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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Controls Engineer

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for ... As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and ...

Controls Engineer II

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$88 - $132/hr

A Typical Day The Controls Engineer II, OT works under moderate supervision and is responsible for ... High School Diploma and 7 years experience or Associates Degree in related field and 5 years ...

A Typical Day The Controls Engineer II, OT works under moderate supervision and is responsible for ... High School Diploma and 7 years experience or Associates Degree in related field and 5 years ...

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

New

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of the Mission Critical data center team ... As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

Lead Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of the Mission Critical data center team ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of the Mission Critical data center team ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and ...

SCADA Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Position Description The SCADA Controls Engineer will work with the SCADA Engineering team and project managers. Responsible for integrating real-time Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and ...

Power Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Position Description The Power Controls Engineer will work with the SCADA Engineering team and project managers. Responsible for integrating real-time Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and ...

Power Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $115K/yr

Position Description The Power Controls Engineer will work with the SCADA Engineering team and project managers. Responsible for integrating real-time Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and ...

SCADA Controls Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $115K/yr

Position Description The SCADA Controls Engineer will work with the SCADA Engineering team and project managers. Responsible for integrating real-time Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and ...

As our Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, you'll be responsible for ensuring that our manufacturing ... Alternatively, five or more years of relevant experience coupled with an Associate's degree, or ten ...

As our Sr. Automation Controls Engineer, you'll be responsible for ensuring that our manufacturing ... Alternatively, five or more years of relevant experience coupled with an Associate's degree, or ten ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate 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 does an associate controls engineer do?

An Associate Controls Engineer assists in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. They work with senior engineers to implement automation solutions, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Their tasks often include programming controllers, testing system performance, and supporting the integration of new technologies. This role typically requires knowledge of electrical engineering, programming languages like PLC, and a strong attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate controls engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as AutoCAD or Rockwell Automation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and resolve technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient control solutions, ensuring system reliability, and driving project success in automated environments.

What are some common challenges faced by associate controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Associate Controls Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical jargon and have distinct priorities. Additionally, balancing project timelines while integrating control systems with hardware and software components can require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in cross-functional meetings can help Associate Controls Engineers bridge gaps and contribute effectively to project success.

What is the difference between Associate Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectAssociate Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in related engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting design, testing, and troubleshootingMore independent, leading projects, and system integration
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and industrial facilitiesSimilar industries, with increased responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Controls Engineers typically support and assist in projects, focusing on learning and executing tasks under supervision. Controls Engineers take on more independent roles, managing projects and system design. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Controls Engineers usually have more hands-on experience and leadership responsibilities.

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 Associate Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Associate Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

E Tech Group

Sonoma, CA • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

At E Tech Group, joining our team means joining a group of passionate and forward-thinkingexperts. We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing value for our clients through IT automation and control solutions for more than 25 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals, Material Handling, Consumer Products and Food & Beverage industries.Our national scale allows us to help our clients develop and implement standardized solutions at any of their facilities regardless of physical location or the local resources available at that site.  

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer  to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems projects. This includes defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, programming PLC and SCADA applications, configuring thin client server applications, configuring process-based historian databases, tuning control loops, providing control system startup and commissioning services, troubleshooting existing control systems and providing control system qualifications. This a fantastic opportunity to lead/work on projects from concept through commissioning phases.

You must be local to Sonoma, CA.

You Will:

  • Provide application/control systems design and development for systems of varying complexity
  • Develop and evaluate alternative system solutions that meet stated requirements
  • Modifies program/system logic involving multiple systems and subsystems
  • Develop proficiency in several programming languages and control device networks for PLCs, PCs
  • Interact with customers to gain an understanding of the business environment. Defines scope, plans, and deliverables for assigned work
  • Work successfully in a team environment; focused strongly on customer service and continuous improvement
  • Serve as an ambassador who embodies our Core Values, prioritizing the success of E Tech Group, our clients, and the professional development of our associates

You Have:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related Engineering fields.
  • 4+ years of experience, or equivalent combination of education 
  • Consulting experience
  • Proficiency in troubleshooting control systems and an understanding of process controls
  • Instrumentation experience
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ignition and PLC experience with products such as: ControlLogix, CompactLogix, PlantPAx, Factory Talk Software Suite, Studio 5000, PLC5, SLC500, RSView, PanelView Plus, etc.
  • Experience in food and beverage and winery controls engineering
  • Knowledge of S88 Batch standards and experience implementing batch systems
  • Control system validation experience of pharmaceutical/biotech systems a plus
  • Other PLC platform experience (GE, Siemens, Modicon)
  • Other SCADA and HMI package experience (Proficy and Wonderware)
  • Experience implementing detailed control system electrical design packages
  • Working knowledge of control system networks (Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, etc.
  • A DNA comprised of collaboration and teamwork

Benefits & Perks: 

  • 401k + match + prompt enrollment. E Tech Group employees are 100% vested upon entry. 
  • Prompt enrollment into Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits. 
  • Generous paid time off that includes paid vacation, paid holidays, paid family leave and sick time off. 
  • Learning and growth are key parts of the E Tech culture. We provide you with training and continuing education from day one, so you canadvance your career. As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities. 

 Salary: $90,000- $130,000

E Tech Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other basis prohibited by law.  E Tech Group will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious beliefs. E Tech Group is an Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.  

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