Controls Engineer - Entry Level

Overview

Location: Columbia, SC (On-Site / Field)

Experience: 0–2 Years | New Graduates Welcome

Salary: $70k-$90k + Bonus

ABOUT THE ROLE

Applied Control Technologies is seeking a motivated entry-level Controls Engineer to join our growing team. This position is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to launch their career in industrial automation and controls system integration. You will work alongside experienced engineers on real-world projects across pulp & paper, chemical, and power generation facilities, gaining hands-on exposure to PLC programming, DCS configuration, and panel design from day one.

• Develop and modify PLC programs using Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 / RSLogix 5000 under senior engineer guidance
• Assist with Emerson DeltaV DCS configuration, including module configuration and logic checkout
• Support I/O list development, loop sheet creation, and instrumentation documentation
• Participate in factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT) at client facilities
• Assist with control panel wiring verification and field startup activities
• Work with project teams to develop HMI screens and alarm configurations
• Support project documentation including as-built drawings and O&M manuals
• Travel to client sites within the Columbia, SC region as required

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, or related field
• Basic understanding of ladder logic, or other programming languages
• Familiarity with electrical schematics and control system fundamentals (coursework is sufficient)
• Strong desire to learn industrial automation platforms — Rockwell and Emerson DeltaV experience a plus
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and P&IDs
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for client-facing work
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to industrial sites

• Any internship, co-op, or coursework exposure to PLCs, SCADA, or DCS platforms
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical or similar CAD tools
• Coursework or personal interest in process control, instrumentation, or industrial networking

• Competitive starting salary commensurate with education and experience
• Hands-on mentorship from senior engineers with decades of industrial automation expertise
• Exposure to diverse industries: pulp & paper, chemical processing, and power generation
• Career development path with increasing project responsibility over time