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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Learn basic controls programming and troubleshoot PLCs and VFDs. * Troubleshoot and analyze root ... Provide training and guidance to junior maintenance staff. * Clean and assist with upkeep of ...

Learn basic controls programming and troubleshoot PLCs and VFDs. * Troubleshoot and analyze root ... Provide training and guidance to junior maintenance staff. * Clean and assist with upkeep of ...

Mentor junior team members and help build a strong data management culture * Partner with ... engineering teams to define scalable integration and distribution patterns for reference data ...

Mentor junior team members and help build a strong data management culture * Partner with ... engineering teams to define scalable integration and distribution patterns for reference data ...

Mentor junior team members and help build a strong data management culture * Partner with ... engineering teams to define scalable integration and distribution patterns for reference data ...

Plant Maintenance Mechanic - Night Shift

Florence, KY · On-site

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

... controls, and components to identify hazards, defects and need for adjustments/repairs/programing ... and junior maintenance techs as needed. Respond to equipment break downs in a timely manner to ...

Electrician

Paducah, KY · On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

Working hands on with training of chief and junior engineers Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and ... A high level of knowledge of PLCs, AC and DC controls and systems is required. Required Education ...

Electrician

Paducah, KY · On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

Working hands on with training of chief and junior engineers Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and ... A high level of knowledge of PLCs, AC and DC controls and systems is required. Required Education ...

Panel Tech II

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Provide knowledge of layout design and wiring to junior panel builders, communicate effectively ... Perform point to point wiring of, including but not limited to, relays, controls, PLCs, I/O Modules ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Controls Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$29.1K

$62.4K

$95.1K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in Kentucky is $62,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $69,500.00 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky? For Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,360 per year, or $30 per hour.

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer (3786)

Navarro Inc.

Paducah, KY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Navarro Research and Engineering is recruiting for multiple junior and senior Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineering positions located in Oak Ridge, TN, Paducah, KY, and Portsmouth, OH.

Navarro is a premier contractor providing high-quality technical services to DOE, NASA, and DOD. Navarro's success is based on our customer service focus and our well-known responsiveness and innovation. In all we do, either in corporate management or in our services to our clients, we seek for the most effective and efficient approaches to provide best value to our clients.

Performs NCS Engineering job functions as assigned by management. Typical job responsibilities assist and support management in NCS program implementation and engineering system design; which may include duties or activities in one or more of the following functional areas, in addition to other duties as assigned:

  • Perform nuclear criticality safety reviews of existing and proposed nuclear material operations and facilities, facility designs and modifications; and research or processing activities involving fissionable materials.
  • Develop nuclear criticality safety evaluations and program documents that meet applicable NRC/DOE requirements and standards, utilizing nuclear criticality safety software (e.g., SCALE or MCNP) as needed, in support of safe nuclear material operations and maintenance activities.
  • Complete reviews of nuclear criticality safety evaluations and program documents to ensure technical accuracy and compliance with applicable NRC/DOE requirements and standards.
  • Perform tracking and trending of NCS performance.
  • Support NCS operability or engineering evaluations when necessary.
  • Support NCS program implementation and training.
  • Support the development of hazards analysis, accident analysis, and hazard controls and documents the results in a nuclear facility safety basis (i.e., documented safety analysis and technical safety requirements), as requested.
  • Perform NCS work in accordance with contractor or client program documents and procedures.
  • Maintain knowledge of and demonstrates ability to perform work safely in accordance with all approved safety policies, procedures and applicable regulations and performs assigned duties in a safe manner.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications :

  • BS/BA in Nuclear Engineering (or directly related field) and 3 years of related nuclear criticality safety experience. 
  • Understanding of pertinent nuclear criticality safety codes, governing regulations and industry practices. 
  • Demonstrated proficiency utilizing nuclear criticality safety software (e.g., SCALE or MCNP)
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills 
  • Must possess a DOE "L/Q" clearance or the ability to obtain a DOE "L/Q" Clearance

Due to the nature of the government contract requirements and/or clearances requirements, US citizenship is required.

Navarro is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.

EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability