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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Texas

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Minimum required qualifications: • Associate or bachelor's degree in Instrumentation and Controls, Electronical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred. • Work experience or technical ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Minimum required qualifications: • Associate or bachelor's degree in Instrumentation and Controls, Electronical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred. • Work experience or technical ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX

$68K - $88K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in Instrumentation and Controls, Electronical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred. Work experience or technical certificate/program in lieu of degree will be ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX

$68K - $88K/yr

Minimum required qualifications: • Associate or bachelor's degree in Instrumentation and Controls, Electronical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred. • Work experience or technical ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Minimum required qualifications: • Associate or bachelor's degree in Instrumentation and Controls, Electronical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred. • Work experience or technical ...

Controls Engineer This role provides automation and control engineering support for liquid and ... Integrate and troubleshoot electrical controls, sensors, instrumentation, and control components.

Controls Engineer II

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagram, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagram, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Dallas, TX · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Dallas, TX · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Controls Engineer II

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

A solid understanding of instrumentation and controls (I&C) * A solid understanding of engineering documentation (P&IDs, process flow diagrams, standard operating procedures) * Experience with field ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$26

$50

$76

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in Texas is $50.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.66 and $57.79 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 Texas? For Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 26% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,673 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Richardson, TX

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER

The Job

Our office in Richardson, TX is looking for an Automation & Controls Engineer who will collaborate with a broader team of engineering professionals to provide engineering services on complex capital improvement projects for industrial and manufacturing clients across the country. Specifically, we need someone to design automation and controls systems for heavy industrial projects.

Specific responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Instrumentation design on projects for new plants and existing plant upgrades
  • Design and develop control panels for industrial systems and manufacturing operations
  • Design, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment and plants that use Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC’s)
  • PLC and HMI programming for various types of plant processes
  • Work with other project team members to foster a continuous learning environment
  • Participate in on-site systems and facilities inspections for customers
  • Perform on-site commissioning and start-ups of plant controls systems
  • Guide the work of Designers on the project team
  • Review and check the work of others on the project team
  • Be able to analyze plant processes and help make improvements based on their knowledge of electronics, engineering, and mechanics
  • Support business development and proposal efforts providing technical scope, budget, and scheduling information
  • Begin to establish industry ties at the technical, professional, and commercial level
  • Perform other responsibilities as assigned or deemed appropriate of the position by management

Your Background

To succeed in this role, you need to meet the following basic requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer science
  • 2-10 years of experience in instrumentation design and/or controls
  • Specific experience in instrumentation and controls design in a manufacturing setting
  • PLC and HMI programming experience on the Allen Bradley platform (Required)
  • Wonderware and Ignition experience (Required)
  • Red Lion, Crimson and Simatic step7 (Siemens) knowledge is a plus
  • AutoCAD experience (Required)
  • Willing to travel, as needed (up to 30%)
  • Multi-discipline project leadership experience
  • Adaptable, striving to find creative solutions to problems as they arise and assist in the implementation process
  • Able to identify and provide reliable solutions for technical issues to assure complete customer satisfaction through all stages of the process

Benefits:

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.


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