Project Controls Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Irvine, California$149,175 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Project Controls Engineer Jobs in Irvine

Looking for a Project Controls Engineer job in Irvine? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Project Controls Engineer in Irvine, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Irvine has a strong job market for Project Controls Engineers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Project Controls Engineer Salary in Irvine

Entry Level
$97,538
Median
$149,175
Senior Level
$211,140

Project Controls Engineer salaries in Irvine are 53% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.

Purchasing power in Irvine is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Cost ControlSchedule ManagementEarned ValuePrimavera P6Risk Analysis

Project Controls Engineer Job Market in Irvine

Irvine, CA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Project Controls Engineer professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Irvine offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Project Controls Engineer roles across various sectors. The market for Project Controls Engineer positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Project Controls Engineers in Irvine

UC IrvineCity of IrvineIrvine Company

Major employers hiring Project Controls Engineers in Irvine include UC Irvine, City of Irvine, Irvine Company. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine

Living in Irvine as a Project Controls Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (153% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month (44% above the national average of $1,800). At median Project Controls Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 21% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending.

153
Cost Index (100=avg)
$2.6K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Project Controls Engineer in Irvine

Irvine Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Project Controls Engineer professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Project Controls Engineer earning $149,175 might pay approximately $11,934 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Project Controls Engineers

The job outlook for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Irvine offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Cost Control, Schedule Management, Earned Value, Primavera P6.

Relocating to Irvine

Irvine has a very high cost of living. Many Project Controls Engineers negotiate relocation packages or sign-on bonuses to offset moving costs. California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Project Controls Engineer salary in Irvine, CA?

The average Project Controls Engineer salary in Irvine, CA is $149,175 per year. Entry-level Project Controls Engineers typically start around $97,538, while experienced professionals can earn $211,140 or more. The national average for Project Controls Engineer roles is $97,500.

How many Project Controls Engineer jobs are available in Irvine?

Irvine has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Project Controls Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Project Controls Engineers include UC Irvine, City of Irvine, Irvine Company. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Irvine a good city for Project Controls Engineers?

Irvine is an excellent choice for Project Controls Engineers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine?

Top skills for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine include Cost Control, Schedule Management, Earned Value, Primavera P6, Risk Analysis. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine?

Irvine's cost of living is significantly above the national average (153% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month. Purchasing power in Irvine is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Project Controls Engineers in Irvine?

Irvine Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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