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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

TAD PGS, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Pomona, CA · On-site

$67.50/hr

We have an outstanding Contract position for a Controls Engineer to join a leading Company located ... Typical projects will be to develop robotic material handling systems for industrial automation.

Motoman

Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

Experience designing automation including pneumatic and electro-mechanical systems essential ... or controls The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or ...

Yaskawa Motoman Robotics

Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

AutoCAD 2D skills a plus. • Experience designing automation including pneumatic and electro ... controls. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Automation Engineer

Ontario, CA · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that ... advanced automation controls systems maintenance and development * 3+ years of experience ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Automation Engineer

Hesperia, CA · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Summary At C&W Services, we live by the belief that "Better Never ... advanced automation controls systems maintenance and development * 3+ years of experience ...

Ambient Enterprises

Controls Programmer

Orange, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Control programming of building automation systems for commercial buildings • Program Tridium ... Building automation systems (BAS) or commercial HVAC controls experience • Familiarity with BAS ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$48K

$102.4K

$146.6K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Riverside, CA is $102,435.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,100.00 and $115,300.00 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
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,435 per year, or $49.2 per hour.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

TAD PGS, Inc.

Pomona, CA • On-site

$67.50/hr

Contractor

Medical, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

We have an outstanding Contract position for a Controls Engineer to join a leading Company located in the Pomona, CA surrounding area.

Pay Rate: $67.50

The qualified candidate will have a demonstrated ability to develop and implement HMI-ignition platforms. The position will focus on the development and implementation of projects utilizing Ignition. The ideal candidate will have experience managing projects and teams as well as seeing projects through completion from start to finish with their R&D team. Typical projects will be to develop robotic material handling systems for industrial automation.

Basic Hiring Criteria:
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Experience in programming and configuring multiple PLC and HMI platforms
  • Experience with scripting languages and database development 
  • Proven expertise with Ignition
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC/HMI or Robotics
  • Must have Vision System - Cognex Insight Explorer and/or Vision Pro experience
  • Travel 20-25% to Mexico

Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.

Military connected talent encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled 

To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Education:Bachelors DegreeEmployment Type: CONTRACTOR

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