ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SLR Search

Sr Systems Control Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $141K/yr

Join an elite team as Senior Systems Control Engineer architecting complex automation control systems and next-generation laser processing workstations. Senior Systems Control Engineer Benefits ...

New

Automationtechies

Control Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position ...

Automationtechies

Control Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

Our client's Control Engineers design, develop, and commission automation solutions across a wide range of industries while working with cutting-edge technologies. Engineers in this position ...

Envista

Automation & Controls Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$83K - $111K/yr

The Automation & Controls Engineer alongside the RDT (Research Development and Transformation) team ... Monitor inventory levels of automation control components and systems. Coordinate with the ...

New

Hill International

Automation Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Hill International is seeking an Automation Engineer in Berkeley, California Hill is seeking an ... Develop software interfaces to control hardware and prepare detailed design documentation.

Graybar

Industrial Automation Sales Manager

Dublin, CA · On-site

$140K/yr

Lead and develop high-tech automation/control team including Technical Specialists, Sales Engineers, Quotation Specialists, and others, as required. * Collaborate with customers, suppliers and ...

Orbia

Plant Control Engineer

Fresno, CA

$80K - $95K/yr

The Control & Support Engineer provides hands-on technical support and engineering expertise for electrical, automation, and manufacturing systems in a 24/7 production environment. This role focuses ...

Orbia

Plant Control Engineer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

The Control & Support Engineer provides hands-on technical support and engineering expertise for electrical, automation, and manufacturing systems in a 24/7 production environment. This role focuses ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Control Engineer JobsAutomation Control Engineer Jobs in California

Automation Control Engineer information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.9K

How much do automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation control engineer in California is $105,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $121,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation control engineer do?

An automation control engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes and industrial operations. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and control software to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. The role often requires knowledge of electrical engineering, control theory, and relevant industry standards.

What is the difference between Automation Control Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsPower plants, electrical design firms, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, construction, electronics

Automation Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often working with PLCs and SCADA. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Control Engineers specialize in automation technology within industrial environments.

How does an Automation Control Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Automation Control Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as production and maintenance teams, to design, implement, and optimize automated systems. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as engineers must integrate control systems with other disciplines and ensure seamless operation within the larger production environment. Regular meetings, design reviews, and troubleshooting sessions are common, enabling the team to address challenges quickly and maintain project timelines. Building strong professional relationships and understanding each team's needs can greatly improve project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and process automation, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and relevant industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help set top candidates apart. Mastery of these skills ensures reliable system performance, smooth integration of automated solutions, and efficient troubleshooting in complex industrial environments.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced automation control engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or large-scale manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require extensive expertise in control systems, programming, and project management, along with a track record of successful large projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation control engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks, and often working in high-demand industries or management roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this salary typically requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in large or complex facilities.

What is an Automation Control Engineer?

An Automation Control Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that control automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They work with technologies like programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and robotics to optimize and streamline production or operational workflows. Their work ensures efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. Automation Control Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to implement and troubleshoot control solutions.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automation control engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in senior or managerial roles.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Control Engineer jobs in California? For Automation Control Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Control Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Control Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Automation Control Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Automation Control Engineer job openings:
Automation Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Control Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,723 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Sr Systems Control Engineer

SLR Search

Los Angeles, CA

$105K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

New

Job description

Join an elite team as Senior Systems Control Engineer architecting complex automation control systems and next-generation laser processing workstations.
Senior Systems Control Engineer Benefits
— Starting Salary Targeting $105k - $141k range
— Medical, dental, and vision packages with HMO, PPO, and HSA choices
— 401(k) and Roth retirement plans featuring an employer match program
— 100% company-paid Basic Life and Long-Term Disability protection insurance
— Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for medical and dependent care expenses
— Paid time off including accrued vacation, sick leave, and corporate holidays
— Generous holiday calendar featuring 12 paid holidays each year
— Tuition reimbursement for continuing higher education and advanced technical certifications
— Free access to an employee assistance program for confidential support services
— Mentorship-driven, highly autonomous technical leadership structure with global mobility
— Voluntary employee-paid options for pet, accident, critical care, and legal insurance
Senior Systems Control Engineer Qualifications
— 6+ years of deep expertise designing custom motion control and HMI systems.
— Active mastery of RS Logix, PointIO, OPC UA, and diversified multi-brand PLC logic.
— Experience implementing custom machine vision applications like Cognex or Keyence.
— Ability to work onsite out of a state-of-the-art engineering and automation technical facility in the Greater Los Angeles area.
— Able to meet ITAR US persons requirements