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Automation Engineer I Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lonza

Senior Automation Engineer I

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$107K - $178K/yr

... QA-to engineer and implement "right-the-first-time" automation solutions. * Collaborate with ... Maintain and troubleshoot plant control systems-including PLCs, DCS, and field I/O devices-to ...

Lonza

Senior Automation Engineer I

Vacaville, CA

$107K - $178K/yr

... QA-to engineer and implement "right-the-first-time" automation solutions. * Collaborate with ... Maintain and troubleshoot plant control systems-including PLCs, DCS, and field I/O devices-to ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

Emeryville, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

Irvine, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

CRB

Automation Engineer IV

Emeryville, CA · On-site

As an Automation, Instrumentation and Controls (AIC) Engineer at CRB, you are essential to the ... Provides mentorship to discipline Engineer I, II and III and/or Designer I and II. * Leads a team ...

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Automation Engineer I information

What are the roles and responsibilities of an Automation Engineer I?

An Automation Engineer I is an entry-level professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated systems used in manufacturing or other industries. Their duties typically include programming automation equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, implementing process improvements, and collaborating with other engineering teams to optimize efficiency and safety. They also assist with system documentation, testing, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. As a junior position, an Automation Engineer I often works under the guidance of more experienced engineers while gaining hands-on experience with automation technologies.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer I vs Automation Engineer II?

AspectAutomation Engineer IAutomation Engineer II
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like ISTQB or Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonSame as Automation Engineer I, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level position, often in manufacturing, software, or industrial settingsMid-level role with increased responsibilities, more complex projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, software development, and industrial automation companiesTypically found in the same industries, with more autonomy and project scope

Automation Engineer I and Automation Engineer II roles share similar educational backgrounds and certifications. The main difference lies in experience and responsibility level, with Automation Engineer II handling more complex tasks and projects. Both roles are common in manufacturing, software, and industrial sectors, with the II position requiring more expertise and independence.

How does an Automation Engineer I typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As an Automation Engineer I, you'll regularly work alongside software developers, quality assurance specialists, and operations staff to design, implement, and test automated systems. Collaboration often involves participating in project meetings to understand requirements, sharing progress updates, and troubleshooting automation issues as a team. Effective communication and a willingness to learn from more experienced colleagues are key, as you'll often need to translate technical details for non-technical team members and adapt to evolving project needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Engineer I, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer I, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, programming fundamentals, and knowledge of automation systems, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial robotics, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities make you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for designing efficient automation solutions, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring smooth integration within manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer I jobs in California? For Automation Engineer I jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer I jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer I jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Automation Engineer I jobs? Cities in California with the most Automation Engineer I job openings:
Automation Engineer I jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer I job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Automation Engineer I

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Diamond Bar, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Niagara Bottling rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 434 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

At Niagara, we're looking for Team Members who want to be part of achieving our mission to provide our customers the highest quality most affordable bottled water.
Consider applying here, if you want to:
  • Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment with a chance to make an impact.
  • Develop lasting relationships with great people.
  • Have the opportunity to build a satisfying career.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages for our Team Members.
Automation Engineer I
This role requires a hands-on engineer driven by curiosity and self-initiated problem-solving, with experience building and troubleshooting independent technical projects spanning robotics, electronics, software and controls. Adapts quickly to new tools and technologies, applies cross-disciplinary thinking from robotics, electronics, software and controls while being comfortable solving problems without an established playbook. Furthermore, one should be able to explain complex technical work to diverse audiences.
You'll use existing tools alongside newer, emerging technology to solve problems and integrate solutions into real manufacturing lines and equipment. Some of what you build will touch traditional automation and some of it won't fit neatly into any existing category; that's expected.
You might be a fit if...
  • You have a project (school, personal, hobby, competition, etc) that you're still a little too excited to talk about
  • You've built something nobody asked you to build, just to see if you could
  • You've gone down a technical rabbit hole that had nothing to do with an assignment or a job
  • You've combined ideas from different fields to solve a problem, because you didn't know, or care, that they were "supposed" to stay separate
  • You're comfortable starting on a problem that doesn't have a clear playbook yet, rather than waiting for someone to hand you the steps
  • You enjoy explaining something you built to someone with zero context, and somehow getting them to care

Essential Functions
How You'll Stand Out
  • Self-directed builder with a track record of designing and completing independent technical projects
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex systems independently, diagnosing root-cause issues beyond assigned scope
  • Experience integrating concepts across multiple disciplines (e.g., robotics, electronics, software, controls) to develop novel solutions
  • Comfortable operating in ambiguous, undefined problem spaces without established procedures or guidance
  • Skilled at communicating technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences, translating complex systems into accessible explanations
  • Proven initiative and intrinsic motivation, evidenced by self-started projects, competitions, or hobby builds

Automation Support and Implementation
  • Own programming, testing, and maintaining PLC, HMI, and control systems
  • Support automation project execution under the direction of senior engineers
  • Participate in commissioning and validation of new equipment and upgrades

Troubleshooting and Maintenance
  • Perform structured troubleshooting using established diagnostic and root-cause techniques
  • Escalate issues with clear data, observations, and hypotheses, not just symptoms
  • Apply repeatable troubleshooting methods
  • Work with maintenance and production teams to resolve technical issues
  • Document changes and updates to control systems

Skill Development and Engineering Judgement
  • Develop the ability to assess multiple solution options and understand associated risks
  • Learn when decisions can be made independently versus when escalation is required
  • Document assumptions and learning outcomes from projects and failures

Data Collection and Process Improvement
  • Collect and validate operational data to support automation improvements, including the use of AI-assisted analytics, visualization, or alerting tools where applicable
  • Assist with implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency

Collaboration and Compliance
  • Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to align automation activities with production needs

Ensure compliance with safety standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements
  • Please note this job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without prior notice.

