1

Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Electrical and Controls Engineer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and designers; promote safety and quality. * Travel to client sites for ... You'll play a key role in shaping how electrical and controls systems are delivered across complex ...

Electrical and Controls Engineer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and designers; promote safety and quality. * Travel to client sites for ... You'll play a key role in shaping how electrical and controls systems are delivered across complex ...

Lead Fusion Controls Developer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$45.50 - $58.25/hr

Provide guidance to junior staff. * Collaborate within controls team and closely with engineering and physics teams to define control system requirements and prioritize development efforts across ...

Lead Fusion Controls Developer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$45.50 - $58.25/hr

Provide guidance to junior staff. * Collaborate within controls team and closely with engineering and physics teams to define control system requirements and prioritize development efforts across ...

Junior DevOps Engineer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$53.25 - $72.75/hr

Your Mission - As a Junior DevOps Engineer at Sprocket Security, your primary role is to help ... Implement and maintain infrastructure logging, security controls, and system health. * Administer ...

Junior DevOps Engineer

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$53.25 - $72.75/hr

Your Mission - As a Junior DevOps Engineer at Sprocket Security, your primary role is to help ... Implement and maintain infrastructure logging, security controls, and system health. * Administer ...

Electrical Engineer

Verona, WI ยท Hybrid

$75K - $110K/yr

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and team members. Qualifications ... Lighting Controls * Gas Detection Systems * Fire Alarm Systems * Lightning Protection Systems

next page

Showing results 1-20

Junior Controls Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$33.8K

$72.4K

$110.4K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in Madison, WI is $72,358.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $80,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How to become a junior controls engineer with no experience?

To become a junior controls engineer with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge in electrical or mechanical systems through relevant coursework or online training. Internships, entry-level technician roles, or certifications in PLC programming and control systems can help build practical skills and improve employability in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in Madison, WI 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 $72,358 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Electrical and Controls Engineer

Sharpe Engineering

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Sharpe Engineering & Equipment is seeking an experienced Electrical & Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, and integration of advanced automation and electrical systems for food & beverage processing projects. This senior technical role will drive electrical design excellence, support commissioning, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver safe, reliable, and high-performance solutions.

You’ll work closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, contractors, and integrators to ensure every system meets client expectations and Sharpe’s commitment to quality, innovation, and our Core Values: Integrity, Collaboration, Responsibility, Commitment to Stakeholders, and People-Centric Focus.

Key Responsibilities

    • Lead electrical design including schematics, panel layouts, power distribution, and motor control systems.
    • Develop and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA programming (Rockwell preferred).
    • Create control narratives, I/O lists, and functional descriptions.
    • Oversee contractors and integrators during installation, testing, and commissioning.
    • Collaborate with engineering teams to deliver fully integrated solutions.
    • Maintain electrical and controls standards; support continuous improvement initiatives.
    • Mentor junior engineers and designers; promote safety and quality.
    • Travel to client sites for installation support, commissioning, and field work (20–30%).

Why Join Sharpe?
At Sharpe, you’ll join a people-centric organization dedicated to collaboration, integrity, and technical excellence. You’ll play a key role in shaping how electrical and controls systems are delivered across complex capital projects, contributing directly to innovation and client success in the food & beverage industry.

You’ll join a people-centric organization built on collaboration, responsibility, and a commitment to doing what’s right for our clients and our team. Here, your leadership drives continuous improvement, supports innovation, and contributes to the long-term success of a growing company. If you’re motivated by making an impact, building strong partnerships, and leading projects that truly deliver value, Sharpe is the place to do your best work.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

    • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (required).
    • 7+ years of experience in industrial electrical engineering, automation, and controls integration.
    • Strong expertise with Rockwell Automation platforms (PLC/HMI/SCADA).
    • Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical and knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E, UL 508A, and related codes.
    • Experience coordinating contractors and executing field commissioning.
    • Strong communication, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
    • Valid U.S. driver’s license required; passport eligibility preferred.

Benefits

Sharpe Engineering offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance. Our benefits include paid time off (PTO) plus 10 paid holidays, a flexible work schedule, and medical, dental, and vision insurance. We also provide short-term and long-term disability coverage, as well as life insurance, helping ensure peace of mind for you and your family.

Sharpe Engineering & Equipment is an Equal Opportunity Employer.