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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automationtechies

Senior Controls Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Mentor and train junior controls engineers and automation specialists. Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a ...

Automationtechies

Sr. Control Engineer

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Mentor junior controls engineers and provide technical leadership. * Support continuous improvement initiatives and evaluate emerging automation technologies. * Ensure compliance with applicable ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Rochester, MI

$76K - $99K/yr

Collaborate closely with engineering teams and mentor junior controls engineers in best practices for controls and automation. * Travel to customer facilities to perform installation, commissioning ...

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Sparks, NV · On-site +1

$83K - $108K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$79K - $103K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Automationtechies

Sr. Control Engineer

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Mentor junior controls engineers and provide technical leadership. * Support continuous improvement initiatives and evaluate emerging automation technologies. * Ensure compliance with applicable ...

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Switch, Inc.

Controls Engineer III

Reno, NV · On-site +1

$83K - $107K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What Were Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Manus Bio

Senior Process Controls Engineer

Augusta, GA · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

The Senior Process Controls Engineer mentors junior controls engineers and technicians, leads complex troubleshooting efforts, and partners cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality ...

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Atlanta, GA · On-site +1

$81K - $105K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Cummins

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

Coach and mentor junior Controls Engineers, strengthening team capability, technical rigor, and long-term engineering excellence. Cummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide ...

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Reno, NV · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$81K - $105K/yr

Provide technical guidance to junior Controls Engineers. What We're Looking For * You work independently on complex technical assignments. * You make sound decisions in high-pressure environments.

PEAK Technical Services Inc.

Controls Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$95 - $145/hr

Mentor and train junior controls engineers * Manage the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence mitigation projects. * Interface with external system ...

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Junior Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$33.5K

$71.8K

$109.5K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in the United States is $71,799.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $80,000.00 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.
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Junior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in the United States 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 $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Junior Controls Engineer on-site

Ground Effects Ltd

Westland, MI • On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

This role collaborates with Robotics, Process engineering groups and other team members to design controls systems to project specifications while mentoring and training entry level PLC Specialists.
  • Directly responsible for all aspects of PLC and HMI software design and development
  • Work with cross functional groups to ensure projects are completed on schedule
  • Create proposals, develop scope, costs, and initial design

1. Take lead in designing, sizing and selection of electrical equipment and controls systems for projects in accordance with project specifications and budget
  • Produce and maintain project drawings and documents including, electrical and controls schematics, control panel layout, PLC I/O layout, operation and maintenance manuals
  • Develop necessary controls documentation and programming for projects including PLC and HMI programs and sequence of operations
  • Coordinate all electrical and instrumentation design and scope requirements with vendors and internal project managers
  • Create network design for automated cell controls Ethernet I/P, DeviceNet, Profibus etc.

2. Utilize new and developing technologies to drive continuous improvement through the organization to improve operational efficiencies in key areas of production. Working towards to goal of a fully automated Spray on Bedliner process
  • Implementation of a usable MES system to improve visibility of production from material usage to labor efficiency
  • Develop an internal training structure and course for employees
  • Work with existing vendors to improve current system functionality

3. Support Production and startup activities of new equipment launches or updates at all GFX LTD/LLC sites
  • Develop comprehensive equipment testing procedures
  • Create and track start up and commissioning plan for plant use during initial implementation
  • Document and follow equipment orders for new projects
  • Resolve all internal or customer complaints related to projects in a timely and cost-effective manner
  • Create recommended spare parts and critical spare parts lists
  • Ensure equipment is running at optimal efficiency

4. Provide continuing technical support with commissioning and validation of equipment system operation at Ground Effects sites
  • Familiar with remote network access systems
  • Able to travel throughout North America to plant site where equipment is installed
  • Ability to establish remote access to ensure prompt response times to reduce downtime to minimum

5. Ensure the Automation process is functional, well maintained and efficiently designed
  • Per the IATF16949 requirements, assist with ensuring that the production floor is equipped with proper functioning automation processes and other program designs.
  • Provide continuous review of departmental processes to improve overall efficiencies

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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