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No Experience Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Serpapkg

Electrical Controls Engineer

Visalia, CA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Strong experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs (hardware and software).* PLC and HMI ... There's no monopoly on innovative ideas or limits to how far you can advance with our team. We ...

Promachbuilt

Electrical Controls Engineer

Visalia, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

Strong experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs (hardware and software). * PLC and HMI ... There's no monopoly on innovative ideas or limits to how far you can advance with our team. We ...

Amtec Direct Hire

Be Seen First

Senior Controls Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

The Senior Systems Controls Engineer will have a proven background in automation control ... SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This job has no supervisory responsibilities. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Belcan

Contract Controls Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$60 - $71.87/hr

Contract Controls Engineer Location: Santa Cruz, CA Zip Code: 95060 Start Date: Right Away Job Type ... Hands-on experience with Ignition and Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLC platforms. * Ability to program ...

Pro Mach, Inc.

Electrical Controls Engineer

Visalia, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Strong experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs (hardware and software). * PLC and HMI ... There's no monopoly on innovative ideas or limits to how far you can advance with our team. We ...

Belcan

Contract Controls Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$60 - $71.87/hr

Contract Controls Engineer Location: ​​Santa Cruz, CA Zip Code: 95060 Start Date: Right Away ... Hands-on experience with Ignition and Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLC platforms. * Ability to program ...

Dexterity

Controls Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong mechatronics fundamentals, hands-on controls experience, and a ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related ...

Mind Robotics

Controls Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

We're looking for a Controls Engineer to own the algorithms and software that make our robots move ... Demonstrated experience (through work, research, or projects) designing and deploying control ...

Dexterity

Controls Engineer

Redwood City, CA

$150K - $190K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong mechatronics fundamentals, hands-on controls experience, and a ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$97K - $128K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$134K - $178K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$134K - $178K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

BNH

Electrical Controls Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$134K - $178K/yr

Minimum of 2 years of progressive and relevant experience in engineering or a related technical ... controls engineering * Educational concentration and/or work experience in low, medium, or high ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsNo Experience Controls Engineer JobsNo Experience Controls Engineer Jobs in California

No Experience Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do no experience controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for no experience controls engineer in California is $95,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a no experience controls engineer?

A No Experience Controls Engineer job is an entry-level position designed for recent graduates or career changers with little to no direct experience in controls engineering. These roles typically involve assisting with the design, programming, testing, and troubleshooting of automation systems, PLCs, and control circuits under the guidance of senior engineers. Employers often provide training, mentorship, and hands-on projects to help new engineers develop their technical skills. Key responsibilities may include reading electrical schematics, writing basic control code, and supporting system integration efforts. Strong problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn, and a foundational understanding of electrical and mechanical systems are important for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a no experience controls engineer?

To thrive as a No Experience Controls Engineer, you typically need a basic understanding of engineering principles, a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or a related engineering field, and foundational knowledge of automation systems. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and basic troubleshooting tools is valuable, while introductory certifications such as Siemens or Allen Bradley PLC training can be beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help set you apart in entry-level environments. These competencies are crucial for adapting to rapidly evolving automation technologies and collaborating on multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by no experience controls engineers and how can you overcome them?

No Experience Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex automation systems, quickly mastering new software, and adapting to changing project requirements. As a newcomer, you might also find troubleshooting and diagnosing unfamiliar control issues to be daunting at first. Overcoming these hurdles typically involves asking questions, seeking mentorship from senior engineers, and taking advantage of on-the-job training or online resources. Embracing a proactive learning mindset and collaborating closely with more experienced team members can help you build confidence and technical proficiency in your first year.

How to become a no experience controls engineer?

To become a controls engineer with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge in electrical or mechanical engineering through a relevant degree or training program. Learning control systems, PLC programming, and automation tools such as Siemens or Allen-Bradley is essential, and internships or entry-level positions can provide practical experience to develop skills in the field.

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

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to No Experience Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For No Experience Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching No Experience Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for No Experience Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for No Experience Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most No Experience Controls Engineer job openings:

No Experience Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various No Experience Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Contract, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Contract Controls Engineer

Belcan Corporation

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$83 - $99/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Title: Contract Controls Engineer

Location: Santa Cruz, CA

Zip Code: 95060

Start Date: Right Away

Job Type: Contract

Pay Rate: $60 - $71.87/hr.

We provide a competitive pay and benefits package. This position is offering a pay range of $60 - $71.87/hr. however, Belcan considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to education, experience, geographic location, and discipline. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law.

Position Summary

An advanced aerospace manufacturing team is seeking a hands‑on Contract Controls Engineer to support the design, integration, modification, and commissioning of production and R&D equipment. The engineer will work primarily with thermal‑process equipment such as autoclaves, ovens, and related systems that require precise heating and controlled cooling. The role combines controls programming, HMI/SCADA development, electrical design, panel work, troubleshooting, and cross‑functional collaboration in a fast‑moving project environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell platforms.
  • Build and maintain Ignition applications, with emphasis on Perspective and Edge.
  • Create control solutions from scratch when required and adapt proven components from existing systems when appropriate.
  • Design electrical control panels, develop schematics, select components, and support panel build and field installation activities.
  • Integrate new production and R&D equipment into established Rockwell and Ignition architectures.
  • Support equipment commissioning, debugging, process optimization, and production-readiness activities.
  • Integrate machine-safety devices and controls in accordance with applicable requirements and safe engineering practices.
  • Collaborate closely with controls engineers, equipment engineers, technicians, and manufacturing stakeholders across multiple California sites.
Core Qualifications
  • Practical controls or automation engineering experience in manufacturing, industrial equipment, or process automation.
  • Hands‑on experience with Ignition and Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLC platforms.
  • Ability to program, configure, or architect a control system from the ground up.
  • Experience with control‑panel design, electrical schematics, component selection, and panel build or installation support.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills across PLC logic, instrumentation, electrical systems, HMI/SCADA, and connected equipment.
  • Ability to work onsite at least 50% of the time and support projects in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Marina.
  • Collaborative, adaptable working style suited to a small, close‑knit engineering team and rapidly changing project priorities.
Preferred Experience
  • Ignition Perspective and Edge development experience.
  • Beckhoff PLCs and TwinCAT; FactoryTalk or related Rockwell software.
  • Autoclaves, ovens, furnaces, thermal‑processing equipment, or other temperature‑controlled process systems.
  • FANUC robotics, industrial safety systems, commissioning, or equipment integration.
  • Experience from aerospace, automotive, food processing, pharmaceutical, HVAC, or another process‑equipment environment.
Education

A degree in electrical engineering, controls, automation, mechatronics, or a related discipline is helpful but not required. Equivalent hands‑on experience and demonstrated technical capability will be considered.

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About Belcan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Belcan is a leading provider of qualified personnel to many of the world's most respected enterprises. We offer excellent opportunities for contract/temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct assignments in the engineering, IT, and professional fields. We are the employer of choice for thousands worldwide. Our overriding goal is to provide quality staffing solutions that help people, organizations, and communities succeed.

Industry

It services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1958

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