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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raymond West

Principal Control Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$81K - $140K/yr

The Control Engineer's focus will be on designing, implementing, and supporting automation solutions for material handling systems. This role involves working with cross-functional teams to develop ...

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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 14, 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.
Principal Control Engineer

Principal Control Engineer

Raymond West

Cypress, CA • On-site

$81K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Raymond West rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 148 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

Raymond West is seeking a skilled and motivated Principal Controls Engineer to join our Systems team! The Control Engineer's focus will be on designing, implementing, and supporting automation solutions for material handling systems. This role involves working with cross-functional teams to develop control strategies, program PLCs, and integrate hardware/software for conveyors, sorters, robotics, and other automated equipment. The Controls Engineer will lead development projects for the team to develop novel solutions for material handling.
Raymond West is committed to providing our customers with end-to-end warehouse solutions. We bring you our industry-leading expertise in lift trucks, racking, conveyor, dock and door, rentals, parts, and service. Our customers trust us to provide the right supply chain solutions and services to keep their business up and running.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Primary duties and responsibilities will vary with the specific position. Typical responsibilities are listed below. This list is not inclusive.
  • Design and develop control systems for automated material handling equipment.
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, and industrial networks.
  • Create electrical schematics and panel layouts using CAD tools.
  • Collaborate with mechanical and software engineers to ensure seamless system integration.
  • Create testing plans for integrated systems to support commissioning
  • Create standard work to support installation of controls
  • Conduct system testing, commissioning, and support during installation and startup.
  • Optimize system performance and reliability through data analysis and continuous improvement.
  • Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance teams.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, codes, and best practices.

Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent Organizational Time Management skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft office Suite and similar software
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., RSLogix, TIA Portal) and HMI development.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
  • Experience with VFDs, sensors, actuators, and safety systems.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or in a team.
  • Must be able to maintain effective working relationships with employees, Co-workers, and Managers in other departments
  • Must be willing to work off-hours as specific needs dictate and willing to assume more responsibility as required
  • Experience with warehouse automation, AS/RS systems, or robotics.
  • Knowledge of SCADA systems and data acquisition.

Education/Experience:
Minimum Education and Experience: Determined by position
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechatronics, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in controls engineering, preferably in material handling or automation.

Travel Requirement:
  • 50% (20 hours a week)
  • Must be able to be insured by Raymond West.

Physical Requirements:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Position is non-Sedentary.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts.
  • Position will be required to go onto job sites to perform duties where construction is underway.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • The position will require employees to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is occasionally required to smell.
  • Position requires the employee to climb/balance/stoop/kneel/crouch and crawl
  • The employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions and the risk of electrical shock.
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; extreme cold; extreme heat; and vibration.
  • The noise level in the work environment is sometimes loud.

Pay Range:
  • The salary range for this position is $81,000 - $140,000. The specific pay offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, education, and work location.

Qualified candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen.
Raymond West provides medical, dental, vision, 401k with company match, flexible spending accounts, disability insurance, life insurance, personal time off, holiday pay and a great team to work with!
Check us out at www.raymondwest.com. Raymond West has a great group of loyal and hardworking employees who help us maintain our exemplary level of sales and service.
Apply on-line via the submit resume button provided. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage all qualified people to apply. We encourage qualified military veterans and persons with disabilities to submit their resume online. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with the FCO. We are a drug free company.
This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR §§ 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.

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