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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

$16 - $20.75/hr

As an Instrumentation and Controls Engineer Intern, you will be a part of a growing team that supports all aspects of the construction process by performing innovative design engineering through ...

Controls Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, control panels, sensors, instrumentation, motor controls, and related equipment. * Review and modify PLC programming and control logic as needed. * Support equipment startup ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$25

$49

$74

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in Tennessee is $49.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.61 and $56.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $102,947 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Instrumentation & Controls Engineer - Kiewit Nuclear Solutions

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Kiewit
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Requisition ID: 181890

Job Level: Entry Level

Home District/Group: Kiewit Nuclear Solutions

Department: Design Engineering

Market: Nuclear

Employment Type: Full Time

Position Overview

Kiewit Nuclear Solutions is seeking entry level Instrumentation and Controls Engineers. We are looking for ideal candidates to grow the Kiewit team by helping establish, maintain, and improve company standards and tools while also using these standards and tools to contribute to project success. As an entry-level I&C Engineer, you will be a part of a growing team that supports all aspects of the construction process by performing innovative design engineering through brainstorming conceptual designs, performing and/or reviewing calculations, developing plans, scheduling tasks to meet client needs, as well as mitigating risk to keep our construction crews safe.

District Overview

Kiewit Nuclear Solutions provides comprehensive engineering, procurement, and construction services throughout North America, with expertise spanning all facets of the nuclear sector—from carbon-free small modular reactors to Department of Energy initiatives. Our services support clients in the power utility, renewable energy, industrial, and infrastructure industries.

Supported by Kiewit's 140-year tradition of excellence, our integrated teams deliver solutions that distinguish us within the market. As our nuclear operations continue to grow, adding new locations across the United States, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safety, quality, and innovation, equipping our professionals with advanced technologies and resources.

Joining our team offers unique opportunities for growth and achievement. Employees benefit from rigorous training, continuous skill development, and participation in impactful projects across North America. In addition to a dynamic work environment, Kiewit provides competitive health benefits, a 401k plan, and avenues for professional advancement.

Kiewit offers a full-service consulting and engineering firm serving the infrastructure and energy markets. With more than 2,000 engineers and design professionals, our expertise spans all major engineering disciplines to serve transportation, power, water/wastewater, mining, building, and oil, gas & chemical markets.

Location

This role is in Oak Ridge, TN or Lenexa, KS.

Responsibilities
  • Work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team to interpret and fulfill client operational and business requirements, specifying equipment and contributing to design solutions
  • Develop familiarity with departmental design standards, engineering codes, and company guidelines; offer recommendations to enhance processes and practices as appropriate
  • Assist in feasibility and planning studies by analyzing client data, researching options, coordinating with project engineers, and providing informed recommendations
  • Support the development of I&C design deliverables, including but not limited to: Master Instrument Indexes, Alarm Setpoint/Range Lists, Area Classification Guides, Control Philosophy Narratives, Instrument Mounting Details, Instrument Rack Layouts, and Field Instrument Requirements
  • Help administer instrumentation and control equipment contracts, including systems such as FMCS, DCS, Remote Input/Output Cabinets, and essential field instrumentation
  • Monitor and ensure timely submission of required project documentation and deliverables
  • Respond to client and contractor Requests for Information (RFIs) related to instrumentation and control systems, equipment operation, control logic, and startup procedures
  • Review and coordinate deliverables from other disciplines to ensure compatibility and integration with instrumentation and controls design
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Instrumentation and Controls or Electrical Engineering from an ABET accredited four- year college or university program
  • 3.0 cumulative GPA preferred
  • Familiarity with control system programming and basic knowledge of logic diagrams preferred
  • Some programming experience, especially with Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
  • Proficient in basic computer programs including MS Word and Excel, web browsing and e-mail programs
  • Strong work ethic, highly motivated and willing to do what it takes to get the job done right
  • Must be a US citizen with documentation for badge access
  • Pass a security questionnaire and background check appropriate to position duties
Other Requirements
  • Regular, reliable attendance
  • Work productively and meet deadlines timely
  • Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment.
  • Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
  • Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
  • May work at various different locations and conditions may vary.

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that’s among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884