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Automation Controls Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$134.40 - $249.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

## Senior Automation/Controls EngineerApplylocations: Santa Rosa, CA USAtime type: Full timeposted on ... Manage vendors, FAT/SAT, and project documentation* Commission and validate systems into Operations ...

Staff Automation & Controls Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$171K - $235K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • PTO

Purpose The Staff Automation & Controls Engineer will develop flexible robotic manufacturing ... Experience developing SCADA & other factory data management platforms, industrial databases ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Controls Engineer position balances two priorities: keeping automation running in an active ... Manage vendors, FAT/SAT, and project documentation * Commission and validate systems into ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Controls Engineer position balances two priorities: keeping automation running in an active ... Manage vendors, FAT/SAT, and project documentation * Commission and validate systems into ...

Automation/Controls Engineer, Mid-Level

Carlsbad, CA

$95K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... manage installation contractors during construction Researching Automation/Controls materials and best practices Supporting talent growth within our organization Provide coaching and/or mentoring to ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$115K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... lead, or manager With general supervision, designs and troubleshoot both software and hardware ... Automation/Controls materials and best practices Supporting talent growth within our organization ...

Showing results 21-40

Automation Controls Manager information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls manager?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Manager, you need expertise in control systems engineering, PLC programming, industrial automation, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMI software, industry-standard PLCs (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help manage teams and facilitate cross-departmental collaboration. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems that drive operational efficiency and safety.

What is an automation controls manager?

Automation Controls Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems within manufacturing or industrial environments. They manage teams of engineers and technicians, ensure that control systems operate efficiently and safely, and coordinate improvements to increase productivity. Typically, they also work on troubleshooting and upgrading control hardware and software, while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Their role is crucial in optimizing automated processes and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by automation controls managers when overseeing multidisciplinary teams?

Automation Controls Managers often coordinate between engineering, IT, and operations departments, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Managing projects that involve both hardware and software components requires strong organizational skills and the ability to translate technical requirements across disciplines. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving automation technologies while ensuring team members receive proper training is a key aspect of the role. Successful managers foster collaboration by promoting open communication and cross-functional problem-solving.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Manager vs Automation Technician?

AspectAutomation Controls ManagerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Associate degree or technical diploma, certifications like Siemens or Allen-Bradley technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees automation projects, manages teams, coordinates with engineering and managementPerforms hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation systems
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, industrial facilities, and large-scale automation settingsCommon in factories, plants, and maintenance departments

The Automation Controls Manager focuses on overseeing automation projects and managing teams, requiring higher-level credentials and strategic responsibilities. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles the technical installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in automation environments but differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Manager jobs in California?

For Automation Controls Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Automation Controls Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Automation Controls Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Controls Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Viavi

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$134.40 - $249.60/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

## Senior Automation/Controls EngineerApplylocations: Santa Rosa, CA USAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: 250003772**Summary:**VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications. We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company – to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.**Duties & Responsibilities:**# The RoleVIAVI Solutions manufactures advanced optical thin-film and pigment coating products across a 24/7 production environment in Santa Rosa, CA, with additional sites in China and Arizona. This Controls Engineer position balances two priorities: keeping automation running in an active manufacturing operation, and leading new capital project work — machine installations, system upgrades, and next-generation automation platforms. For the right candidate, this role has a clear path into engineering leadership and management of VIAVI's Automation Controls group.** Manufacturing Support*** Resolve PLC/HMI faults rapidly to restore production* Support planned maintenance windows and change deployments* Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions* Improve control logic, alarming, and system reliability* Partner closely with maintenance and operations teams** New Capital Projects*** Own automation scope on new machine installations* Define PLC/HMI/network architecture for new systems* Manage vendors, FAT/SAT, and project documentation* Commission and validate systems into Operations# Key Responsibilities* Design, develop, and maintain PLC and HMI systems for manufacturing equipment* Commission new automation hardware and software; integrate with existing infrastructure* Configure and commission motor drives, motion systems, and closed-loop control systems* Design and administer SQL databases; manage industrial networks (Profibus, Ethernet/IP, OPC)* Maintain source control, documentation, and change records for all control system work* Lead or contribute to capital project scoping, scheduling, and execution* Mentor junior engineers; collaborate across Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams* Demonstrate communication and leadership skills aligned with future management growth**Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:**Required Qualifications* Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, Automation, or equivalent experience* 5+ years in industrial controls/automation in a manufacturing environment* PLC programming: Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal or Mitsubishi GX Developer* Experience supporting automation in 24/7 or continuous production environments* Programming with Visual Studio, C#* End-to-end ownership of capital project automation scope* HMI development, industrial networking, SQL databases, source code management* Strong troubleshooting skills; ability to read electrical schematics and P&IDs* Excellent communication skills; occasional international travel requiredPreferred Skills* Allen-Bradley / Rockwell or Honeywell PLC platforms* LabVIEW, Wonderware System Platform, Oracle, Linux, Windows administration* Vision systems, vacuum coating processes, optics knowledge* Prior team-lead experience**Leadership & Management Growth Path —** High performers will have the opportunity to eventually lead the Controls team technically and move into formal management of VIAVI's Automation Controls Engineering group. Growth is supported through stretch assignments, leadership visibility, and formal development planning.If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer – minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.**Job Posting Pay Range:**134,400to249,600Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program. #J-18808-Ljbffr