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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lyten, Inc.

Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

The Automation Controls Engineer supports the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of automated manufacturing equipment used in advanced battery cell production. This role is ...

Dennis Group Inc

Automation/Controls Engineer II

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

Our Automation/Controls Engineers are frequently facing engineering challenges in applying standard engineering techniques to design, develop, and maintain instrumentation or control systems. Both ...

K2 Space

Automation & Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Own hands-on buildout, activation, and qualification of automation and controls projects across the ... Ability to read engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation * Experience setting ...

Dennis Group

Automation/Controls Engineer II

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

Our Automation/Controls Engineers are frequently facing engineering challenges in applying standard engineering techniques to design, develop, and maintain instrumentation or control systems. Both ...

Archer

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

About The Role: As part of Archer's mission to scale production of our cutting-edge eVTOL aircraft, we are seeking an Sr. Automation Controls Engineer to help design and build manufacturing ...

Meissner Filtration Products

$85K - $112K/yr

The Automation / Controls Engineer leads the controls engineering scope for assigned, well-defined tasks and projects under guidance, owning the full lifecycle (plan, design, build, integration, test ...

K2 Space

Automation & Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Engineered to survive the harshest radiation environments and to fully capitalize on today's and ... Own hands-on buildout, activation, and qualification of automation and controls projects across the ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Automation Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$45.4K

$96.9K

$138.7K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in California is $96,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Automation Controls Engineers?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What Does an Automation Controls Engineer Do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Automation Controls Engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

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

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in CA? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,900 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Automation & Controls Engineer / Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Automation & Controls Engineer / Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Divergent

Torrance, CA

$87K - $115K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Purpose

The Automation & Controls Engineer will support the development of flexible robotic manufacturing systems, core to the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS).

The ideal candidate has a track record of successfully architecting and deploying advanced automated systems in a quick changing, start-up environment. This role will take a hands-on execution approach and use their hardware and software skills to create bleeding-edge industrial automation systems, support production operations, and democratize factory data to support key business decisions. Divergent is pushing the boundaries of technology and we need a passionate and agile engineer to help us create the platform for sustainable manufacturing.

The Role
  • Develop PLC, HMI & SCADA software & controls architectures for the next generation of DAPS factories & factory modules.
  • Contribute to automation standards, frameworks, best practices, and platform selection.
  • Architect new advanced automation systems, ultimately leading to detailed design, development, and commissioning of first article factory modules.
  • Develop controls systems for new and experimental processes in an R&D environment.
  • Understand and steer production operations requirements for factory modules leading to increased overall factory OPE through better development of modules and factory data.
  • Work closely with cross-functional technical teams to ensure that program deliverables and milestones are defined, scheduled, and executed on time and budget.
  • Support engineering teams in achieving resolution of any gridlock, rather than merely report status. Must have the leadership ability and intelligence to drive hands-on execution of a highly motivated and intelligent team under intense time constraints.
Basic Qualifications
  • Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls.
  • 5 years of industrial automation controls experience in dynamic environments.
  • IEC 61131-3 Structured Text programming experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A standards.
  • Experience designing electrical control panels using EPlan or AutoCAD
  • Advanced experience working with the Beckhoff TwinCAT & hardware ecosystem.
  • Advanced experience with industrial automation hardware, fieldbus interfaces and motion control.
  • Advanced industrial networking experience
  • Experience with industrial safety systems, risk assessments and safety over fieldbus protocols, i.e. FSoE & PROFIsafe
  • Experience developing SCADA & other factory data management platforms, industrial databases, dashboards, etc..
  • Experience with Industrial robot platforms, offline program, and virtual commissioning.
  • Experience with industrial electrical schematic tools, such as EPlan or AutoCAD electrical.
  • Experience with standard software engineering practices, object-oriented programming, SOLID, unit testing and development tools such as GIT.
  • Technical leadership experience in defining standards, methods, processes, and training.
Work Environment
  • Office and factory environment
  • 100% onsite
  • Minimal travel
  • Work near moving mechanical parts
Compensation

At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels E04 - E05 as evaluated through our interview process. 

  • Engineer II / E04: $111,300 - $166,960
  • Senior / E05: $128,520 - $192,780

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