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Automation Engineer Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manage complex automation projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope. * Work closely with product, operations, and engineering teams to understand ...

Manage complex automation projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope. * Work closely with product, operations, and engineering teams to understand ...

Sr. Manager, Automation Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

A brief overview The Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering leads the automation engineering function supporting manufacturing, utilities, facilities, and capital projects within a regulated ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our Enterprise Applications team ... Experience with building custom connectors, managing data sources (e.g., Dataverse, SQL, SharePoint ...

Sr. Manager, Automation Engineer

Vista, CA

$107K - $141K/yr

A brief overview The Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering leads the automation engineering function supporting manufacturing, utilities, facilities, and capital projects within a regulated ...

Who You Are You are an executor, builder and systems-minded automation engineer who creates the ... Ability to operate independently, manage multiple product streams simultaneously, and deliver to ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our Enterprise Applications team ... Experience with building custom connectors, managing data sources (e.g., Dataverse, SQL, SharePoint ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our Enterprise Applications team ... Experience with building custom connectors, managing data sources (e.g., Dataverse, SQL, SharePoint ...

... change management, project management, training, security, infrastructure and systems ... onsite automation engineers to investigate the root cause and planning actions to eliminate ...

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to assist in the development and delivery of complex ... You will assist engineering staff and management by contributing to a multidisciplinary and dynamic ...

Automation Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

As our Automation Engineer, you'll turn scientific workflows into working software and integrations ... Hands-on experience with information management and execution systems, such as LIMS or MES.

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to assist in the development and delivery of complex ... You will assist engineering staff and management by contributing to a multidisciplinary and dynamic ...

Automation Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$146K - $185K/yr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to assist in the development and delivery of complex ... You will assist engineering staff and management by contributing to a multidisciplinary and dynamic ...

Manage and execute automation projects, including coordination, progress tracking, quality, cost ... SCADA/HMI Engineering - Practical configuration/support experience (AVEVA/Wonderware, WinCC other ...

Showing results 21-40

Automation Engineer Manager information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.9K

How much do automation engineer manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer manager in California is $105,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $121,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges automation engineer managers face when leading automation projects?

Automation Engineer Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning project goals with business objectives, managing cross-functional teams with varying technical backgrounds, and ensuring clear communication between stakeholders. Balancing the need for innovative automation solutions with budget constraints and tight deadlines is also a frequent hurdle. Successful managers proactively address these challenges by fostering collaboration, setting clear expectations, and continuously monitoring project progress to adapt as needed.

What do automation engineer managers get paid?

Automation engineer managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee automation projects, manage teams, and require knowledge of programming, control systems, and project management tools.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer Manager, you need a solid background in automation engineering principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, industrial control software, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is highly valuable. Outstanding communication, problem-solving, and team-building abilities help drive project success and foster effective collaboration across departments. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering efficient automation solutions, ensuring project quality, and leading high-performing engineering teams.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer Manager vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation Engineer ManagerAutomation Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees automation projects, manages teams, and aligns automation strategies with business goals.Designs, develops, and implements automation solutions; focuses on technical tasks.
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, automation tools, programming, and system integration.Technical skills in automation tools, scripting, and software development.
CertificationsOften includes certifications like PMP, automation-specific certifications, or management credentials.Certifications in automation tools, programming, or industry standards.
Work EnvironmentTypically in managerial settings, coordinating teams and projects.Hands-on technical work in labs, manufacturing, or software environments.

The Automation Engineer Manager focuses on leading automation teams and strategic planning, while the Automation Engineer concentrates on technical development and implementation. Both roles require technical skills, but the manager also needs leadership and project management expertise.

What does an automation engineer manager do?

An Automation Engineer Manager oversees teams responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems within an organization. They coordinate projects, manage resources, and ensure that automation initiatives align with business goals. Their role involves both technical leadership—such as guiding the selection of automation tools and methodologies—and managerial duties, including training, performance evaluations, and cross-department collaboration. Ultimately, they work to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve process reliability through effective automation strategies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in California are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,723 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Automation Engineer

