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Entry Level Project Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Thermal Structures

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Project Engineer - Composites

Corona, CA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

This entry-level role develops foundational knowledge of composite materials, fabrication processes ... controls, standard work, and best practices • Lead troubleshooting of complex composite ...

VOLT

Entry Level Supplier Quality Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40/hr

... projects. * Participates in supplier quality improvement initiatives; works with suppliers to ... Ensures the reliability and quality of suppliers, implementing process controls, certification ...

Jax Mechanical

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Commercial Boiler & HVAC/R Service Technician

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

... Entry-Level and Experienced Commercial Boiler & HVAC/R Service Technicians to join our growing team ... valves, controls, and equipment replacement projects. * Conduct combustion analysis, startup ...

Johnson Service Group

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Entry Level Facilities Technician

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $31.25/hr

... controls, and related equipment * Respond to work order requests in a timely and efficient manner ... Partner with Operations, EH&S, and administrative teams to plan and schedule facility projects

Horiba Instruments

Accountant II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

... projects, filings and accounting treatments. • Develop financial system improvements/ upgrades/ controls. • Evaluate process deficiencies, formulate corrective action plans, and develop process ...

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All 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 Jun 9, 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.

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.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,985 per year, or $43.3 per hour.
Engineering Intern I (Post Graduate)

Engineering Intern I (Post Graduate)

Nor-Cal Controls ES, Inc.

El Dorado Hills, CA

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to start your engineering career?
Nor-Cal Controlsprovides controls solutions for utility-scale renewable energy power plants and we are looking forEngineering Interns to begin their engineering journey with us! This is a full-time* role that serves as a training program to develop entry-level candidates into automation engineers using a goal-specific growth path and dedicated mentorship. You will initially be responsible for assisting the engineering team with SCADA project-related tasks of introductory scope and complexity. This role reports to our offices in El Dorado Hills, CA.


Why Join Us?

  • A workplace culture that celebrates collaboration, teamwork, and inclusivity.
  • 401(K) retirement savings with company matched funds.
  • Gold-level medical benefits with employee-only premiums paid at 100%.
  • We're a lot of fun! Company activities, social Fridays, and more!


What will a successful Engineering Intern I accomplish in the first 6 - 12 months?

  • Assist building a full SCADA points list, IP list, and FAT/SAT document.
  • Assist building Ignition or Cimplicity HMI screens for a SCADA Project.
  • Complete assembly of communication devices.
  • Consistently meet Nor-Cal's Core Values.


Minimum required experience:

  • Engineering B.S. degree (Automation, Controls, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or similar) experience OR soon to be engineering graduate (spring 2026).
  • Practical or academic exposure to control systems engineering, PLC programming, and/or SCADA development.
  • Strong interest in pursuing a career in automation/controls engineering with utility-scale, renewable energy power generation.

*Full time is defined as M-F, 8 hours a day, 40 hours per week.


From humble beginnings, Nor-Cal Controls ES, LLC.(located in El Dorado Hills, CA) has grown over the past 20 years to be the leading controls provider and systems integrator for renewable energies in the United States. Nor-Cal has led by adhering to our core values of Family, Dependability, Hard Work, Trust, and Knowledge. Our philosophy is simple: we take care of our clients by taking care of our employees. In addition to competitive compensation, excellent benefits, and flexible work options, we pride ourselves on having a healthy work environment that promotes diversity, collaboration, and professional growth.

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