Automation Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About CKC Automation

CKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through innovative automation solutions. Founded in 2005 (as CKC Engineering) and headquartered in Benicia, CA, we serve diverse industries across the Bay Area and West Coast — including automotive, medical device, pharmaceutical, energy, and semiconductor — combining deep technical expertise with creative problem-solving to tackle complex manufacturing challenges. We design and build custom automation solutions that improve efficiency, enhance quality, and drive innovation.

Our offerings include:

• Machine — Robotic workcells, build-to-print solutions, prototype equipment, and fixtures
• Panel — High-volume panel assembly from our UL 508A-certified panel shop
• Controls / Data — PLC, HMI, and robotic integration for optimized production. Real-time monitoring, analytics, and SCADA/data infrastructure

Website: ckcautomation.com

Why Join Us

• Work hands-on with industry-leading control systems and automation platforms
• Contribute to challenging, high-impact industrial automation projects
• Collaborate in a professional, supportive, and technically driven team environment

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to design, develop, test, and implement control systems in industrial environments. The role requires a strong understanding of industrial automation, control systems, and data communications.

You will collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and control engineers, as well as project managers, to deliver tailored solutions that meet client needs. This position is ideal for someone with initiative, adaptability, and a passion for technology and industrial automation.

Responsibilities:

• Ability to read electrical schematics, P&ID’s, and network diagrams.
• Identify control system components and develop a Bill of Materials to meet project requirements.
• Develop panel layout drawings and electrical schematics.
• Assist with design and development of software for industrial control systems
• Specify process instrumentation.
• Test and debug software solutions in simulated and live industrial environments to ensure stability, reliability, and performance.
• Install, commission, and maintain control systems in client facilities.
• Complete projects within a budget and maintain high customer satisfaction.
• Consistently and reliably support Lead and Senior Engineers on project work.
• Consistently and reliably communicate status updates on assigned tasks to team members, project managers, and customers.
• Acknowledge communications within 4 business hours.
• Spend at least 85% of working hours on billable work.
• Write clear documentation for customers and team members.
• Participate in client meetings to understand requirements and provide technical insights and recommendations.
• Pursue skills and/or certifications on mainstream platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Beckhoff, Ignition, AVEVA, and GE.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 0-5 years of experience in PLC programming, HMI programming, SCADA systems, VFDs, motion control and control panel design.
• Knowledge of, or interest in, industrial processes, mechanical systems, and manufacturing equipment.
• Understanding of networking and communication protocols, e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet
• Basic working knowledge of AutoCAD.
• Strong communication (oral, written, and listening) and collaboration skills.
• Possesses problem-solving and troubleshooting skills and aptitude with researching unfamiliar topics
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail, ability to spot and correct errors, and commitment to high-quality work.
• Willingness to travel to client sites for system installation and commissioning.
• Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours as required by clients’ needs.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays

Salary: $85,000 - $135,000