DrinkPAK LLC

Santa Clarita, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Power your Thirst for More at DrinkPAK, where we revolutionize beverage manufacturing, driven by automation and sustainability. Together, through grit and innovation, we break new ground in record time by acquiring the most advanced technology and attracting the brightest talent. Our explosive growth and journey through uncharted territories offers unique career opportunities enabling passionate individuals to reach their full potential. To support our teams, we offer enriching lifestyle accounts, comprehensive benefits, formal development programs, and an energizing environment. Drive your success at DrinkPAK, where we refresh, hydrate and nourish the world and our employees alike.
POSITION DESCRIPTION:The Automation Engineer is responsible for the performance, equipment reliability, uptime percentage, design, development, and optimization of complex automation systems, and processes to improve production efficiency, reduce manual intervention, and ensure high-quality outputs.
BENEFITS
The well-being of our team members and their families is critically important to us. As part of this commitment, we offer:
  • PPO medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees AND their dependents, 100% paid by the Company
  • A cell phone stipend
  • Annual discretionary bonus
  • 401(k) match program, pet insurance, life insurance, and more.

LOCATION: The position is based at DrinkPAK's headquarters in Santa Clarita, California.
TYPE: Full Time; Salary / Exempt.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for production, testing, and quality control systems.

  • Program, configure, and maintain industrial automation systems (e.g., PLCs, SCADA, DCS, HMI).

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation needs and provide tailored solutions.

  • Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize automated processes and equipment to improve system reliability.

  • Perform system upgrades, installations, and regular maintenance on automation equipment.

  • Develop and maintain system documentation, including user manuals and technical reports.

  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards in all automation systems.

  • Conduct testing and validation of automation systems to ensure optimal performance.

  • Continuously monitor system performance and propose improvements for efficiency and cost reduction.

  • Provide technical support and training to operational teams on automated systems.

  • Manage complex automation projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery within budget and scope.

  • Work closely with product, operations, and engineering teams to understand requirements and translate them into scalable automation solutions.

  • Stay up to date with advancements in automation technologies and recommend new tools or practices.

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
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or related technical degree

  • Proven experience as an Automation Engineer or in a similar role.

  • Strong knowledge of PLC programming languages (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text).

  • Experience with industrial control systems (SCADA, DCS, HMI).

  • Proficiency in software tools related to automation and control (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens).

  • Familiarity with robotics, machine vision, and sensor technologies is a plus.

  • Ability to analyze and troubleshoot complex automation issues.

  • Knowledge of safety protocols and industry standards (e.g., IEC, ISO).

  • Knowledge of communication protocols and Ethernet/IP.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

  • Sophisticated troubleshooting skills with high-speed manufacturing equipment such as AC/DC motors, VFDs, PLCs, servo motors, and PLC I/O modules, HMIs, analog and digital signals.

  • Knowledge of liquid process systems, blending, inline instrumentation, pumps, valves, flowmeters, tanks, HTST

  • Knowledge of packaging equipment like, de-palletizer, palletizer, conveyors, filler, packer, pasteurizer

  • Exhibit knowledge in Lean, Six Sigma, or another management system

  • Strong interpersonal skills and team orientation; technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to extract, evaluate, and utilize data for process improvement from applicable systems

  • Willingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays

  • Excellent computer skills

  • Demonstrates adaptability by reacting appropriately to unexpected changes in situations or circumstances

  • Safety, continuous improvement and solutions driven mindset

  • Bilingual (English & Spanish) is a plus

OUR VALUES
Our company's culture is guided by our shared values of Speed, Intensity, and Purpose. These values are demonstrated in the following ways based on the role within the organization.
  • Speed: Take the initiative to promptly identify and address potential issues or opportunities. Maintain a sense of urgency in your work, completing tasks efficiently.
  • Intensity: Remain resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks by possessing a positive attitude, persevering through obstacles, and demonstrating adaptability in your approach.
  • Purpose: Take ownership of your responsibilities, and value the input and skillsets of your peers by working together as One PAK

ABOUT DRINKPAK
DrinkPAK is the premiere manufacturer of canned beverages in North America. As producers of the largest and fastest-growing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in the world, DrinkPAK provides full-service support for procurement, batching, processing, filling, packaging, warehousing, and distribution. Founded in 2020, DrinkPAK has revolutionized canned beverage manufacturing by offering extreme capacity and format flexibility through cutting-edge technology and a commitment to the best talent in the industry. For more information, visit www.drinkpak.com.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Should be able to work in environments with variable noise levels, lighting conditions and temperature variation and able to access all areas of building without limitations.
  • The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms above the head and below the waist.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl for 10-12 hours.
  • Be able to lift and carry up to 50lbs

BASE SALARY RANGE: $130K - $150K