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Entry Level Project Controls Jobs in Union City, NJ

This is not a traditional entry-level position. We are hiring the founding member of our Project Controls department -- someone who will begin by owning the work directly and ultimately help build ...

New

You'll need to have: * Entry-level experience or academic background in project controls, engineering, construction management, or a related field. * Familiarity with project tracking tools and ...

Scheduler

Ramsey, NJ · On-site

$59K/yr

Core Responsibilities Work Product Creation, Project Management, Coordination with Team Members Vertex is looking for an entry-level scheduler to join our Project Controls team, working on a variety ...

Core Responsibilities Work Product Creation, Project Management, Coordination with Team Members Vertex is looking for an entry-level scheduler to join our Project Controls team, working on a variety ...

... controls within the organization. To be successful you must be driven and well-organized, with ... This is an entry level role requiring the individual to have the aptitude to learn and to ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$67 - $101/hr

Assists with the work for specific projects to create and implement all aspects of a manufacturing ... Exempt Entry Level: Designed for external candidates within 2 years of completing their highest ...

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Entry Level Project Controls information

See Union City, NJ salary details

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$47

$72

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level project controls in Union City, NJ is $47.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.42 and $55.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 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?

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 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.

Are entry level project controls in demand?

Entry level project controls roles are in demand due to ongoing infrastructure, construction, and engineering projects that require cost, schedule, and risk management. Employers seek candidates with basic knowledge of project management tools like Primavera or MS Project and relevant certifications such as CAPM or PMP. Strong analytical skills and the ability to learn industry software increase job prospects in this field.

How do I get into entry level project controls?

To enter an entry-level project controls role, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field. Gaining skills in scheduling software like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project, along with understanding project documentation and cost tracking, is beneficial. Internships or related experience can also improve job prospects.

Is entry level project controls a good career?

Entry level project controls involves supporting project planning, scheduling, cost management, and data analysis, often using tools like Primavera or Microsoft Project. It offers opportunities for career growth in industries such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing, with a demand for strong organizational and communication skills. Many professionals advance to senior project controls roles or project management positions with experience and additional certifications.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Controls job openings in Union City, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,654 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Project Controls Engineer

Archinect

Great Neck, NY • On-site

$62 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Project Controls Engineer (Cost & Schedule) First Dunes | Great Neck, NY | Hybrid Field & Office Role About First Dunes

First Dunes is a luxury construction management firm specializing in high-end residential and coastal projects across Long Island. We manage complex projects from concept through completion and are actively building the internal systems and infrastructure to support our growth.

This is not a traditional entry-level position. We are hiring the founding member of our Project Controls department — someone who will begin by owning the work directly and ultimately help build and manage the team beneath them.

Position Overview

Title: Project Controls Engineer — Cost & Schedule Location: Great Neck, NY (Hybrid)

  • 2–3 days/week in office
  • 2–3 days/week visiting active job sites across Long Island

Type: Full-Time

This role sits at the intersection of construction operations, financial tracking, and project reporting. You will work closely with project managers, ownership, clients, and lenders to maintain accurate visibility into project costs, schedules, and field progress.

Your responsibility is to understand — at all times — what work has been completed, what remains, how the schedule is tracking, and what it all costs.

Responsibilities Field Responsibilities
  • Visit active job sites weekly to quantify work completed by trade and scope
  • Verify material deliveries and labor progress against project schedules
  • Document field progress through photos, notes, and percent‑complete reporting
  • Identify schedule risks and cost variances in real time and communicate them to the PM team
Office Responsibilities
  • Maintain and update project budgets, schedules, and cost tracking systems
  • Produce weekly progress reports for project managers, clients, and lenders
  • Track purchase orders, subcontractor billings, and material orders
  • Assist with client and lender draw requests and progress billing
  • Review vendor invoices against verified field progress
  • Maintain vendor compliance documentation (insurance, contracts, licenses)
  • Build and maintain cost databases across multiple active projects
Department Development
  • Document and improve internal processes as the department grows
  • Help identify opportunities for offshore coordination and operational support
  • Participate in future hiring and team development
  • Grow into management responsibilities overseeing cost engineers and coordinators
Qualifications Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred
  • Recent graduates and early-career professionals (0–3 years experience) are encouraged to apply
What We’re Looking For
  • Strong analytical and organizational skills
  • Comfortable working both in the field and in an office environment
  • Ability to understand construction drawings, schedules, and building systems
  • Strong written communication and reporting abilities
  • High attention to detail and follow‑through
  • Interest in long‑term career growth and operational leadership
Preferred Qualifications
  • Internship or coursework in construction management, estimating, or project controls
  • Familiarity with Buildertrend, Procore, PlanGrid, or similar software
  • Exposure to AIA billing, lender draw schedules, or construction reporting
  • Interest in AI tools, automation, and operational systems
  • Long Island‑based or willing to relocate
Compensation & GrowthCareer Path & Salary Range
  • Project Controls Engineer: $62,000–$68,000
  • Senior Cost Engineer (Year 2): $72,000–$82,000
  • Director, Project Controls (Years 3–4): $90,000–$110,000
  • VP, Estimating & Project Controls (Future Growth): Compensation and equity discussion based on performance
Additional Benefits
  • Mileage reimbursement for field visits
  • Direct mentorship from ownership and executive leadership
  • Clear advancement path into department leadership
  • Professional development support (AIA, LEED, certifications, etc.)
Why This Role Is Different

Most companies hire into an existing department. At First Dunes, you will help build the Project Controls function from the ground up.

This role offers significant ownership, visibility, and long‑term growth potential for someone who wants more than a traditional architecture or construction support position.

We are also actively developing AI‑assisted operational systems for scheduling, cost tracking, reporting, and field documentation. This role will be directly involved in shaping how those systems integrate into the future of construction management.

If you want to help build a modern construction company — not just work inside one — we want to hear from you.

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