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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Automation Engineer

Calabasas, CA ยท On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Automation, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in automation, controls ...

Automation Engineer

Calabasas, CA ยท On-site

$79K - $119K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Automation, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in automation, controls ...

Design, program, test and validate process control automation systems. * Prepare and execute ... Chemical engineers preferred, with a minimum of three (3) years relevant experience. * Experience ...

Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Automation, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in automation, controls ...

Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Automation, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in automation, controls ...

Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechatronics, Mechanical, Automation, Control Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in automation, controls ...

The Engineer will have the ability to develop designs of automation control systems of intermediate complexity, consisting of multiple controllers, HMIs, Workstations and Servers. Core Activities

The Engineer will have the ability to develop designs of automation control systems of intermediate complexity, consisting of multiple controllers, HMIs, Workstations and Servers. Core Activities

The Engineer will have the ability to develop designs of automation control systems of intermediate complexity, consisting of multiple controllers, HMIs, Workstations and Servers. Core Activities

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Showing results 1-20

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:
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.
Water Resource Control Engineer

Water Resource Control Engineer

State Water Resources Control Board

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$6.4K - $12K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Please note, this is a repost. If you have already applied for the position you do not need to apply again.
The Water Boards do not participate in E-Verify.
The Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board has an opening for a permanent, full-time Water Resource Control Engineer in the Compliance and Enforcement Section.This is an opportunity to do meaningful and challenging work to protect the water quality resources in the Los Angeles Region. The position location is 320 W. 4 th Street, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90013.
Additional information:
Candidates must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class.
If the position requires driving, you must possess a current and valid driver's license. Please Do Not include full Social Security Number, method of eligibility, and LEAP information in your application package.
Please let us know how you heard about this position by taking this brief survey: Recruitment Survey .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Positions at the Water Boards may be eligible for telework with in-person attendance based on the operational needs of the position and might be expected to comply with Executive Order (EO) 22-25 after July 1, 2026.
In accordance with the Statewide Telework Policy and GC 14200, the successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment. Proof of residency may be required.
Salary Information - CalHR salary rules allow appointment at the entrance rate (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, ยง 599.673) of a classification. For classes with alternate ranges, placement is based on education/experience. E mployees appointed to the Attorney or Water Resource Control Engineer classification will receive Recruitment Higher Above Minimum (HAM) rate in accordance with the approved Civil Service Pay Scales.
In addition, note: Effective July 1, 2025, the State of California implemented the Personal Leave Program 2025 (PLP 2025) which reduces an employee's monthly salary in exchange for leave credits. Employees appointed to this classification will have their monthly salary reduced and will accrue hours of PLP 2025 on the first day of each pay period in accordance with the applicable bargaining contract. The salary range(s) included on this job posting do not reflect the reduction in pay.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • WATER RESOURCE CONTROL ENGINEER
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-509313
Position #(s):
880-140-3846-403
Working Title:
Water Resource Control Engineer
Classification:
WATER RESOURCE CONTROL ENGINEER $6,488.00 - $7,735.00 A
$7,428.00 - $9,296.00 B
$9,137.00 - $11,437.00 C
$9,712.00 - $12,152.00 D
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Los Angeles County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
State Water Resources Control Board
Department Information
The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the nine (9) Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCB) (collectively the Water Boards) work to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California's water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Water Boards value diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the organization. We foster an environment where employees from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences are welcomed and can thrive. We believe the diversity of our employees is essential to inspiring innovative solutions. Together we further our mission to preserve, enhance, and restore the quality of California's water resources and drinking water for the protection of the environment, public health, and all beneficial uses, and to ensure proper water resource allocation and efficient use, for the benefit of present and future generations. Join the Water Boards to improve the lives of all Californians.
Department Website: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/
Special Requirements
In order to be considered for this position, you must include the following:
  • RPA# 25-140-084 in the "Examination or Job Title(s)" section of the State application when submitting a hardcopy application.
  • Photocopies of degree and official transcripts.

