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Automation Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Design Automation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$95K - $110K/yr

Our innovation in programmable logic began in 1983. Since then we've delivered the tools and ... in design automation and by teams in the design of hardware products, process design, or ...

Automation Engineer

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Design and implement automation strategies for molding, inspection, assembly, and packaging ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering ...

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Automation Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$64.1K

$95.8K

$153K

How much do automation design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation design engineer in California is $95,818.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation design engineer do?

An Automation Design Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes automated systems and machinery to improve efficiency and productivity. They work with mechanical, electrical, and software systems to create solutions for manufacturing and industrial processes. Their responsibilities include designing automation frameworks, selecting appropriate hardware and software, and troubleshooting system issues. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions. The role requires expertise in CAD software, programming languages, and control systems like PLCs and robotics.

What are some typical challenges automation design engineers face, and how are they addressed?

Automation Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy systems, optimizing processes for efficiency, and troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions. These issues are addressed by staying current with industry trends, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, and applying strong analytical skills to develop creative solutions. Continuous learning and proactive communication with colleagues in manufacturing, IT, and quality assurance help ensure that projects are delivered on time and meet organizational goals. By anticipating potential obstacles and fostering a culture of innovation, engineers can effectively manage the complexities inherent in automation projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Design Engineer, you need strong expertise in engineering principles, automation systems, and technical drawing, usually supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, robotics platforms, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are highly valuable. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure you can design efficient automation solutions, collaborate across teams, and adapt to evolving technologies and project requirements.

What job categories do people searching Automation Design Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Design Engineer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Automation Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,818 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Engineer 2, Automation Design (Mechanical)

Illumina, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Illumina rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?
At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.
Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.
Job Summary:
The Automation Systems and Design Engineering (ASD) team is part of the Process and Automation Engineering (PAE) group within the Manufacturing Technology and Transfer (MTT) organization. This functional team has the responsibility for enabling new and existing manufacturing operational capabilities through the design, development, and support of manufacturing equipment systems. As a Design Engineer, you will leverage your experience and design knowledge to create solutions to manual, semi-automated, and automated manufacturing problems for Illumina consumables. In addition, you will own and support the deployment of various design solutions to NPI programs throughout the planning, requirements, specification and design, verification, validation and production release phases of capital equipment projects.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop NPI and Manufacturing solutions by designing and modifying equipment and fixtures for fabrication, build, assembly, documentation, installation, and release
  • Capture and convert the needs of various NPI and Manufacturing programs and projects into appropriate, manufacturable, and reliable design solutions
  • Follow through on transfer and release of NPI products into manufacturing, track issues, and implement corrective design actions
  • Conduct detailed tolerance analyses on assemblies
  • Participate in troubleshooting and failure analyses
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and colleagues within Process Engineering, Product Development, Systems Engineering, Manufacturing, Software, Validation, Quality, and EH&S
  • Demonstrate ability to multi-task, stay organized, and incorporate feedback in a fast-paced environment
  • Successfully meet programs milestones while breaking down barriers to design creative solutions and achieve results

Experience:
  • Demonstrated knowledge of mechanical engineering design principles and practices - Form, fit, tolerance stack analysis, GD&T, drafting standards, FEA, design for assembly, design for manufacturing, etc.
  • Experience designing and working with mechanisms, such as clutches, gear trains, cams, and linkages or selection of electromechanical components such as motors, power transmission components and sensors
  • Experience in designing and troubleshooting electro-mechanical/mechatronic assemblies
  • Knowledge in material manufacturing methods including, but not limited to: machining, sheet metal forming, additive manufacturing, and injection molding
  • Fluent in SolidWorks CAD software or similar
  • Experience in FDA regulated markets is a plus
  • Experience in statistical practices and methods is a plus

Education:
  • Typically requires a minimum of 2-3 years of related experience in biotech, medical device, or IVD field with a Bachelor's degree; or 1-2 year(s) with a Master's degree
  • Engineering Degree preferred in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering or equivalent

The estimated base salary range for the Engineer 2, Automation Design (Mechanical) role based in the United States of America is: $90,000 - $135,000. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. The range reflects long-term growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact accommodations@illumina.com. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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