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Entry Level Project Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Commercial Manager Specialist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

A minimum of 3 years' experience in Architecture/ Engineering, Design-Build, P3, project management, or project controls environment * Entry level positions are possible with a bachelor's degree in ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

Sonoma, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

Alameda, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

Hayward, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

San Mateo, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

EcoCosm, Inc.

Assistant Project Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

... We are seeking an entry-level Assistant Project Manager who is ready to take on big ... Coordinate trade subcontractors (lighting, mechanical/HVAC, and controls/BAS) from bid evaluation ...

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical, building system, architecture, etc., from the conceptual stages to design completion, and throughout ...

LHH US

Entry Level Accounting Clerk

Corona, CA

$19 - $23/hr

Support various accounting and administrative projects as assigned Qualifications * High school ... Understanding of basic accounting principles and internal controls Pay Details: $19.00 to $23.00 ...

Apply Early

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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 30, 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?

Project control is a valuable career in industries like construction and engineering, focusing on planning, scheduling, cost management, and risk analysis. It often requires skills in project management tools and certifications such as PMP or CCP, and offers opportunities for advancement into project management roles.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Entry-level project controls roles typically do not pay $10,000 a month without experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level often require specialized skills, certifications, or experience in fields like sales, real estate, or certain trades, but generally not at entry level without a degree. Most high-earning positions involve significant expertise or industry-specific knowledge.

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.

How to get into entry-level project management?

To enter an entry-level project controls role, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in fields like engineering, construction, or business. Gaining skills in project management software such as Primavera or MS Project, along with understanding scheduling, budgeting, and risk management, is beneficial. Internships or certifications like CAPM can also improve job prospects.

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 I get into project control?

To enter project controls as an entry-level professional, gaining a background in project management, scheduling, or cost estimation through a relevant degree or certification such as PMP or Primavera P6 is helpful. Developing skills in data analysis, scheduling software, and understanding project lifecycle processes can improve job prospects. Internships or entry-level positions in construction, engineering, or related fields also provide valuable 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,985 per year, or $43.3 per hour.
Commercial Manager Specialist

Commercial Manager Specialist

HDR

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in preparing weekly and monthly reports, document production, and drafting contracts as delegated by senior staff.

  • Support contract management activities including monitoring compliance, preparing subcontracts, processing change orders, and assisting with contract close-out.

  • Support project accounting, document control, dispute resolution, and scheduling activities as assigned.

HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 357 rated engineering

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world. 

The Commercial Manager Specialist is responsible for the completion of tasks as delegated by the Senior Commercial Manager, Commercial Manager, or Project Manager

  • Assists in preparing weekly and monthly reports as required
  • Assists in document production and transmission
  • Assists in drafting contracts
  • Assists in data analysis and tracking
  • Assists in project startup, execution, and close out documentation development, storage and communication
  • Other tasks as assigned
  • Up to 10% travel may be required depending on the needs of the projects


Specific duties include, but are not limited to the following;
Contract Management
1. Monitoring Compliance
2. Assist in Preparing Subcontracts
3. Assist in Processing Contract Change Orders
4. Assist in Contract Close-Out
Risk Management
1. Circulate Risk Register for Updates
2. Participate in Monthly Project Reviews 
Document Control
1. Verify Compliance
2. Assist with Onboarding Team Members
Dispute Resolution  
1. Assist with Monitoring Claims Issues
2. Review Supporting Documents for Impacts on Firm Fixed Fee Consultants or Subcontractor Infractions  
Project Accounting
1. Support Internal and External Invoicing
2. Review Reimbursable Expenses
Scheduling
      1. Coordinate with Project Controls Manager on Schedule 
           Issues/Impacts
      2. Attend Schedule Report Outs and Assist with
           Identification of Design Team Risks
      3. Assist with Schedule Adjustments for Change Orders

#LI-JF1

Keywords: Commercial Manager Specialist, commercial management, commercial manager

Preferred Qualifications
  • Design build experience 
  • Ability to do low code programming is a plus (e.g. QuickBase)
  • Experience in claims which may include claims defense, claim production, claim negotiation/resolution, and claim prevention
  • Experience and/or working knowledge of negotiation of contracts for architecture/engineering projects
Required Qualifications
  • A minimum of 3 years' experience in Architecture/ Engineering, Design-Build, P3, project management, or project controls environment
  • Entry level positions are possible with a bachelor's degree in architecture, business, law or equivalent
  • Ability to work well in a high performing team structure in a fast-paced environment
  • Self-starter; good communication and people skills
  • Must be committed to quality and improvement and promoting HDR's values

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917

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