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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Motor Controls Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

$90K - $116K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Motor Controls Engineer II

San Diego, CA

$88K - $114K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Motor Controls Engineer II

San Jose, CA

$97K - $126K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Senior Thermal Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

Engineering Lead Primary Job Responsibilities: As a Sr. thermal control engineer, you will be ... junior team members. The ideal candidate works well within a diverse team while also being able to ...

Showing results 41-60

Junior Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$70.9K

$108.1K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in California is $70,859.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Controls Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering and a solid grasp of automation principles. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and CAD software, along with relevant certifications like Siemens or Rockwell, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable control systems and ensuring smooth operation in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by junior controls engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world industrial environments?

Junior Controls Engineers often find that real-world industrial environments present challenges not commonly encountered in academic settings, such as working with legacy systems, managing tight project deadlines, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Learning to troubleshoot hardware and software issues in live production environments can be daunting, especially when unexpected problems arise. Additionally, adapting to rigorous safety standards and documentation requirements is crucial. However, support from senior engineers and ongoing training typically help new hires navigate these challenges successfully.

What is a junior controls engineer?

Junior Controls Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshoot system issues, and ensure that automated systems are functioning correctly. Their role often involves hands-on work with electrical components and software, as well as collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Junior Controls Engineer vs Controls Technician?

AspectJunior Controls EngineerControls Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls EngineeringTechnical diploma or associate's degree in electrical or controls technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and troubleshooting of control systems, often in office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of control systems on-site in industrial environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and engineering firmsIndustrial plants, factories, and automation service providers

While both roles involve working with control systems, Junior Controls Engineers focus on design and development, whereas Controls Technicians primarily handle installation and maintenance. The roles often overlap in industry and credentials but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Junior Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,859 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Senior Controls Design Engineer

Next Level HVAC Energy Management Systems

La Habra, CA • On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Location: 1530 W. Whittier Blvd

Job Id:173

# of Openings:0

Next Level EMS is seeking a highly experienced Senior Controls Design Engineer to lead the engineering design and technical development of advanced Building Automation and HVAC control systems. This role is responsible for delivering complete, accurate, and cost-effective controls designs that align with contractual scope, budget, and performance objectives.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in DDC systems, HVAC operations, system integration, and project documentation. This individual will independently manage complex projects, mentor junior engineers, collaborate with Sales and Operations, and provide technical leadership throughout the lifecycle of each project—from estimation through commissioning.

Job Duties & Responsibilities
  • Design complete HVAC control systems in accordance with contract documents, salesestimates, and project scope.
  • Develop detailed and accurate sequences of operation aligned with mechanical design intent.
  • Interpret construction drawings, specifications, and project documentation to ensure technical accuracy and compliance.
  • Select appropriate control hardware, controllers, sensors, and integration components to achieve system functionality.
  • Produce complete Bills of Material (BOM) for each project.
  • Create detailed construction drawings indicating panel layouts, sensor locations, network architecture, and wiring requirements.
  • Generate and manage Requests for Information (RFIs) to resolve scope gaps or design conflicts.
  • Provide value engineering solutions that maintain performance while improving cost efficiency.
  • Lead integration design for HVAC systems and other building systems using open protocols such as BACnet.
  • Support commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities as needed.
  • Accurately forecast engineering labor hours and manage workload to remain within budget.
  • Support Sales during the estimation phase by providing design guidance and risk assessment.
  • Assist Operations and Project Management with technical direction during construction.
  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of internal engineering standards and design libraries.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers to improve technical capability and design consistency.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 6+ years of experience in HVAC controls or building automation system design.
  • Strong understanding of DDC systems and commercial HVAC operations.
  • Proven ability to independently design large, complex BAS projects.
  • Experience developing sequences of operation and system control strategies.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or Visio for control system drawings.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical plans, electrical diagrams, and specifications.
  • Experience developing complete Bills of Material (BOM).
  • Working knowledge of network architecture and system integration concepts.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field (experience may substitute for formal education).
  • Experience with BACnet system integration and multi-vendor equipment environments.
  • Field experience in installation, commissioning, or service of HVAC control systems.
  • Experience supporting both new construction and retrofit projects.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license is a plus.
Core Competencies
  • Advanced knowledge of HVAC system operation and control strategies.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Technical leadership and mentoring ability.
  • Clear and professional communication with internal and external stakeholders.
  • High level of organization and attention to detail.
  • Ability to anticipate project risk and proactively provide solutions.
Essential Functions
  • Beable tosit for an extended period of time
  • Be able to lift and carry ladders, drawings, personal computers, material,etc.
  • Be able to spend significant time standing and walking on constructionsites.
  • Be able to climb several flights of stairs or ladders throughout a typical day ona constructionsite.
  • Maintain a satisfactory driving record which, per Next Level’s vehicle policy, allows the individual to drive a companyvehicle.
  • Be physically able to kneel, stoop and crawl.
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