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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Lincoln, NE

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Lincoln, NE salary details

$47.9K

$84.1K

$114K

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 Lincoln, NE is $84,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,700.00 and $94,000.00 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 Lincoln, NE? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Lincoln, NE are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Lincoln, NE? For Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Lincoln, NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Lincoln, NE look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Lincoln, NE are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Lincoln, NE 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 $84,079 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

HVAC Controls Technician I (Niagara)

Daikinapplied

Lincoln, NE

$27.60 - $44.29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Join the world's largest HVAC company, named by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Employers 2025!

Daikin Applied is seeking a full-timeHVAC Controls Technician I (Niagara)to join our growing team. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals looking to start a career in building automation and controls, offering hands-on experience with Niagara-based Building Automation Systems (BAS) across a variety of commercial and industrial environments. In this position, you will support the installation, configuration, and maintenance of digital control systems while learning to program and troubleshoot Niagara platforms. Working under the guidance of experienced technicians, you will assist with system startups, point-to-point checkout, commissioning activities, service requests, maintenance agreements, and system upgrades. Daikin Applied provides comprehensive training through in-person instruction, online learning, and on-the-job experience to help you build a strong foundation in HVAC controls with a focus on Niagara systems. If you are motivated to learn, enjoy working with technology, and want to grow your career in a high-demand field, this is your opportunity to join a team driven by innovation, technical excellence, and professional growth. Make an impact and shape your career with a company passionate about growth. Come be part of an exciting journey at Daikin Applied, where innovation and excellence drive everything we do!

Location:Omaha, NE

Your Responsibilities:

  • Provide responsive and professional customer service with the goal of building and maintaining long-term customer relationships
  • Identify, analyze, diagnose, and troubleshoot direct digital control systems
  • Perform preventative maintenance, commissioning, and replacement modifications as needed or requested by customers
  • Maintain building automation systems by inspecting trend logs, reports, schedules, applications, hardware, and programming
  • Provide controls technical support to HVAC technicians
  • Create and/or implement programming and graphics for new installations and retrofit projects
  • Commission controls installations and verify that control sequences meet scope, design, or specifications
  • Provide training and follow-ups for Customers and operations personnel
  • Complete work orders and review with customers for accuracy
  • Continually look for ways to improve our processes and ability to serve our customers effectively

Your Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Associate's Degree or technical school HVAC certification (preferred)
  • 0-2 years of related experience with increasing responsibility or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Previous experience with HVAC controls systems
  • Valid Driver's License and acceptable driving record
  • Required license(s) and/or training card as required by local law district
  • Rotational Emergency Call Support availability as required
  • Previous experience in mentoring less experienced technicians
  • EPA approved Universal Technician Certification (preferred)
  • OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Current first aid / CPR card (preferred)

Your Benefits:

Daikin Applied offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

  • Multiple medical insurance plan options plus dental and vision insurance
  • 401K retirement plan with employer match
  • Paid time off and company paid holidays
  • Paid sick time in accordance with the federal, state and local law
  • Tuition Reimbursement after 6 months of continuous service
  • Daikin Applied provides technicians with a logoed company vehicle, laptops, mobile devices, and other technologies

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position

The typical hourly pay rate for this position ranges from $27.60 - $44.29 in NE. The range displayed represents the pay range for all positions in the job grade which this position falls. Individual base pay will depend on a wide range of factors including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.

If you're looking for an engaging career with growth opportunities in a supportive environment, you'll love a career at Daikin Applied!