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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in San Rafael, CA

Systems Engineer II

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$82K - $125K/yr

This position will interact with Controls Engineers to allocate requirements and develop ... Provides general guidance and assistance to Associate and Level I Engineers * Other duties as ...

Role Overview Pyka is looking for an Associate Electrical Engineer to join our growing engineering ... export controls. Employment in this position is conditioned on the continued availability of ...

The Associate Buildings Energy Engineer or Buildings Energy Engineer role involves working closely ... Analyze blueprints to identify mechanical, electrical, and controls systems to determine facility ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Ideal candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in science or engineering, or Associates degree in ... Utilize quality systems to document and address deviations, CAPAs, change controls, and related ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Controls Engineer information

See San Rafael, CA salary details

$61.3K

$107.7K

$146K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in San Rafael, CA is $107,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,100.00 and $120,400.00 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 cities near San Rafael, CA are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near San Rafael, CA with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in San Rafael, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,652 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Systems Engineer II

AeroVironment

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$82K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


AeroVironment rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Worker Type

Regular


Job Description

Summary
The Systems Engineer IIworks with our Design team to develop a variety of innovative Unmanned Systems for defense and commercial applications. This position will interact with Controls Engineers to allocate requirements and develop architectures to drive simulation models. These development efforts will generally be small focused design teams, which will require engineers to use a range of skills and tools across traditional engineering, computer science, and mathematical disciplines. Because of the nature of the development efforts, the engineer will need to work on a variety of stages of development including requirements definition, concept design, prototyping, detailed design, validation and verification testing.

Position Responsibilities

  • Support in the following:
    • Providing weekly Status of System development progress with requirements burn down
    • Allocating Requirements to Subsystems & Engineering coordination
    • Evaluating System performance thresholds and providing direction
    • Developing Instrumented Flight Test vectors and Data acquisition
    • Definition of system Build in Test for Fault Detection, Isolation, Recovery
    • Definition of ground system warnings, cautions, notifications
    • Assist in Requirements and Specification Reviews
    • Prototyping of autonomous systems and validate designs through a series of purpose designed experiments
  • Support design and analysis tasks using AeroVironment and industry developed tools
  • Provide input for model development and simulation analysis
  • Writes system requirements, system test plans, and assist in validation testing
  • Perform a variety of engineering support activities on R&D projects
  • Document work and assist with the transition of new capabilities, technologies and prototypes into a production development environment.
  • Work on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations requires a review of intangibles
  • Apply company policies and procedures to resolve a variety of issues
  • Work within specific requirements to complete tasks under moderate supervision
  • Provides general guidance and assistance to Associate and Level I Engineers
  • Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

  • Bachelors in Mathematics, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • 2 - 5 years of experience in a systems engineering role (Aerospace systems engineering preferred)
  • Familiarity with C/C++ and Matlab required
  • Familiarity with office software and computer-based productivity tools
  • The ideal candidate will be interested in creating Architectures using Model Based Engineering tools

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

  • Knowledge of Simulink, Ansys and Solidworks is preferred
  • Familiarity with Python or ROS (Robot Operating System) and Aircraft Terminology is preferred
  • An understanding of Control Theory and Transform functions helpful
  • Aerospace Systems Engineering Experience is preferred
  • An understanding of Aircraft Terminology is preferred
  • Exposure to Guidance Navigation and Control Systems along with Modeling Simulation and Control and Model-Based Systems Engineering is helpful but not required
  • Ability to develop and enhance professional expertise
  • Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
  • Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
  • Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others and the company. Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
  • Has effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Physical Demands

  • Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Constant)
  • Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)


Clearance Level

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:

$82,000 - $125,000

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment's determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment's business requirements. A "U.S. person" according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

About AV:

AV isn't for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.

We don't just build defense technology-we redefine what's possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian-but we're not building history, we're building what's next.

If you're ready to build technology that matters-with speed, scale, and purpose-there's no better place to do it than AV.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data,sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status.

ITAR

U.S. Citizenship required

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