Qualifications
Minimum Required
  • 0-2 years of experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
  • Bachelor's degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
  • Basic programming (Python, C++, etc.)
  • Foundational knowledge of PLCs, control systems, and industrial automation.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • List if any travel is required using percentage of time:
    • 50% - on average

Preferred
  • 2 Years- Experience in Field or similar manufacturing environment
  • 2 Years - Experience working in Position
  • 2 Years - Experience managing people/projects
  • Experience with Sensors, edge devices, or embedded systems
  • Experiencing with hardware prototyping
  • Internship or co-op experience in automation, controls, or manufacturing.
  • Exposure to data analytics tools, scripting, or AI-assisted engineering platforms
  • Exposure to Rockwell, Siemens, or similar PLC platforms.
  • Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMIs, and industrial networks.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.

*experience may include a combination of work experience and education
  • Minimum Required:
    • Bachelor's Degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.
  • Preferred:
    • Master's Degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field.

Certification/License:
  • Required: N/A
  • Preferred: N/A

Typical Compensation Range
Pay Rate Type: Salary
$82,011.54 - $118,916.74 / Yearly
Benefits
Our Total Rewards package is thoughtfully designed to support both you and your family:
Regular full-time team members are offered a comprehensive benefits package, while part-time, intern, and seasonal team members are offered a limited benefits package.
  • Paid Time Off for holidays, sick time, and vacation time
  • Paid parental and caregiver leaves
  • Medical, including virtual care options
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Health Savings Account with company match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Expanded mental wellbeing benefits including free counseling sessions for all team members and household family members
  • Family Building Benefits including enhanced fertility benefits for IVF and fertility preservation plus adoption, surrogacy, and Doula reimbursements
  • Income protection including Life and AD&D, short and long-term disability, critical illness and an accident plan
  • Special discount programs including pet plans, pre-paid legal services, identity theft, car rental, airport parking, etc.
  • Tuition reimbursement, college savings plan and scholarship opportunities
  • And more!

https://careers.niagarawater.com/us/en/benefits
* *Los Angeles County applicants only** Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, the California Fair Chance Act, and any other applicable local and state laws.
Any employment agency, person or entity that submits a résumé into this career site or to a hiring manager does so with the understanding that the applicant's résumé will become the property of Niagara Bottling, LLC. Niagara Bottling, LLC will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person or entity.
Employment agencies that have fee agreements with Niagara Bottling, LLC and have been engaged on a search shall submit résumé to the designated Niagara Bottling, LLC recruiter or, upon authorization, submit résumé into this career site to be eligible for placement fees.

What Niagara Bottling employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Niagara Bottling logo

About Niagara Bottling

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Niagara Bottling, LLC has been family owned and operated since 1963. Niagara is a leading bottled water manufacturer in the U.S., supplying major retailers across the nation. Nielsen +/biNyDGcAS61OV0GIrHcWTOCFo= Nielsen is a global leader in audience measurement, data and analytics, shaping the future of media. Measuring behavior across all channels and platforms to discover what audiences love, we empower our clients with trusted intelligence that fuels action. Do you want to move the industry forward with Nielsen? Our people are the driving force. Your thoughts, ideas and expertise can propel us forward. Whether you have fresh thinking around maximizing a new technology or you see a gap in the market, we are here to listen and take action. Our team is made strong by a diversity of thoughts, experiences, skills, and backgrounds. You'll enjoy working with smart, fun, curious colleagues, who are passionate about their work. Come be part of a team that motivates you to do your best work! NielsenIQ /xHzLYOL7B5gJKeErHR5OpVt2Os= NielsenIQ is a global measurement and data analytics company providing the most complete and trusted view of consumers and markets in 90 countries covering 90% of the world's population. Focusing on consumer-packaged goods manufacturers and FMCG and retailers, we enable customers to defy what's possible. How? We combine unparalleled datasets, pioneering technology, and the industry's top talent to create insights that unlock innovation. Join us and change the landscape. Nike weB0VQ7iUwaCHWNipwHEhUU5oFo= Our purpose is to unite the world through sport to create a healthy planet, active communities, and an equal playing field for all. In order to stay at the top of our game, we're always looking to level-up with outstanding people who provide the kind of above-and-beyond service that inspires Nike fans for life! NOCD qMdV2+zQfKcKckWjOX3hDGP8fkM= NOCD is the #1 telehealth provider for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is one of the most severe, prevalent, and misunderstood mental health conditions. NOCD creates access to online therapy for people with OCD through our telehealth platform. In the NOCD app, members can quickly access and schedule live, face-to-face video therapy sessions with our national network of licensed therapists that specialize in Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP) - considered the gold standard" in OCD treatment. At NOCD, we help people reclaim their lives with clinically proven OCD treatment, by removing barriers to OCD care, and reducing the stigma associated with OCD. We're changing the world and need other like-minded individuals to accelerate and expand our efforts.

Industry

Food and beverage stores

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Diamond Bar, CA, US

Year founded

1963

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