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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

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Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Controls Engineer / Power Generation Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer Houston, TX $145,000 ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation or a related engineering discipline ...

As an Instrumentation & Control Engineer, you will design, develop, and support process control systems that optimise plant performance and ensure safe, reliable operation. You'll be responsible for ...

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer will also play a key role in developing Controls design standards and ... Familiar with Instrumentation and different process inputs/voltages * Basic AutoCAD experience and ...

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer will also play a key role in developing Controls design standards and ... Familiar with Instrumentation and different process inputs/voltages * Basic AutoCAD experience and ...

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer will also play a key role in developing Controls design standards and ... Familiar with Instrumentation and different process inputs/voltages * Basic AutoCAD experience and ...

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 ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Houston, TX

$80K - $104K/yr

... instrumentation/electrical designs, check-out/start-up support, etc. Technical * Deliver process ... Engineering (preference for Electrical/Controls, Chemical or Mechanical). General * Strong ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

... instrumentation/electrical designs, check-out/start-up support, etc. Technical * Deliver process ... Engineering (preference for Electrical/Controls, Chemical or Mechanical). General * Strong ...

I&C Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$58/hr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, or related) or equivalent experience ... Proven experience developing control system documentation, electrical, and instrumentation design ...

I&C Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$58/hr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, or related) or equivalent experience ... Proven experience developing control system documentation, electrical, and instrumentation design ...

I&C Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$58/hr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, or related) or equivalent experience ... Proven experience developing control system documentation, electrical, and instrumentation design ...

I&C Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$58/hr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, or related) or equivalent experience ... Proven experience developing control system documentation, electrical, and instrumentation design ...

I&C Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$58/hr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, or related) or equivalent experience ... Proven experience developing control system documentation, electrical, and instrumentation design ...

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Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$27

$52

$78

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

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in Houston, TX is $52.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.62 and $59.23 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 Houston, TX? For Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,318 per year, or $52.1 per hour.
Entry-Level Electrical Controls Engineer (Data Centers)

Entry-Level Electrical Controls Engineer (Data Centers)

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc

Houston, TX

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 hours ago


Job description

Entry-Level Controls Engineer / Field Engineer (Data Centers)

Launch Your Engineering Career in Industrial Automation

An established engineering and systems integration firm is seeking an Entry-Level Controls Engineer / Field Engineer to support commissioning, startup, testing, and controls integration for mission-critical data center projects throughout the United States.

This is an excellent opportunity for recent engineering graduates or candidates with up to two years of experience who want to build a career in industrial automation, controls engineering, and commissioning while receiving mentorship from experienced engineering professionals.

What You'll Do
  • Assist with the installation, testing, commissioning, and startup of industrial control systems.
  • Verify installation and wiring of control panels, field instruments, sensors, and electrical equipment.
  • Perform point-to-point I/O testing to validate field devices and control system communications.
  • Support Functional Performance Testing (FPT) by verifying alarms, graphics, trends, control sequences, and system operation.
  • Assist with integrated system testing to ensure multiple systems function together as designed.
  • Support PLC, HMI, and SCADA programming, troubleshooting, and startup activities.
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and control drawings.
  • Work closely with engineers, contractors, commissioning teams, and customers to complete project milestones.
  • Document testing results, commissioning activities, and project reports.
  • Develop technical skills through hands-on field experience and mentorship.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Associate degree with relevant technical or field experience will also be considered.
  • Recent graduates and candidates with 0–2 years of experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Basic knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, instrumentation, or industrial controls.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
  • Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively.
Preferred Skills
  • PLC programming exposure
  • SCADA or HMI software experience
  • Industrial automation coursework or internships
  • Electrical controls and instrumentation
  • Low-voltage control systems
  • Commissioning and startup support
  • Mission-critical or data center environments
  • Strong attention to detail and quality
Travel Requirements
  • 25% if located in Tulsa OK, Lubbock, Midland, Houston TX or Monroe LA
  • Company-paid travel, lodging, meals, and project-related expenses.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive salary ($70,000–$80,000 based on experience)
  • Performance bonus opportunities
  • Employee ownership and retirement programs
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts
  • Ongoing technical training and career development
Why Join Us?

This role provides an outstanding opportunity to gain hands-on experience with industrial automation, PLCs, SCADA systems, commissioning, and startup activities while working on some of the most advanced mission-critical facilities in the country. You'll receive mentorship, develop valuable technical skills, and have a clear path for career advancement into Controls Engineering.

To apply, send your resume to

Patrick DelGaone

#Controls

#EntryLevel

#Engineering

Company Description

Libertyjobs.com has become an essential destination site for experienced job seekers. Our recruiters are continually posting active job openings to the website. Feel free to search our database of open positions and apply for your next career move!
Hundreds of new jobs are listed on the site every month in a wide range of industries and locations. Last year we had over 900,000 unique job seekers visit our website, which means over 75,000 skilled job seekers search our openings every month.
Established in 2003, Liberty Personnel quickly grew into one of the largest technical recruiting agencies on the East Coast. Today, Liberty Personnel has a national presence and a diverse client base. Listed below are a number of the industries and openings we work on:
Information Technology, Software Programmers, Engineering, Manufacturing, Legal, Plant Maintenance, Construction, Oil and Gas, Medical Communications, Accounting, Finance, Electronics, Scientific, Medical Device, Sales, Pharmaceutical, Admin, Automation, Controls, Civil, HVAC, Wastewater, Structural, Electrical, Chemists, Validations, Logistics, Food Production, Renewable Energy and Machinists.