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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 28, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,079 per year, or $40.4 per hour.

Assistant Project Manager - National Travel (December Grad)

Interstates

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Interstates rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Take Charge of Your Career at Interstates
At Interstates, we don't just show up to work, we show up for each other. From our headquarters in Iowa to job sites across the country, we're doing award-winning electrical, controls, automation, and OT work that powers industrial facilities for clients here in the U.S. and around the world. Whether you're bending conduit, wiring panels, writing code, supporting projects, or helping things run behind the scenes, you'll be part of a crew that works hard, shares laughs, and takes pride in doing quality work. We believe in building strong teams, doing the right thing, and making a difference in the communities where we live. If you want to grow and do meaningful work, you'll feel at home here.
So, you've got a degree, now comes the big questions: What's next? Skip the "entry-level job" that has you fetching coffee. At Interstates, you will jump into real projects, work alongside experienced mentors, travel across the country, and start building leadership skills from day one. At Interstates, we specialize in Electrical Construction, Engineering, Instrumentation, and Automation. Yes, that may sound like a mouthful, but we do not require any knowledge in those fields. We will teach you the industry as long as you bring the drive to learn. We believe in coaching, training, and development. If you're looking for a career where every day is different, your ideas matter, and your growth is a priority, we'd love to meet you!
As an Assistant Project Manager at Interstates, you'll work closely with our field crews to keep projects on track and ensure we deliver excellent work to clients, all while taking on some of the toughest challenges in the industry.
Here, integrity, trust and safety are always top of mind. Our work is exciting, and every single day is different. We will work together to solve problems, and we'll provide you with the training and support you need to craft a strong career path. You'll do it all at a dynamic, growing company that provides you with a competitive salary and outstanding benefits.
At Interstates, our success starts with yours.
Interstates Describes Its Culture as Family-Like
  • Caring co-workers treat each other like family
  • Be treated like an individual, not just a number
  • Flexible schedules allow you to focus on your personal life as well as work life
  • Lunch gatherings and social activities promotes fun and camaraderie
  • Support charities and your community through events sponsored and hosted by Interstates

Our Why:
  • Providing opportunities for our people
  • Making a difference with our clients
  • Pursuing a better way

Sound to good to be true? Put in your application today, and allow Interstates to prove to you why we are an Industry Leader in more ways than one.
What You'll Do:
  • Help manage exciting industrial construction projects across the United States.
  • Partner with Project Managers, Superintendents, customers, and field teams to keep projects moving forward.
  • Learn how to manage project schedules, budgets, materials, RFI's, submittals, and logistics.
  • Build relationships with customers and teammates while developing your leadership skills.
  • Travel to project sites and experience work that's anything but ordinary.
  • Grow through hands-on experience, mentorship, and leadership development.

Why Students Love This Opportunity:
  • Nationwide travel opportunities.
  • Mentorships from experienced leaders invested in your success.
  • Real career growth-not just another entry level job.
  • Leadership development from day one.
  • A people first culture where you're valued as a person, not just an employee.
  • Hands on experience that makes an impact.

We're Looking For Someone Who Is:
  • Ready to graduate in December.
  • Studying Construction Management, Engineering, Business, Project Management, or a related field.
  • Strong communicator who enjoys working with people.
  • Organized, motivated, and eager to solve problems.
  • Excited to travel and experience projects across the country.
  • Curious, coachable, and ready to learn.

What's in it for you? The base pay range for this position is $70,000-78,000. We invest in your future with competitive pay, mentorships, leadership training, comprehensive benefits, and a clear path for career advancement.
Travel: Able to travel to customer sites up to 100% of the time.
What is travel with Interstates?
  • You will be expected to relocate anywhere in the US for your project
  • You will be on one project from start to finish
  • Normal Project lifespan is anywhere from 6 months - 3 years

Benefits of Working at Interstates:
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan + Company Match
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Benefits (Short & Long-Term Disability, Group Life Insurance, and more)
  • Company Discount Perk Program (Access to discounts with renown brands across the country)
  • Paid Time Off & Holiday Pay, Flexible Schedule (Support work/life balance)
  • Bonus Incentives (End of Fiscal Year Incentives and Merit Increases)
  • Per Diem/Travel Pay or FAVR Program Benefits (as applicable)
  • Family & safety culture - a team that cares about you as a whole person, not just what you do at work
  • Company Sponsored Holiday Events, Team Celebrations, and Community Outreach Volunteer Time
  • Advancement Opportunities unique to our employee's long-term goals
  • Want to be a PM in 2-3 years. At Interstates, we can get you there!
  • Career Coaching
  • Not treated like a number, you are apart of our FAMILY

What You Should Know Before You Apply
Interstates may collect personal information as part of your job application, such as your contact details, work history, education, and any information you provide. This information is used only for recruitment, to evaluate your candidacy, and to meet legal requirements. For details about our privacy practices and your rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), please see our Privacy Policy. By applying, you acknowledge that you have reviewed this notice.
Interstates is an EEO provider and offers a drug-free workplace. Employment at Interstates is at-will and may be terminated at any time with or without notice or cause, except as otherwise provided by law.

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