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Automation Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Design Engineer

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

ATC Automation is seeking a Mid-Senior Level Controls Engineer to join our team at our Simi Valley, California location. In this role, you will design, develop, and support custom automation ...

Controls Design Engineer

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

ATC Automation is seeking a Mid-Senior Level Controls Engineer to join our team at our Simi Valley, California location. In this role, you will design, develop, and support custom automation ...

We are looking for an Automation QA Engineer to design, develop, and execute automated test scripts using Python to ensure the functionality, performance, and reliability of Apple-Beats audio ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 12, 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Automation Design Engineer jobs in California? For Automation Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,818 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Automation Engineer - Sr Level

JSat Automation

Glendale, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description


Jsat Automation is hiring a Sr Automation Engineer.This position is a hybrid role and requires travel to client sites.
  • As a member of the project Team, the successful candidate will be required to support complex and challenging system automation design, implementation & qualification that require solid understanding of analytical problem-solving techniques, project management, lifecycle management and Operational Excellence. This position requires an extensive understanding and background in programming, design, installation and lifecycle management of manufacturing process controls, automation and field instrumentation technologies.
  • Lead and support of capital projects. This role involves the application of advanced automation engineering principles in the design, specification, construction, startup, and validation of process equipment and systems for capital projects of significant scope and complexity. Demonstrated understanding of project life cycles is preferred. Candidate should be familiar with engineering processes from initial conceptualization through project turnover to operations.
  • Leading a project design, implementation & qualification activities for process control applications utilizing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems (SCADA).
  • Development of detailed specification, engineering documents, SOP and operating standards.
  • Design and testing of newly installed and currently installed automation-based process equipment.Support new product introductions or new technology introductions by performing engineering assessments, implementing automation system configuration changes and supporting engineering runs.
  • Devise new approaches to complex problems through adaptations and modifications of standard automation technical principles.
  • Support a safe working environment by complying with all pertinent environmental health/safety practice, rules and regulations
  • Ability to create, update and read electrical design packages including SDS, URS, IQ, OQ and VSR among other engineering and validation documentation.

Requirements
  • Five or more years combined experience with the following product platforms.
    • Rockwell Automation Factory Talk & ControlLogix PLC Platform (Preferred).
    • GE Intellution iFiX SCADA and Control Logix PLCs
    • Wonderware SCADA System
    • DeltaV Distributed Control System
  • Working knowledge and experience with cGMP procedures and engineering practices on pharmaceutical/biotech production processes, facilities, and equipment.
  • Familiarity with industry standards for batch control systems, software development life cycle methodologies, 21 CFR Part 11, and GAMP.
  • Knowledge of ASTM 2500, S88 and S95 techniques. - Batch processing a desired advantage.
  • Strong leadership, technical writing, and communication/presentation skills are required.
  • Preferred Experience using the following systems:
    • Building Management System
    • Testing and Inspection machines for devices
    • Filling systems for Syringe and Vials
    • Industrial Networking for Automation Systems Design and implementation
  • Must be independent, self-motivated, organized, able to multi-task in project environments, and skilled in communication, facilitation, and collaboration. Individual must be a team player prepared to work in and embrace a team-based culture that relies on collaboration for effective decision-making.

If you think you have what it takes, but don't necessarily meet every single point on the job description, please still get in touch. We'd love to have a chat to see what skills/experience you are able to bring to this team.
Benefits
JSat Automation is a global, full service, operational Consulting, Systems Integration & Validation firm headquartered in "Blue Bell PA USA". We offer PTO, Health Benefits, Holidays and a retirement plan to all of our employees.
Salary DOE: The pay range for this position is $120k - $160k per year; however, base pay may be higher or lower depending on the candidate's job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. This figure does not include additional compensation such as health benefits, vacation, etc..