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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Space

Automation & Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$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 ...

Dennis Group

Automation/Controls Engineer III

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/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 ...

HADRIAN

Automation Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $220K/yr

The Role We are hiring a generalist Automation Controls Engineer to join Hadrian's Special Projects team, standing up customer production lines that span custom tooling, robotic cells, and integrated ...

HADRIAN

Automation Controls Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$130K - $220K/yr

The Role We are hiring a generalist Automation Controls Engineer to join Hadrian's Special Projects team, standing up customer production lines that span custom tooling, robotic cells, and integrated ...

Meissner

Automation / Controls Engineer

Camarillo, CA

$85K - $110K/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 ...

Archer

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA

$126K - $158K/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 ...

Semiserve

Controls & Automation Engineer

Concord, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

PTS Advance is looking for a Automation Engineer specializing in industrial automation, controls, SCADA systems. Essential job requires both office and field environments. The position entails some ...

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Automation Controls Engineer information

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$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.
Sr. Automation & Controls Engineer (Facilities)

Sr. Automation & Controls Engineer (Facilities)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$130K - $180K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 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.
SR. 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
  • 5+ 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/Senior: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00/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:
    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

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