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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Racine, WI

Steele Solutions

Controls Engineer II

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$82.20K - $106.30K/yr

Team Development & Mentorship  * Assist in peer reviews and provide feedback on entry-level ... in controls programming, with demonstrated PLC/HMI project ownership. Other Key Skills

Kiongroup

Controls Commissioning Engineer

Wauwatosa, WI

$67.13K - $98.45K/yr

Dematic is seeking a talented entry level Controls Commissioning Engineers to join our Americas Project Engineering teams! The Controls Project Engineering team performs engineering assignments with ...

Steele Solutions

Controls Engineer I

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$82.20K - $106.30K/yr

This entry-level role provides foundational exposure to PLC logic, HMI development, and electrical ... controls programming or automation systems (internships/co-ops acceptable). Other Key Skills

Kiongroup

Controls Commissioning Engineer

Wauwatosa, WI

$67.13K - $98.45K/yr

Dematic is seeking a talented entry level Controls Commissioning Engineers to join our Americas Project Engineering teams! The Controls Project Engineering team performs engineering assignments with ...

Steele Solutions

Electrical Engineer I

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

... controls and automation solutions that reduce risk, accelerate deployment, and drive reliable ... This entry-level role is ideal for recent graduates looking to apply engineering fundamentals in a ...

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Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Racine, WI salary details

$51.6K

$90.6K

$122.8K

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Racine, WI is $90,555.00, 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 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 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 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.
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Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Racine, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,555 per year, or $43.5 per hour.
Controls Engineer II

Controls Engineer II

Steele Solutions

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$82.20K - $106.30K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Steele Solutions Inc.

Steele Solutions Inc. is the nation’s leading designer and manufacturer of steel work platforms and mezzanines supporting automation and material handling systems across the U.S. Through our new and rapidly growing Automation Division (SSI Automation), we deliver intelligent, turnkey controls and automation solutions that reduce risk, accelerate deployment, and drive reliable performance.


Summary

Under moderate supervision, the Controls Engineer II is responsible for developing, programming, and commissioning control systems for material handling and automation projects. This role builds upon foundational experience, expanding responsibilities to include independent PLC programming, HMI configuration, system documentation, and increased field support. The Controls Engineer II begins contributing to repeatable code modules and supports standardization efforts.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.


System Architecture & Standardization 

  • Apply established control system design templates with limited oversight.
    • Maintain and modify I/O lists, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts for small to mid-size projects.
    • Contribute to development of internal code libraries and reusable HMI components.

Technical Leadership & Execution 

  • Independently develop PLC code for standard transport conveyor systems and basic sortation.
  • Design and configure HMI screens and system visualization tools.
  • Conduct FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing) and support SAT (Site Acceptance Testing).
  • Perform basic troubleshooting of control hardware and logic in both bench and field settings.

Team Development & Mentorship 

  • Assist in peer reviews and provide feedback on entry-level engineering work.
  • Share knowledge and lessons learned through informal mentoring and documentation.
  • Begin developing internal documentation such as how-to guides and templates.

Cross-Functional Collaboration 

  • Coordinate with Electrical Engineers to validate I/O design and panel layouts.
  • Interface with Project Managers to understand scope, schedule, and deliverables.
  • Support installation subcontractors during system build and startup.

Strategic Growth & Innovation 

  • Identify repeatable patterns in project execution to improve design standards.
  • Recommend minor process improvements to internal standards or commissioning workflow.
  • Remain current with developments in control platforms, industrial networking, and emerging technologies.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field.
  • 2–4 years of experience in controls programming, with demonstrated PLC/HMI project ownership.

Other Key Skills

  • Proficiency in programming with RSLogix 5000, Studio 5000, TIA Portal, or TwinCAT.
  • HMI experience with Ignition, FactoryTalk View, or similar platforms.
  • Understanding safety circuits, VFD integration, and remote I/O architectures.
  • Capable of managing workload on 1–2 concurrent projects.
  • Ability to travel (up to 20%) for on-site commissioning and support.
  • Solid communication and troubleshooting skills.

Why Will You Love Working Here?

• A collaborative culture.

• Opportunities to make a real impact as we grow.

• Competitive pay, great benefits, and a great team.

• Celebrations, volunteer days, and moments that make work more than just “work”!


Steele Solutions offers an opportunity to grow your career while contributing to the development of innovative automation solutions in a collaborative engineering environment.


Are You Ready to Join the SSi Team?