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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Council Bluffs, IA

This entry-level role focuses on assisting with mechanical design, documentation, testing, and ... Familiarity with machine controls, PLC Hardware and Software * The ability to handle multiple tasks ...

The Finance Analyst is an entry level role focused on supporting a project in accounting and ... Our construction and engineering projects span across the United States, Canada and Mexico ...

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Council Bluffs, IA salary details

$51.3K

$90.1K

$122.2K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Council Bluffs, IA is $90,113.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,900.00 and $100,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities near Council Bluffs, IA are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Council Bluffs, IA with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Council Bluffs, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,113 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Controls Engineering New Graduate | Omaha, NE

IMEG

Omaha, NE • On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


IMEG rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

317th of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Controls New Graduate | Omaha, NE
100% Employee-Owned • Big-firm resources, local-team relationships, ONE IMEG culture
This posting is for Summer 2027 New Graduate opportunities.
IMEG, formerly Optimized Systems, is hiring a Controls New Graduate in Omaha, NE to support the design and analysis of control systems and engineered controls documents for client projects. This entry-level role offers hands-on design, analysis, and project execution experience, with mentorship, training, and opportunities to grow your expertise from day one.
Working closely with experienced engineers and consultants, you'll support project planning, budget awareness, documentation, quality control, and multidisciplinary coordination while helping deliver controls solutions that meet project goals and client expectations. This opportunity sits within our Strategic Growth Services work, with exposure to building performance, controls, and commissioning implementation.
At a Glance
Location: Omaha, NE
Discipline: Controls
Markets: Strategic Growth Services
Ownership: 100% employee-owned (ESOP)
Travel: Up to 5%
Work Schedule: full-time in office
Sponsorship: Not available
What You'll Do
  • Complete assigned engineering tasks of moderate complexity in support of controls projects

  • Assist in the design and analysis of control systems, including network systems, three phase motor starter controls, PLC and Scada system designs, and control system enclosures

  • Support the development of engineering solutions and controls designs for specific projects with the Project Designer

  • Provide hardware and software specifications for control system design

  • Use engineering software and tools to create detailed designs, specifications, and calculations according to code requirements and IMEG standards

  • Work with the Designer Technician to produce customer submittal documents, including motor control schematics, network architecture, schematics and loop drawings, IO lists, and device connection schedules

  • Support project execution by assisting with planning, scheduling, and monitoring design progress against project deadlines and objectives

  • Document design decisions and client instructions throughout the project

  • Analyze low to medium complexity engineering tasks and collaborate with senior engineers and consultants to develop practical and efficient solutions

  • Participate in IMEG quality control processes to ensure designs and solutions meet IMEG quality standards, industry standards and client requirements

  • Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in electrical engineering, and contribute to research, development, and innovation efforts within IMEG

  • Prioritize safety in all aspects of engineering work and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including other engineers, architects, and project managers, to deliver integrated solutions that meet project goals

What You'll Bring
Required
Education
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree in Electrical Engineering, or equivalent required

Required Skills/Abilities
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and concepts involved in the production of technical plans and specifications

  • Knowledge of controls symbols and documents such as P&ID (Process & Instrumentation Diagram) drawings and symbols

  • Strong technical and analytical skills with hands-on experience in network systems (Ethernet/IP, fiber, POE, RS232/485, switches), PLC systems (processors, I/O, HMI/SCADA, analog/digital signals), electrical circuits (AC/DC, voltage drop, wiring, protection devices), and motor starters (FVNR, FVR, soft starts, VFDs, overload and grounding detection)

  • Knowledge of industry standard engineering software and tools. Familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical, Adobe or Bluebeam Revu

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

  • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

  • Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges

  • Ability to clearly communicate in both oral and written communication to individuals or groups

  • Proficient with MS Office Suite including but not limited to Word, Excel, Excel, and Outlook

  • Ability to travel up to 5% with occasional overnight stays

Preferred
  • Prior internship experience in the building design consulting industry preferred

  • Engineering in Training (EIT) License preferred

  • AutoCAD Electrical experience preferred

About the Team
  • Building performance, controls, and commissioning implementation

  • BAS, controls programming, PCx, integration, analytics, and owner-support

  • Strategic Growth Services

  • Recent work includes UNMC Project Health - Controls Delivery, Healthcare / Controls, and Lewis Central High School PCx & Integration, Education / Commissioning & Integration.

Why IMEG
We put people at the center of who we are, creating positive outcomes for people, communities, and our planet.
  • Consultancy 101: our structured development program that builds your consulting and technical foundation from day one

  • An assigned mentor to guide your growth from day one

  • IDEA Program: a firm-wide innovation accelerator where employees across every discipline develop and scale new tools, from VR and AI to carbon-reduction technology

  • MEG, our in-house AI platform, helps employees find information and build agents that streamline project workflows and calculations

  • Employee ownership (ESOP): fully vested at all times, with a 3% to 6% company contribution, plus year-end profit sharing

  • PE, SE, and other license exam prep, with a clear path from EIT to PE

  • Dress for Your Day flexibility (wear what fits your day)

  • Generous time off, including 6 paid holidays and 3 additional floating holidays

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting day one, with preventive care at 100%, a $50/month wellness credit, and a Calm subscription

Bring Your Career to IMEG
Apply today and start building your career at IMEG while helping create positive outcomes for people, communities, and our planet.
IMEG, an employee-owned corporation, is committed to investing in employees' futures through professional development programs and opportunities for career advancement. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including generous PTO, flexible schedule, and assistance with tuition reimbursement. Additionally, employees are eligible to enroll in health, dental, vision, and life insurance on their first day of employment.
Want to learn more about IMEG and our other amazing career opportunities? Please visit https://www.imegcorp.com/careers/.
IMEG is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), gender, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), parental status (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation), ethnic origin, hair type (including hairstyle or hair texture), citizenship status, marital status, military service, veteran's status, political affiliation, non-merit-based factors, or any other characteristic protected by law. In accordance with antidiscrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to put into effect these principles and mandates. IMEG prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. IMEG conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
All applicants have the right to request access, correction, and deletion of their personal information from our system. In order to make a request, please email careers@imegcorp.com.

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