsEntry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$51.6K

$90.5K

$122.8K

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Birmingham, AL is $90,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $101,300.00 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 Birmingham, AL? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL? For Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Birmingham, AL are:
What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Birmingham, AL 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 Birmingham, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $90,541 per year, or $43.5 per hour.

Controls Engineer I

4pconsultinginc

Hueytown, AL • On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Position: Controls Engineer I
Location: 2901 Allison-Bonnett Memorial Drive, Hueytown AL, 35023

Duration: 1 Year

Client: Alabama Power

Position Overview

The Controls Engineer I supports the installation, maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of protection and control systems used in power substations. This entry-level engineering role is ideal for candidates with a strong electrical engineering foundation who are seeking hands-on experience in utility protection and control systems.

The position requires a solid understanding of electrical principles, relay logic, PLC systems, and the ability to work both independently and under the guidance of senior engineers or project leads.

Key Responsibilities

Protection & Control Systems

  • Install, maintain, and troubleshoot protection and control relaying systems and associated devices
  • Install, program, and maintain microprocessor relays and related equipment
  • Perform calibration of protection and control relays and devices
  • Support monitoring systems for substation protection

Field & Project Support

  • Assist assigned project leads with field assignments
  • Support documentation development and updates for protection and control systems
  • Participate in process hazard analyses (PHA)
  • Maintain compliance with safety and regulatory requirements

Technical Systems & Equipment

Work with equipment including:

  • Microprocessor relays
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
  • Sensors
  • Pumps and motors
  • AC and DC systems

Continuous Learning

  • Maintain knowledge of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in protection and control

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical Engineering preferred)
  • 0–3 years of engineering or related experience
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
  • Working knowledge of PLCs and HMIs
  • Experience with AC and DC systems
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
  • Must reside within reasonable commuting distance to assigned APC office location