ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Junior Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 Hills, 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.

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

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.

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

$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.

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.

Switch

Controls Engineer III

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $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

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.

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 ...

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 ...

Quanta Services

Senior Controls Engineer

Dallas, TX

$96K - $126K/yr

Experience mentoring junior controls engineers or technicians * Competitive base salary commensurate with experience * 401(k) plan with company match * Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsManufacturing JobsElectronics JobsJunior Controls Engineer Jobs

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 29, 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.
More about Junior Controls Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

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

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Junior Controls Engineer jobs include:

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

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

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 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,799 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Sr. Control Engineer

Automationtechies

Waukesha, WI • On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Senior Controls Engineer – Packaging Automation

Design Custom Automation. Lead Innovation. Build the Future.

If you're passionate about automation, PLC programming, and designing machines that solve real-world manufacturing challenges, this is an opportunity to make an impact.

Our client is a growing leader in custom packaging automation, designing innovative equipment for manufacturers across multiple industries. As a Senior Controls Engineer, you'll lead the design, development, programming, and commissioning of advanced control systems while collaborating with talented engineering, manufacturing, and project teams. You'll also mentor junior engineers and help shape the next generation of automation solutions.

If you enjoy solving complex technical problems, bringing machines to life, and seeing your designs operate on the production floor, we'd like to hear from you.

What You'll Do

  • Design, develop, and implement PLC and HMI control systems for custom automated machinery.
  • Develop control strategies that meet customer and project requirements.
  • Program PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control devices using industry-standard programming languages.
  • Test, commission, troubleshoot, and optimize automation systems.
  • Integrate hardware and software components for reliable machine operation.
  • Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, assembly, and project teams throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Mentor junior controls engineers and provide technical leadership.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and evaluate emerging automation technologies.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable safety and regulatory standards.

 

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of controls engineering experience in industrial automation or manufacturing.
  • Strong PLC programming experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms.
  • Experience developing HMI applications.
  • Solid understanding of PID control, motion control, and machine automation.
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, or similar.
  • Hands-on experience integrating and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and mentoring skills.
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA, ANSI, UL508A, or related electrical standards.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% throughout the U.S. and Canada.

 

Why You'll Want This Opportunity

  • Design cutting-edge custom automation equipment.
  • Work on challenging, high-visibility engineering projects from concept through commissioning.
  • Collaborate with experienced engineers in a highly innovative environment.
  • Lead technical projects while mentoring the next generation of engineers.
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits beginning on your first day.
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plan with company match, and generous paid time off.
  • Career growth with an organization that values innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.

If you're ready to build innovative automation systems, solve challenging engineering problems, and advance your controls engineering career, apply today. We'd love to speak with experienced engineers who are ready to make an immediate impact.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. Hiring company is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.