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Entry Level Controls Technician Jobs in Tennessee

Controls Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians. * Ensure ... Benefits-US/CH_CN_DI_IB_LI_MA_MP_MW_OB_PH Entry level: Experienced hires Part- / Full-time: ...

... up from entry-level positions to senior-level management roles. Equal Opportunity Employer ... Experience installing and troubleshooting actuator controls * Installing seal kits for electric and ...

Production Technician I

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

This Sparta facility also produces marine mechanical steering, controls & cables. We are on a ... * Entry Level Position * Must be able to read and write * Continuous sitting, walking, bending ...

Troubleshoot and repair controls, automation components, sensors, motors, control drives, PLC ... COM US Facts about the job Benefits: Entry level: Experienced hires Part- / Full-time: Full Time ...

Production Technician I

Sparta, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... * Entry Level Position * Must be able to read and write * Continuous sitting, walking, bending ... Must use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls. * Continuous lifting and ...

RCT

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Mentor junior technicians in proper application of radiological protection techniques. * Implement ... controls (e.g., localized ventilation, temporary shielding, and containment devices). * Extensive ...

RCT

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Mentor junior technicians in proper application of radiological protection techniques. * Implement ... controls (e.g., localized ventilation, temporary shielding, and containment devices). * Extensive ...

Mentor junior technicians in proper application of radiological protection techniques. * Implement ... controls (e.g., localized ventilation, temporary shielding, and containment devices). * Extensive ...

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Entry Level Controls Technician information

See Tennessee salary details

$17

$30

$44

How much do entry level controls technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level controls technician in Tennessee is $30.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $34.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level controls technician?

An Entry Level Controls Technician is a professional who installs, maintains, and troubleshoots control systems, typically in industrial or commercial settings. These systems can include HVAC controls, building automation, or manufacturing machinery. The role is suitable for individuals with basic technical knowledge, often requiring an associate degree or technical certification. Entry level technicians work under supervision and gain hands-on experience while learning more advanced skills on the job.

What types of projects and systems will I typically work on as an entry level controls technician?

As an Entry Level Controls Technician, you will commonly be involved in installing, calibrating, and troubleshooting building automation systems, such as HVAC controls, lighting systems, and energy management devices. You'll often assist senior technicians on-site, learning to interpret wiring diagrams, program controllers, and ensure system functionality. Projects may include new construction, retrofits, or maintenance in commercial, industrial, or institutional settings. The role is hands-on and offers ample opportunities to develop technical expertise while collaborating with engineers, project managers, and other tradespeople.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level controls technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Controls Technician, you typically need a background in electrical or mechanical engineering principles, basic troubleshooting skills, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), building automation systems, and industry-standard diagnostic tools is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help technicians stand out when collaborating with teams and resolving system issues. These competencies ensure accurate installation, maintenance, and repair of control systems, which are vital for operational efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Entry Level Controls Technician vs Controls Technician?

AspectEntry Level Controls TechnicianControls Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical training or certificationsTypically requires technical certifications or associate degree
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plants, or automation settingsSimilar industrial and manufacturing environments
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in automation, manufacturing, and facilities managementMid-level roles with more experience required
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those starting in automation or manufacturingCompared for experience level or career progression

The Entry Level Controls Technician typically requires basic technical training and is suitable for those beginning their careers in automation and manufacturing. Controls Technicians usually have more experience and certifications, handling more complex systems. Both roles are found in similar industrial environments, but the Controls Technician role often involves greater responsibility and technical expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Controls Technician jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Controls Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Technician job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,134 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

MAHLE

Murfreesboro, TN • On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


MAHLE rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Your Contribution
As a Controls Engineer reporting to the Head of Supervisors, you will be responsible to provide advanced controls engineering expertise to diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve a wide range of manufacturing process issues. The Controls Engineer supports production operations by improving key plant performance metrics, including equipment downtime, customer PPM, defect rates, and overall process reliability.
This position is responsible for supporting all aspects of Controls Engineering, including PLC/HMI systems, automation reliability, industrial networks, traceability systems, and manufacturing data management. The role also partners with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives, support root cause analysis, and ensure stable, efficient, and repeatable automated processes.
This role is responsible to:
  • Lead and support equipment troubleshooting events, in collaboration with process engineering and maintenance.
  • Participate with project teams to define and develop PLC programs for the plant, with the target to improve key plant measurable related to safety, quality and productivity.
  • Perform automation start-up and post start-up support for internal and external customer projects, both on software and hardware side.
  • Provide internal and external customer project feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Support the First-time thru quality initiative while customizing PLC program.
  • Document and maintain records of projects and PLC revisions.
  • Design, program, and troubleshoot PLCs (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Omron) and HMIs (PanelView, WinCC, Weintek).
  • Develop and integrate control systems for automation equipment, robotics (KUKA, FANUC, Kawasaki), and vision systems (Keyence, Cognex).
  • Lead system integration projects including testing, debugging, commissioning, and documentation.
  • Supervise installation and adjustment of control systems to meet specifications and compliance standards.
  • Manage project scope, schedule, and budget, ensuring timely delivery and cost control.
  • Coordinate cross-functional teams (maintenance, production, engineering, vendors) to support automation upgrades and new line launches.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
  • Ensure compliance with NEC, NFPA, OSHA, and industry safety standards.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Just-In-Sequence concepts.
  • Production computer systems upgrading and maintaining computer programs, Device Wise, SQL, ACC, Lab View

Your Experience & Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Mechatronics engineering with extended experience working on automated processes environment.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience with solid knowledge in programming with Allen Bradley Rockwell Automation Software including Studio 5000 and Siemens S7.
  • Control Logix/RSLogix 5000, SLC 500/RSLogix 500, ability to program using Ladder Diagram, Functional Block Diagram, Structured Text and HMI Panel View.

Our Offering
We will provide a collaborative environment working on exciting assignments, along with ongoing personal & career development opportunities. We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every single requirement. You may just be the right candidate for this or other roles!
After receiving your online application, the interview process will typically be a screening call followed by Personal Interview(s)
For more information about MAHLE and what a career with us looks like for you, click here. and to learn more about our foundation owned technology group click here.
#DiversityMatters with our inclusive culture, we welcome applications from all social, religious & ethnical backgrounds, disabilities both mental and physical, identities (gender) and neurodivergent people.
MAHLE is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment-based non-immigrant and immigrant visas. However, as a global company, MAHLE offers many job opportunities outside of USA which can be found through our employment website www.jobs.mahle.com
Do you have any questions?
MEGHA.A.GUPTA@MAHLE.COM
US
Facts about the job
Benefits: Benefits-US/CH_CN_DI_IB_LI_MA_MP_MW_OB_PH
Entry level: Experienced hires
Part- / Full-time: Full Time
Functional area: Production
Department: BU2 Thermal and Fluid Systems
Location:

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