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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Automation & Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$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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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 Jun 11, 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

An Automation Controls Engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large industrial or manufacturing settings. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and automation software, as well as working in high-demand industries or companies with complex automation needs.

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.

How much do spacex automation controls engineers make?

Automation Controls Engineers at SpaceX typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often require knowledge of PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, with some roles offering additional benefits and bonuses.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLC programming, robotics, and systems integration can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and leadership responsibilities.

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.

What does a controls and Automation Engineer do?

A controls and automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to improve efficiency and safety in manufacturing or industrial environments. Strong technical skills and knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems are essential for this role.
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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 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,900 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Automation & Controls Engineer

Automation & Controls Engineer

CelLink Corporation

San Carlos, CA • On-site

$100K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Automation & Controls Engineer
At CelLink, we're transforming how the world's most advanced vehicles and energy systems are powered. Our lightweight, flexible circuits are used in electric vehicles, data centers, and other cutting-edge technologies, helping major OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers build more efficient, sustainable products.
We're looking for anAutomation & Controls Engineerto help us scale our next-generation manufacturing systems. In this role, you'll design and integrate advanced automation solutions, spanning PLCs, robotics, motion control, and machine vision, while collaborating with an exceptional team of engineers driving innovation at the intersection of hardware and software.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Integrate controls and develop software for a wide range of hardware, such as PLC, PC, and RC (robot controller) based equipment and automation control systems, motion controllers, and machine vision systems, high-resolution test, measurement, and data acquisition equipment, heater controllers, web handling and roll-to-roll system web velocity and tension, and web edge guiding and steering mechanisms, pneumatic actuators, encoders, force sensors, thermocouples, analog devices, and various location, distance, and material presence sensors.
  • Engage directly with new product design, process, equipment, quality, and manufacturing engineers to develop and modify controls and software that improve equipment usability and efficiency, product capability and performance, and process control data integrity.
  • Troubleshoot equipment, including finding the root cause of failures and engineering solutions to correct them.
  • Provide timely and accurate project status, documentation, and training.
  • Develop and execute test plans to validate equipment functionality.
  • Develop and maintain equipment and automation controls and software-related technical documentation such as BOMs, schematics, functional specifications, design and test specifications, and standard operating procedures.
  • Develop, deploy, and maintain revision control of changes made on equipment where the Hardware and software must be copied exactly.
  • Support controls engineering, standards compliance, assembly, modification, and documentation upkeep.
  • Work closely with equipment vendors throughout all phases of a project's development on software and controls requirements and related issues.
  • Support factory expansion efforts, including supplier acceptance testing, equipment commissioning, and process qualification.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
Experience/Education
  • BS in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automation, or Computer Engineering (Software Engineering may be considered as a complement).
  • 3-7 years of hands-on experience in Automation and Controls Engineering, or a similar field.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Control system engineering and software development of complex process tools and automation, primarily using Beckhoff TwinCAT, Mitsubishi, Siemens, and Omron PLCs in both structured text
    and ladder logic, Inductive Automation Ignition HMI and user interfaces, FANUC robotics, Basler cameras, Keyence cameras, code readers, and marking controllers.
  • Electrical design (AutoCAD Electrical or equivalent) and control panel fabrication/wiring.
  • Experience with Windows and Linux operating systems, and programming using Python, C#, C++, SQL, or experience with machine vision programming using TensorFlow, TensorRT, YOLO, or MVTec HALCON is beneficial but not required.
  • Real-time data acquisition for process control monitoring; MES experience is a plus.
  • Ability to travel 15% as needed.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and documentation ability.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
Compensation
We're hiring for multiple positions and will align compensation accordingly based on level and years of experience.
Working Conditions/Hours
Physical Demands - Office and Manufacturing Environment
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, pull/push, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds without assistance. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment -
Includes both a typical office environment, with minimal exposure to excessive noise or adverse environmental issues, and a shop environment, with exposure to high noise levels from operating machines, physical hazards from moving equipment and machine parts, nuisance dust, and skin exposure to chemicals used to run/maintain machines
PPE-
May be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to safety glasses, safety shoes, bump-caps, gloves, hair nets, masks, & clean-room frocks while adhering to the prescribed safety procedures
https://www.cellinktechnologies.com/privacy-policy
We believe diversity and inclusion among our teammates are essential to our success. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees while building teams that represent a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We are an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. CelLink participates in the E-Verify program in specific locations as required by law.
CelLink was founded in 2012 and entered volume production in 2018. CelLink provides electrical systems to the world's leading automotive OEMs & EV manufacturers, data center developers, and stationary power companies. The company has raised approximately $315M in funding through private investment and multiple grants from the US Department of Energy. CelLink's investors include 3M, Atreides, BMW, BorgWarner, Bosch, D1 Capital, Fidelity, Fontinalis Partners, Ford, Franklin Templeton, Lear, Park West, SK Telecom, Standard Investments, T. Rowe Price, Tinicum, and Whale Rock.

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