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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Shop Helper

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Description Ascentec is hiring an entry-level shop helper at our Tualatin, Oregon location! This is ... Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is ...

Machinist II

Camas, WA · On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Machinist II Sigma Design is a product development, engineering, and manufacturing firm. Based out ... Mentors entry-level machinists in machine operation and basic techniques * Communicates setup and ...

Machinist II

Camas, WA · On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Machinist II Sigma Design is a product development, engineering, and manufacturing firm. Based out ... Mentors entry-level machinists in machine operation and basic techniques * Communicates setup and ...

Production Assembler - Day shift

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Assembler - Day shift

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR

$15.75 - $20/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR

$15.75 - $20/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Assembler - Day shift

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $20.25/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Production Associate

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Our highly engineered interior and structural aerospace products are supplied to the largest ... PECO-Controls are well established temperature control devices designed for applications where high ...

Showing results 21-37

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$58.3K

$102.4K

$138.9K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Portland, OR is $102,417.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,600.00 and $114,500.00 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Portland, OR 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 $102,417 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description

Ascentec is hiring an entry-level shop helper at our Tualatin, Oregon location! This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on training in the Precision Machining Industry. In this role, you will work in our shop and help with staging material, custodial duties (janitorial work), filling coolants - oils/lubricants, deburring, polishing, inspecting parts and learning to operate CNC machines, CMM's, Manual Parts Inspection, Assembly and Parts Finishing.


This position is onsite (not remote/not hybrid) and is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.   

Requirements

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: To include but not limited to the following:

Training and use of Forklift, Pallet Jacks

Load/unload materials and products

Assist with maintenance on machines within the Machine Shop

Ensure machine shop is clean and organized in appearance including removing trash and sweeping as required

Deburr and Assembly of precision machine components 

Use of power and hand tools; Torque wrenches, Heli coil installation, drills, Dremel, torque drivers - wrenches, files, pneumatic sanders, etc.

Read prints and inspect parts for conformance, typically +/- .005 tolerance

Check parts using basic measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, pin gages, thread gages and depth gauges

Introductory training on CNC operation of Haas, DMG Mori & Okuma controls 

Maintain a clean and orderly work area following prescribed safety standards


JOB QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

No previous experience required. Will train.

Minimum high school diploma or equivalent

Mechanical aptitude and attention to detail

Ability to communicate effectively

Experience with CNC, Assembly, Deburr, and Print reading capabilities are pluses 


PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Self-Starter / Self-Motivated / Flexible / Detail Oriented

Dependability and strong work ethic

Positive customer focused attitude

Enjoys fast pace and rapidly changing environment

Honest with good integrity

Professional demeanor and respectful to people in all situations

Willingness to help others as needs and tasks change often

Team player


WORKING CONDITIONS

May on a continuous basis walk, bend and lift to 50 lbs. 

The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate. 

Must be flexible to work varying schedules and hours as needed. 

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job, absent undue hardship. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.


Compensation/Benefits:

$17 to $18 per hour DOE 

Paid time off / Holiday pay

Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance 

Short- and long-term disability coverage 

401(k) with matching funds 

Profit sharing eligibility 

Educational aid program availability 


Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.


ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.


Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.