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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Cybercoders

Controls Engineer (I / II)

Chino, CA

$70K - $105K/yr

We are seeking both entry-level and mid-level (Level II) Controls Engineers to join a growing engineering team focused on designing, programming, and supporting automated industrial equipment. This ...

RIX INDUSTRIES

Manufacturing Test Engineer

Benicia, CA

$100K/yr

Manufacturing Test Engineer Location: Benicia, CA Job Type: Full time Requisition ID: JR100065 RIX ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate instrumentation, controls, and mechanical ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

SUMMARY Responsible for providing electrical engineering expertise to support the site's electrical ... Instrumentation * PLC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES * Skilled in 120v control wiring and 3 phase ...

RIX INDUSTRIES

Manufacturing Test Engineer

Benicia, CA · On-site

Manufacturing Test Engineer Location: Benicia, CA Job Type: Full time Requisition ID: JR100065 RIX ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate instrumentation, controls, and mechanical ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

SUMMARY Responsible for providing electrical engineering expertise to support the site's electrical ... Instrumentation * PLC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES * Skilled in 120v control wiring and 3 phase ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

SUMMARY Responsible for providing electrical engineering expertise to support the site's electrical ... Instrumentation * PLC KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES * Skilled in 120v control wiring and 3 phase ...

Protech Staffing Service Inc.

Be Seen First

Controls Engineer / Controls Technician

Tracy, CA · On-site

$69K - $160K/yr

... instrumentation • Assist maintenance teams in diagnosing line-down situations and fault ... controls, and industrial automation systems • Experience troubleshooting electrical safety ...

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Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

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

As of Jun 9, 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,940 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Automation / Controls Engineer

Verus Associates, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Automation /Controls Engineer, San Diego, CA
Verus is looking for a self-motivated, organized, and results-driven Controls Engineer to join our collaborative team. Someone who is passionate about solving complex problems alongside our clients.
Our clients are important to us, and we are seeking someone who enjoys a good challenge, is accountable, well-organized, and takes pride in meeting deadlines and milestones.
The ideal candidate for this position has experience developing and programming various control systems. The candidate must be able to implement control strategies, design control panels, specify instrumentation, and program common PLC/HMI packages. The candidate must be comfortable working in both office and field environments. The position requires some travel domestically.
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who will fit in with our existing team - someone who is authentic, personable, trustworthy, and who has a good sense of humor, approachable, and humble.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
The responsibilities of the Controls Engineer include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Develop SCADA, HMI, and PLC programs based on control strategies and specifications
• Design control panels and specify components
• Develop system specifications and sequence of operations based on client requirements
• Perform system commissioning and field support functions
• Work with discipline leads, PMs, and other team members to manage and run programming efforts for the project.
• Prioritize and set deadlines, while also being adaptable and flexible to changing needs.
• Commission control system programming
• Conduct effective design review meetings and interface regularly with clients regarding the scope of work, deliverable requirements, and project status.
• Able to promote and market programming scope to new and existing clients.
• Mentor junior controls engineers.
• Able to generate and maintain full project life cycle documentation.
WHAT SETS VERUS APART?
Verus is a Latin word that means true, authentic, fair, and sincere. It's a word that we feel describes who we are as a firm. We pride ourselves on our client-focused approach, our innovation, and our desire to provide effective solutions to deliver our clients' business and operational objectives.
We've assembled a group of industry leaders who bring unparalleled technical experience and knowledge to each of our projects. We're an employee-owned company, and this is reflected in how we work together as a team, and how we take ownership in the work we do for our clients.
A few reasons to consider us:
  • Verus employees care for and respect one another
  • Our people and culture are genuine
  • We invest in our employees with competitive pay and benefits
  • We have a work hard, play hard culture and respect work/life balance
  • There are opportunities for growth.

Learn more about us at www.verusaec.com
Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science from an accredited university or equivalent experience
• 15+ years' applicable experience
• Experience successfully leveraging technology
• Track record of success with documented results
• PLC Programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Modicon, GE)
• HMI Programming (Ignition, Wonderware, Cimplicity, FTViewSE)
• Knowledge of computer configuration and networking
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary team
• Self-motivated, energetic individual with a can-do attitude
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Apply