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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110/hr

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.

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$110/hr

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.

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110/hr

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.

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA

$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, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

Trimark Associates, Inc

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 ...

Trimark Associates, Inc

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 ...

Avid Bioservices

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$121K - $152K/yr

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 ...

Avid Bioservices

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$121K - $152K/yr

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 ...

Avid Bioservices

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$121K - $152K/yr

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 ...

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing ... As an E Tech associate, youcan unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing ... As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Controls Engineer JobsAssociate Controls Engineer Jobs in California

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 Sep 10, 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 job categories do people searching Associate Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

Associate Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.

Associate Electrical Controls Engineer - EPLAN Designer

Modesto, CA • On-site

Factory Technologies, Inc.
Food Services and Drinking Places • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Factory Technologies, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Factory Technologies, Inc. (FTI), a Systems Integrator located in Modesto, CA, is seeking an Associate Electrical Controls Engineer - EPLAN Designer. This entry-level position is specially designed for recent engineering graduates and early-career professionals. No prior commercial CAD experience is required. However, familiarity with CAD software or previous drafting experience is a plus. We provide comprehensive, structured on-the-job training in electrical schematic design and the EPLAN environment. Recent graduates from a variety of engineering backgrounds, including mechanical engineering, are strongly encouraged to apply. Based in Modesto, CA, this office role includes panel shop collaboration and occasional local client site support.
Along with technical qualifications, as a member of the FTI team, you will be most successful when you embody our core non-technical traits and collaborative values:
  • Communication:
    • Strive for excellent oral, written, and active listening skills.
    • Proactively discuss task successes, failures, and roadblocks with your team.
    • Let the team know of unexpected changes to your schedule as soon as possible.
    • Provide clear, audience-appropriate updates on project progress.
    • Ask for and share respectful, constructive feedback.
  • Sharing/Collaboration:
    • Share your time, skills, and gather knowledge freely with colleagues.
    • Collaborate closely with senior engineers, interns, and shop floor panel wiremen, actively seeking mentorship and learning from their hands-on experience.
  • Focus:
    • Support others when needed and allow teammates to focus on their critical tasks.
  • Be Curious, Not Judgmental:
    • Ask thoughtful questions to uncover details and seek to understand the "why" behind engineering standards or redlines to become a better designer.
  • Adaptability/Flexibility:
    • Adapt and change directions routinely in a fast-paced, dynamic integration environment.
  • Problem Solving/Critical Thinking:
    • Apply critical thinking and collaborative efforts to solve technical and project challenges.
  • Repeatability/Scalability:
    • Standardize your work (e.g., building clean EPLAN macros, parts databases, and templates) so that designs can be easily reused and scaled.
  • Self-Awareness:
    • Understand your technical strengths and seek proactive growth in areas of development.
  • Empathy:
    • Put yourself in others' shoes before judging. We all make and find mistakes; treat others with respect.
    • Remember that shop wiremen must build what you design. Create clear, logical, and constructible schematics to make their jobs easier.
  • Active Listening:
    • Listen with the genuine intent to understand, not just to react or respond.
  • Resilience:
    • Maintain a positive mindset through temporary project difficulties and challenging days.
  • Take Care of Yourself:
    • Be your own gatekeeper and communicate your issues, goals, and needs to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
  • Participate:
    • Contribute actively to company improvements. Positive changes only happen with participation.
  • Time Management/Prioritization:
    • Manage daily priorities and communicate issues early, coming to the table with proposed solutions.

Associate Engineers are most successful in this role when they bring a solid academic foundation and an eagerness to learn on the job. FTI fully assumes and provides structured on-the-job training to help recent graduates succeed in EPLAN design and controls engineering.
  • Education: BS in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Electrical Engineering Technology (BSEET), Mechanical Engineering (BSME), Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a closely related discipline. We encourage recent graduates to apply!
  • On-the-Job Training: This role is designed with career development in mind. FTI provides full, guided training in electrical controls, panel design, and the EPLAN environment.
  • Software CAD Skills: Academic or internship exposure to database-driven CAD software (EPLAN Electric P8, AutoCAD Electrical, or SOLIDWORKS Electrical) is a significant plus but is not required.
  • Technical Foundation: Strong understanding of basic AC/DC circuit analysis, electrical components (relays, PLCs, VFDs, breakers, terminal blocks), and basic power distribution.
  • Standards Exposure: Familiarity or academic exposure to industrial codes and safety standards (such as UL 508A, NFPA 79, NFPA 70/NEC) is a plus (full training will be provided).
  • Hands-on Mindset: Ability to read and interpret mechanical layout drawings, P&IDs, flow diagrams, or existing electrical schematics.
  • General Skills: General knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Strong Microsoft Excel skills are beneficial for managing EPLAN parts databases.
  • Driver's License: Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean DMV record.

Key Responsibilities
Working closely with senior engineering mentors, the Associate Electrical Controls Engineer will develop proficiency in the following responsibilities:
  • Interpret Drawings: Review customer specifications, P&IDs, control narratives, and mechanical drawings to determine electrical and layout requirements.
  • EPLAN Schematic Design: Design detailed, multi-page electrical control schematics using EPLAN Electric P8, including low-voltage distribution, safety circuits, PLC hardware configurations, and I/O networks.
  • Enclosure Layouts: Calculate panel space requirements, sizing wire-ways, DIN rails, and component spacing to design optimized 2D/3D electrical enclosure layouts.
  • Database & Smart Design: Help build and maintain smart parts databases, manufacturer catalogs, device structures, and functional macros in the EPLAN platform to ensure standardization and reuse.
  • Automated Engineering Reports: Generate and validate critical project documentation, including Bills of Materials (BOMs), terminal strip diagrams, cable schedules, and point-to-point wire lists.
  • Continuous Improvement: Revise and troubleshoot legacy drawing packages based on testing feedback and manufacturing redlines from the assembly shop floor.
  • Collaborate with Shop Floor: Confer with shop supervisors and panel wiremen to clarify design drawings, review fabrication questions, and resolve assembly problems.
  • As-Built Redlines: Note and implement design deviations (redlines) during panel fabrication and testing, updating final EPLAN packages to reflect as-built conditions.
  • Engineering Calculations: Perform basic engineering calculations for thermal loads, circuit protection, and component sizing with mentorship support.
  • On-Site Commissioning: Assist senior engineers with field investigations, equipment startup, panel modifications, and commissioning at customer facilities.

Desired but not Required Experience
  • Familiarity with EPLAN Pro Panel for 3D cabinet design.
  • Hands-on experience with panel wiring, electrical assembly, or multimeter testing (such as a Control Panel Wireman background).

And finally...
  • The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary offer, including medical and dental benefits, 401K with company contributions, and vacation/holiday pay.
  • Onsite Requirement: This is an in-person, office-based role located at our Modesto, CA facility to facilitate daily collaboration with our design team and panel shop floor. This is not a remote or work-from-home position.

Apply