ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Project Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sunbelt Controls

Controls Design Engineer I

Azusa, CA · On-site

Additionally, the individual is required to closely interact with the Project Manager and/or ... Participates in the ongoing development program with other entry level engineers. EDUCATION AND ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProject Controls JobsEntry Level Project Controls JobsEntry Level Project Controls Jobs in California

Entry Level Project Controls information

See California salary details

$19

$43

$65

How much do entry level project controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level project controls in California is $43.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.58 and $50.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is project control a good career?

Entry level project controls roles involve monitoring project schedules, budgets, and progress to ensure successful completion. The field offers opportunities for growth with skills in scheduling software, data analysis, and certifications like PMP or CCP. It is a stable career path in industries such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level project controls professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level project controls professionals often encounter challenges such as mastering complex scheduling software, understanding project cost tracking, and adapting to rapidly changing project priorities. To overcome these, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, proactively ask questions, and take advantage of training resources provided by the employer. Building strong communication skills is also key, as collaborating with project managers, engineers, and finance teams is a regular part of the role. Embracing a continuous learning mindset will help you adapt quickly and contribute effectively to project success.

What is the difference between Entry Level Project Controls vs Entry Level Cost Estimator?

AspectEntry Level Project ControlsEntry Level Cost Estimator
Required CredentialsAssociate's/Bachelor's in Construction Management, Engineering, or related fieldsAssociate's/Bachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or related fields
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, engineering firmsConstruction companies, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsagePlanning, scheduling, cost control, project monitoringCost analysis, budgeting, bid preparation, pricing

Entry Level Project Controls focuses on tracking project progress, scheduling, and cost management, while Entry Level Cost Estimator specializes in preparing cost estimates and budgets. Both roles require related educational backgrounds and are essential in construction and engineering projects, but they emphasize different aspects of project financials and planning.

What are entry level project controls?

Entry level project controls refer to junior roles focused on supporting the planning, monitoring, and reporting of projects, often in industries like construction, engineering, or IT. People in these positions assist with tasks such as tracking project schedules, costs, and resources, as well as preparing progress reports and identifying potential risks. They typically work under the supervision of senior project controllers or managers, helping to ensure projects stay on budget and on schedule. Entry level project controls positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to project management, offering valuable experience and exposure to project management processes.

How do you get a PM job with no experience?

Entry level project controls roles often require some knowledge of project management principles, scheduling software like Primavera or MS Project, and basic understanding of construction or engineering processes. Gaining relevant certifications such as CAPM or PMP, even at an entry level, and demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills can improve chances of securing a project management position without prior experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Project Controls professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Controls professional, you need a basic understanding of project management principles, cost control, scheduling, and a relevant bachelor’s degree such as engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and Excel, as well as foundational knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM), is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with project teams and interpret project data. These competencies are essential for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to scope.

What is an entry level job in project management?

An entry level project controls position is a role suitable for individuals starting their careers in project management, focusing on supporting project planning, scheduling, cost tracking, and reporting. These roles often require basic knowledge of project management tools like MS Project or Primavera and may involve working under supervision to gain experience in managing project scope, timelines, and budgets.

How do I get into project controls?

To enter project controls, candidates typically need a background in engineering, construction, or related fields, along with strong skills in scheduling, cost management, and data analysis. Gaining experience with tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project and obtaining certifications such as PMI's Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) can improve job prospects. Entry-level roles often require a bachelor's degree and good organizational skills to support project planning and monitoring activities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Controls jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Controls jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Controls jobs in California? For Entry Level Project Controls jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Controls jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Controls jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Project Controls jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Project Controls job openings:
Entry Level Project Controls jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Controls job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,985 per year, or $43.3 per hour.
Junior Project Controls Specialist - Scheduler

Junior Project Controls Specialist - Scheduler

PM2CM

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

PM2CM, Inc., (Project Management to Construction Management) is a professional services company dedicated to providing Program and Project Management, Construction Management, and Project Controls services during the design and construction phase of projects. Our core expertise is in Project Controls which includes Scheduling, Cost Controls, Document Management and Controls, Budget tracking and monitoring, Estimating, Risk Analysis, Claims avoidance and Mitigation, Change Management, and Earned Value Management.
Location: Downtown Los Angeles, CA
We are seeking a highly motivated Junior Project Controls Specialist - Scheduler to join our dynamic team. The Junior Scheduler will assist in developing, maintaining, and analyzing project schedules to support project management activities. This entry-level position is perfect for recent graduates or individuals looking to grow their careers in project controls and scheduling.
  • Assist in the creation and maintenance of project schedules using scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project).
  • Collaborate with project teams to gather information necessary for developing and updating schedules.
  • Help maintain documentation related to schedule changes and updates.
  • Support project controls functions by monitoring project timelines and milestones.
  • Participate in regular project meetings to provide updates on schedule status and potential impacts.
  • Assist in identifying scheduling risks and documenting any issues that may affect the project timeline.
  • Contribute to the preparation of schedule reports for project management and stakeholders.

Requirements
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • One (1) year of full-time paid professional experience responsible in Scheduling for an Owner or General Contractor, preferably on multiple educational facilities or public works projects.
  • Development and project management experience (internship or academic projects accepted).
  • Familiarity with scheduling software (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of basic project management principles.
  • Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Able to work collaboratively as part of a team.
  • Enthusiastic and willing to learn about project control functions.

Benefits
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management or related field required.
Employer pays 100% of the employee health insurance.
3% 401k match.
PM2CM logo

About PM2CM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Torrance, CA, US

Year founded

2014

View All PM2CM Jobs

Apply