Must have Water Resource Control Engineer list, transfer, or reinstatement eligibility and be reachable on the certification list.
Here is the link to the exam: https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Exams/ExamBulletin.aspx?ExamControlId=2925
An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States that does meet accreditation standards must have education records evaluated by a credential's evaluation service. Evaluation of education records will be due during final minimum qualification evaluation of candidate(s). A link of accepted evaluation agencies can be found here: https://www.naces.org/members .
Electronic submittal of applications and attachments through jobs.ca.gov is preferred. Emailed or faxed applications will not be accepted. You are required to complete employment history on the application form (STD. 678), including work experience, dates, hours worked, contact names and phone numbers of supervisors on the state application. Applicants who fail to submit a completed STD. 678 may be disqualified.
In the hiring interview, the panel will consider education, experience, personal development, personal traits and fitness for the job. In appraising experience, more weight may be given to the breadth of pertinent experience and evidence of the candidate's ability to accept and fulfill increasing responsibilities than to the length of his/her experience. For additional information, you may refer to the class specification.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 7/30/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
State Water Resources Control Board
Attn: Danielle Klemencic
1001 I Street, 18th Floor
Sacramento , CA 95814
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
State Water Resources Control Board
Danielle Klemencic
1001 I Street, 18th Floor
Sacramento , CA 95814
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Other - Cover Letter is required and must be included.
  • Statement of Qualifications - Please see below for specific requirements.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Desirable Qualifications In addition to evaluating each candidate's relative ability, as demonstrated by quality and breadth of experience, the following factors will provide the basis for competitively evaluating each candidate:
Please remember these are desireables and not required.
  • Engineer in Training certificate or plans to obtain it.
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering or Environmental Engineering.
  • Experience evaluating and reviewing engineering analyses and reports, preparing scientific and engineering reports/letters, and providing technical feedback.
  • Knowledge or experience in environmental laws and regulations including NPDES stormwater regulations.
  • Experience and/or knowledge on creating maps using GIS software.
  • Experience working in a team.
  • Experience/Ability to work effectively and communicate with internal and external agency representatives, and stakeholders, and participate in technical meetings.
  • Experience/Ability to make effective verbal and written presentations to management and the public.
  • Experience/Ability to propose ideas grounded in scientifically viable approaches through thorough research to improve processes and guide enforcement actions.
  • Experience/Ability to conduct inspections of industrial facilities, and construction sites, review engineering plans, and perform engineering calculations including stormwater discharge calculations using the rational method and the TR-55 method.
  • Experience or knowledge researching, analyzing, interpreting, and applying laws and rules associated with the State's General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities and the State's General Permit for Stormwater Discharges Associated with Land Disturbance and Construction Activities.
  • Experience providing excellent customer service and the steps you took to ensure your customer(s)' satisfaction.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office Suite for data analyses, presentations, and letter and report writing.

Benefits
Water Board employees may be eligible for benefits. Health benefits and leave programs are available for most permanent, full-time employees, and some permanent, part-time employees. Benefit eligibility may depend on length of service and may be subject to collective bargaining agreements negotiated between the State of California and employee organizations that define wages, hours, and terms and conditions of employment. https://www.calhr.ca.gov/Pages/California-State-Civil-Service-Employee-Benefits-Summary.aspx and Health Benefits | CalPERS
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Department Website: https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/
Human Resources Contact:
Danielle Klemencic
(916) 319-8293
danielle.klemencic@waterboards.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Pavlova Vitale
(213) 576-6751
pavlova.vitale@waterboards.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Shyla Hoffman
(916) 341-5881
shyla.hoffman@waterboards.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Statement of Qualifications
A Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) must be submitted along with the State Application and serves as documentation of candidate's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. It should be typed, no more than two (2) pages in length, using Arial size 12pt. font , and normal margins.
Please describe your experience and knowledge as it pertains to the listed desirable qualifications. Please indicate length of experience in months/years. Please indicate your total years of experience or training when preparing the Statement of Qualifications.
Applications received without the SOQ addressed as stated will not be considered.
For guidance on writing effective SOQs, visit: Work4CA: How to Write a Statement of Qualifications . Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be useful in the development of written responses; however, it is import