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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in California

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$97K - $128K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$97K - $128K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$134K - $178K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$134K - $178K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$134K - $178K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA (NFAC) Job ... Collaborate with and guide Electricians, Instrumentation technicians and other Craft in design ...

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Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$28

$53

$80

How much do entry level instrumentation & controls engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in California is $53.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.97 and $61.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you need a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering and a solid understanding of process control fundamentals. Familiarity with PLC/DCS programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software like AutoCAD or MATLAB is typically required, and certifications such as EIT/FE can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative engineering environments. These competencies ensure accurate system design, smooth project execution, and effective troubleshooting in complex industrial settings.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level instrumentation & controls engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you can expect to assist with designing, configuring, and testing control systems for industrial processes, such as those found in power plants, manufacturing, or water treatment facilities. Your responsibilities may include creating wiring diagrams, selecting and specifying instrumentation, supporting field installations, and collaborating with senior engineers or project managers. You'll also likely help troubleshoot control system issues and participate in commissioning activities, providing valuable hands-on experience. This role offers a blend of office-based design work and on-site support, giving you exposure to both technical and practical aspects of engineering projects.

What does an entry level instrumentation & controls engineer do?

An Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer assists with the design, installation, and maintenance of systems that measure and control industrial processes. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to develop control systems, select appropriate instruments, and ensure that equipment operates safely and efficiently. Typical responsibilities include preparing technical documentation, troubleshooting control systems, and supporting project execution. This role often serves as a starting point for engineers interested in automation, process control, or industrial systems.

What is the difference between Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer vs Entry Level Electrical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Instrumentation & Controls EngineerEntry Level Electrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like CAP or ISA are a plusBachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license optional for entry level
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation systemsPower plants, electronics manufacturing, construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageProcess industries, automation companies, oil & gas, manufacturingUtilities, electronics, consulting firms, construction
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineers focus on designing, installing, and maintaining control systems and instrumentation used in industrial processes, while Entry Level Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but serve different technical functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 27% Contract, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,940 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Assistant Engineer II - Instrumentation & Controls (Experienced)

Hazen and Sawyer

San Diego, CA • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Hazen and Sawyer is seeking an experienced AE II in our I&C group in one of our office locations in California: Los Angeles, Irvine, San Diego, or Concord.

Why Hazen and Sawyer:

  • Founded in 1951 by the son of Allen Hazen (developer of the Hazen-Williams equation), we are an employee-owned company with a singular focus on "all things water."
  • Our work includes planning, design, and oversight of construction of environmental infrastructure – for water, wastewater, and stormwater management.
  • We foster a work environment low on bureaucracy and high in creativity.
  • We recruit talented professionals, provide them with challenging, interesting, and creative assignments, and furnish them with the tools they need to succeed.
  • We currently have over 2,000 employees in 70+ offices throughout the United States, Latin America, Canada, and the UK.
  • A flexible hybrid work schedule supports today's busy professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), control system network diagrams, control panel wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, I&C system specifications, and installation details.
  • Coordinate with the other disciplines (process/mechanical, structural, architectural, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and site civil).
  • Inspect, test, and approve I&C work provided by contractors at water and wastewater facilities.

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or Auto CAD Plant 3D software or be willing to learn.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products is required.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.
  • Knowledge of water/wastewater or industrial process instrumentation and equipment is desirable.
  • Prior working experience or internship in the water and wastewater industry is highly desirable.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certificate, or ability to obtain within 1 year is desirable.
  • 2-5 years of experience.

What We Offer:

  • Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans).
  • Pre-tax flexible spending plans for medical, dependent care, and transportation.
  • Short and long-term disability, and employer paid life insurance.
  • Paid holidays, floating holidays, and paid time off (PTO).
  • Employer-contributed 401(k) plan and additional financial planning support.
  • Professional growth opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, in-house training, and incentives for professional registration and professional organization memberships. 
  • Starting pay range for this position depends on skills, experience, education and geographical location.


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HAZEN AND SAWYER logo

About HAZEN AND SAWYER

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hazen and Sawyer, headquartered in New York, NY, US, operates within the field of environmental science and engineering. Founded in 1951, the firm specializes in designing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater facilities, comprehensive solid waste services, and other environmental infrastructure projects. Striving towards nurturing clean, safe water supply, the company upholds it as its primary mission. Their dedication reflects in their numerous honors received at the national and regional levels, including awards from the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Council of Engineering Companies, and Water Environment Federation.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1951

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