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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Kaav Inc

Protection and Control Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Role: Protection and Control Engineer Location: San Ramon, CA (Onsite) Experience: 9-15 years Job ... SCADA, automation, relay settings, RTU configuration, and Protection & Controls engineering terms ...

GROUPE SEB

Control and Automation Engineer

Montebello, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled Control & Automation Engineer with strong expertise in sensor integration to join our R&D team. The ideal candidate will focus on developing automation solutions that ...

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$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.9K

How much do automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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 $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 leadership responsibilities.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,723 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Automation & Controls Engineer (Facilities)

Automation & Controls Engineer (Facilities)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER (FACILITIES)
As a member of the critical infrastructure team, you will design, build, and activate some of the world's most technically advanced manufacturing facilities. As an automation & controls engineer, you will develop and build a great variety of automated solutions to aid in rapid R&D, production and critical asset management. The automation & control team designs, builds, and commissions complete control systems from the ground up. We are looking for talent with an amazing track record in developing, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems for production and critical infrastructure. This position is based in Hawthorne, CA.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits
  • Lay out new industrial electrical control panels which are NFPA79/NEC/UL508A compliant, and create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics
  • Simulate processes to inform design engineers of the conceptual viability of automation proposals (tools include ABB Robotstudio, Kuka Sim, and Siemens Process Simulate)
  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable for manufacturing applications
  • Generate aesthetically simple screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
  • Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatic, and fluid plumbing
  • Select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as servo motors and controllers
  • Deploy automated processes and equipment into production
  • Set, implement, and maintain schedules and budgets to ensure project completion

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of professional experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Knowledge in building automation systems for critical infrastructure
  • Mechanical (HVAC) controls and wiring, Delta controls
  • Process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systems experience
  • Electrical schematic CAD experience using EPlan
  • C#, .NET, python and/or SQL experience
  • PLC programming experience, preferably Siemens TIA Portal and Beckhoff TwinCat 3
  • HMI and SCADA programming experience
  • Field bus networks, serial communication and Ethernet communication
  • Hands-on experience building and commissioning high quality electrical control panels and electro-mechanical systems
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A codes
  • Exposure to a wide variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (vision systems, dispense systems, temperature controllers, laser distance sensors & Nut-Runners, etc.)
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Experience in fast-paced iterative design and manufacturing environments
  • Experience solving complex problems with little to no supervision on schedule as an individual or as a member of an integrated team

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed
  • Must be willing to travel to other locations

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Automation & Controls Engineer/Level I: $100,000.00 - $115,000.00/per year
Automation & Controls Engineer/Level 2: $110,000.00 - $135,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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