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Automation Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Regional Automation Engineer

Patterson, CA · On-site

As the Regional Automation Engineer, you will engage on all aspects of high-level support for the control systems within a region of Amazon sites. This work takes the form of direct field engagement ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Tracy, CA · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Tracy, CA · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Quora

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Stockton, CA · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

sunopta

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Manage automation improvement projects. * PLC logic programming. * Design, configure, integrate, and implement process control solutions for various manufacturing specifications. * Develop control ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Automation Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$39K

$113K

$172K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Modesto, CA is $113,019.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $130,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

What are Automation Engineers?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What is the work of an automation engineer?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software testing, or other repetitive tasks. They use tools like PLCs, scripting languages, and automation software to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of control systems are essential for this role.

Is there a shortage of automation engineers?

Automation engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, technology, and automotive due to increasing automation and integration of control systems. The job market for automation engineers is generally strong, with many employers seeking candidates skilled in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, often requiring relevant certifications and experience. This demand is expected to continue as companies focus on efficiency and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in tech companies or executive roles.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What are some common challenges Automation Engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What Does an Automation Engineer Do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within an automation engineer's role, such as data analysis and process optimization. However, automation engineers are essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex systems that require human oversight, problem-solving, and domain expertise. AI is expected to augment rather than fully replace automation engineers in most environments.
More about Automation Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? For Automation Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Automation Engineer jobs near you
Automation Technician / Automation Engineer

Automation Technician / Automation Engineer

The Morning Star Company

Los Banos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Automation Technician / Automation Engineer
Location
Liberty Packing Company, LLC
About the Company
The Morning Star Company and its affiliates operate three tomato processing facilities in Central California, processing about 40% of the California processing tomato crop, in addition to tomato growing, transplanting, farming, harvesting and trucking operations. The company employs approximately 500 year-round and over 3,000 seasonal colleagues, with annual sales of about $1 billion.
The Morning Star Company is the largest producer of bulk tomato ingredient products (tomato paste and diced tomatoes) in the world. We also produce canned tomatoes, tomato products and specialty sauces in pouches for customers in the retail and food service markets. The company is known worldwide for its innovation and integrity.
We are organizationally structured through a system we term Mission Focused Self-Management™. Our company is operated by Colleagues without titles or an appointed hierarchy of authority. Authority relative to other Colleagues' activities is lateral, with our Mission as our guiding principle of action, and respect, influence and success built based on each Colleague's integrity, competency, effort, persistence and straightforward persuasiveness. Although we have grown significantly, we intend to maintain a culture of individual responsibility and Mission Focused Self-Management.
Role Summary
The Automation Technician / Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of industrial automation systems across processing and packaging operations. This role supports reliable plant operation by maintaining PLC, HMI, instrumentation, and electrical control systems while driving continuous improvement, troubleshooting, and automation upgrades in a food and beverage manufacturing environment.
The position works closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and external vendors to ensure safe, robust, and efficient automation systems that meet production, quality, and food safety requirements.
Key Responsibilities
  • Automation & Controls
    • Design, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems, including logic, I/O, and communications
    • Develop and support HMI/SCADA systems for process monitoring and operator interaction
    • Diagnose and resolve automation-related downtime in processing and packaging equipment
    • Support startup, commissioning, and validation of new automation systems and equipment
    • Program and troubleshoot servo motors and drives
  • Electrical & Instrumentation
    • Troubleshoot electrical control panels, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, and field devices
    • Maintain and calibrate instrumentation (flow, pressure, temperature, level, pH, etc.)
    • Interpret and update electrical schematics, loop diagrams, and P&IDs
    • Ensure compliance with electrical codes, safety standards, and plant LOTO procedures
  • Continuous Improvement & Projects
    • Identify opportunities to improve OEE, reliability, and process consistency through automation
    • Support capital projects involving new equipment, line upgrades, or controls modernization
    • Standardize controls architectures, programming practices, and documentation
    • Collaborate with vendors, integrators, and internal engineering teams
  • Food & Beverage Manufacturing Support
    • Ensure automation systems support
  • Food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
    • Participate in CIP/SIP automation, batching, and recipe management systems
    • Support traceability, alarms, data logging, and process controls critical to food production

Required Qualifications
  • Technical Skills
    • Strong working knowledge of PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent)
    • Experience with HMI/SCADA development and troubleshooting
    • Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems (480V/240V/120V controls, MCCs, VFDs)
    • Experience with process instrumentation and field device integration
    • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, P&IDs, and control narratives
Experience
  • Automation Technician:
    • 3-5 years of hands-on industrial automation and controls experience
    • Automation Engineer:
    • 5+ years of automation/controls experience, including system design and project support
    • Preferred experience in food & beverage, CPG, or regulated manufacturing environments

Education (preferred, not mandatory depending on level)
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
  • Equivalent hands-on experience will be considered in lieu of formal education

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with batching systems, recipe control, or continuous process automation
  • Familiarity with industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Modbus, etc.)
  • Experience supporting capital projects and equipment commissioning
  • Understanding of GMP, HACCP, and food safety requirements
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment

Soft Skills & Attributes
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering
  • Clear communicator with operators, technicians, and management
  • Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits
  • Comfortable supporting off-hours troubleshooting during critical production periods

Compensation
The salary for this role is $180,000-$200,000, depending heavily upon qualifications.
Benefits
Morning Star offers a top-tier, comprehensive health plan, including medical, dental, and vision, and we pay the full monthly premiums for the Colleague and all eligible family members. The company also contributes to Colleagues' Health Savings Accounts. Year-round Colleagues are eligible to enroll in our 401K plan, with 4% match.

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