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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

PLC Controls Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$85 - $94.48/hr

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians when required. Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering , Controls Engineering, Mechatronics ...

Mentor junior controls engineers and controls technicians * Support after-hours troubleshooting when necessary This is a role where your expertise drives real-world results--bringing complex ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams * Support on-site commissioning ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, Chemical, or related field) * 8+ years of ...

Be Seen First

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians when required. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics ...

Automation and Controls Specialist

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$81K - $107K/yr

Preparing Preliminary Engineering Reports (PERs) and Preliminary Design Reports (PDRs) for proposed ... Reviews the work of junior staff as necessary. * Performing other duties as required. #LI-LP2 #LI ...

Automation and Controls Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Preparing Preliminary Engineering Reports (PERs) and Preliminary Design Reports (PDRs) for proposed ... Reviews the work of junior staff as necessary. * Performing other duties as required. #LI-LP2 #LI ...

Control Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and traveling to customer sites for startup and troubleshooting activities. Reasons you will be excited to ...

Control Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and traveling to customer sites for startup and troubleshooting activities. Reasons you will be excited to ...

O&M Controls Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$29.25 - $38.50/hr

Experience programming or configuring PLCs, DDC controllers, and variable frequency drives ... Experience mentoring junior technicians in a field service or controls environment. Why Join Us You ...

O&M Controls Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$32.65 - $48.99/hr

Experience programming or configuring PLCs, DDC controllers, and variable frequency drives ... Experience mentoring junior technicians in a field service or controls environment. Why Join Us You ...

O&M Controls Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$29.25 - $38.50/hr

Experience programming or configuring PLCs, DDC controllers, and variable frequency drives ... Experience mentoring junior technicians in a field service or controls environment. Why Join Us You ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Mentor junior engineers What you bring: * Bachelor''s degree in Electrical Engineering or related ... AutoCAD Electrical, Visio, PLC/industrial controls, or EMI/EMC experience is a plus If this matches ...

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

Lead Substation Engineer 1 - Grid

Cary, NC · Hybrid

$104K - $137K/yr

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Controls Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$32.6K

$69.8K

$106.4K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in Raleigh, NC is $69,795.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $77,800.00 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

PLC Controls Engineer

Lancesoft

Durham, NC • On-site

$85 - $94.48/hr

Temporary

Posted 5 days ago


Job description


Title: PLC Controls Engineer
Duration: Aug 6, 2026 Aug 5, 2027
Location: Durham, NC 27703
Schedule: 1st shift
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Must Have
  • PLC Development - Autocad - Beckhoff - Structured Text

Description
Position Summary
  • We are seeking a highly motivated PLC Controls Engineer with 5+ years of industrial automation and PLC programming experience.
  • The successful candidate will be responsible for the design, development, troubleshooting, and enhancement of control systems, electrical hardware, and electromechanical equipment throughout the product lifecycle.
  • This role requires strong technical expertise, independent decision-making, and the ability to collaborate across multiple disciplines to solve complex engineering challenges.
  • The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in PLC software development using Beckhoff TwinCAT, Structured Text programming (IEC 61131-3), control panel design, system integration, hardware troubleshooting, and machine automation.
  • Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN is highly desirable.
  • This position offers the opportunity to work on advanced automation systems in a collaborative engineering environment. Depending on performance and business needs, this position is expected to transition into a permanent full-time role.

Primary Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, commission, and maintain PLC software using Beckhoff TwinCAT.
  • Develop control algorithms and machine sequences using Structured Text (ST) programming.
  • Integrate PLCs with HMIs, motion control systems, safety systems, sensors, and industrial networks.
  • Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and software-related issues in laboratory and production environments.
  • Support system commissioning, startup activities, validation, and field troubleshooting.
  • Develop and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering documentation.
  • Design and review control panels, power distribution systems, and electrical assemblies.
  • Collaborate with Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, Manufacturing, and Software Engineering teams.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for field and production issues.
  • Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and product lifecycle activities.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to machine performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians when required.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience developing PLC-based control systems.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience using Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC development environment.
  • Strong proficiency in Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming.
  • Experience commissioning and debugging industrial automation equipment.
  • Strong experience with:
    • PLC software development and troubleshooting
    • Beckhoff hardware and EtherCAT-based systems
    • Motion control and servo drive integration
    • Control panel design
    • Power distribution and industrial electrical systems
    • Hardware integration and system testing
    • Product troubleshooting and root cause analysis
  • Experience creating, reviewing, and maintaining engineering documentation and technical specifications.
  • Strong understanding of design verification, validation, and product lifecycle processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to prioritize work, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN.
  • Experience with machine safety systems and safety PLCs.
  • Experience integrating:
    • Servo motors and motion control systems
    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Vision systems
    • Industrial robotics
    • Barcode/RFID systems
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols including:
    • EtherCAT
    • Ethernet/IP
    • Modbus TCP
    • OPC-UA
  • Experience supporting manufacturing, automation, medical device, pharmaceutical, or highly regulated industries.
  • Knowledge of UL508A, NFPA 79, Client, and other relevant industrial controls standards.
  • Experience validating automated equipment and supporting qualification activities.

Key Competencies
  • PLC Programming (Beckhoff TwinCAT)
  • Structured Text Development
  • Control System Architecture
  • Industrial Automation
  • Motion Control
  • Electrical Design
  • System Integration
  • Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis
  • Technical Documentation
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration

Meet Your Recruiter
Mirza Ayyaz

LanceSoft logo

About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

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