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Automation Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Automation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

The Reliability & Maintenance Engineering (RME) team are the business partners that work tirelessly ... About the Role: As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing ...

The Automation Engineering team at Parabola is the conduit through which our largest and most strategic accounts pass through on their way to unlocking the maximum value from our product. Beginning ...

The Reliability & Maintenance Engineering (RME) team are the business partners that work tirelessly ... As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Thousand Oaks, CA · On-site

$109K - $143K/yr

Apply sound engineering principles to resolve complex issues and lead projects from concept through ... Provide automation oncall support as part of a 24/7 operation. * Execute and comply with ...

Automation Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Engineering Overview A leading advanced electronics manufacturing organization is seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer (Mechanical) to support the design, development, and implementation of ...

New

The Regional Engineering Automation Lead role is core of Bechtel's data-centric execution strategy and digital delivery of the project's Engineering BSAPs and SCPs, including 3D modeling, P&ID ...

The Reliability & Maintenance Engineering (RME) team are the business partners that work tirelessly ... As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and ...

Automation Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience) * 7+ years of experience in test automation, CI/CD, or ...

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Automation Engineering information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.9K

How much do automation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineering 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior automation engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in robotics, control systems, or software development, can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often occurs in industries like aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, or large technology firms, particularly for those in leadership roles or with advanced certifications and expertise in automation tools and programming languages.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within automation engineering, but it is unlikely to fully replace automation engineers. These professionals design, implement, and maintain complex systems that require human expertise, problem-solving, and adaptation. Skills in programming, control systems, and troubleshooting remain essential in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by automation engineers when implementing new systems, and how can they be addressed?

Automation engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation solutions with legacy equipment, ensuring system reliability, and managing project timelines. Effective communication with cross-functional teams—including IT, production, and maintenance—is crucial to address compatibility issues and minimize downtime. Staying proactive with documentation, thorough testing, and continuous learning helps overcome these obstacles and ensures smooth implementation of automation projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, control systems, and robotics, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, working in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, or technology, and may require advanced certifications and a strong track record of project success.

What is automation engineering?

Automation engineering is a field that focuses on designing, developing, and implementing systems and technologies to automate processes in manufacturing, production, and other industries. Automation engineers work with hardware, software, and control systems to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability while reducing human intervention. Their work often involves programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated equipment and processes.

What is the difference between Automation Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectAutomation EngineeringElectrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or related fields; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilities, automation system designPower plants, electrical systems, electronics labs, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications
Common Search/ComparisonAutomation Engineering vs Electrical Engineering

Automation Engineering focuses on designing and implementing automated systems and control processes in manufacturing and industrial settings. Electrical Engineering covers a broader range of electrical systems, power distribution, and electronics. While both roles require technical knowledge, Automation Engineers specialize in control systems, sensors, and automation software, whereas Electrical Engineers work more with electrical circuits, power systems, and electronics design.

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 background in engineering principles, programming, and process control, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and certifications like ISA or Siemens are commonly required technical proficiencies. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills that set outstanding automation engineers apart. These skills and qualifications are essential to design, implement, and maintain efficient automated systems that improve productivity and ensure operational reliability.

What does an automation engineer do?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software testing, or other repetitive tasks. They use tools like PLCs, robotics, and scripting languages to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort, often working with cross-disciplinary teams and requiring knowledge of control systems and programming. Their work helps optimize production, quality, and safety in various industries.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Automation Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Automation Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Automation Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineering job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,723 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Senior Automation Engineer

Senior Automation Engineer

Amazon

San Diego, CA • On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 6,839 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Operations is at the heart of Amazon's business. We are known for our speed, accuracy, and exceptional service. Our buildings deliver tens of thousands of products to hundreds of countries worldwide, every day. The Reliability & Maintenance Engineering (RME) team are the business partners that work tirelessly behind the scenes to make it happen. We drive continuous improvement, and maintain all the robotics and material handling equipment (MHE) to ensure our customers are met with the Amazon smile. Come join us on our journey!
About the Role:
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 technical support. Your expertise will be essential in troubleshooting complex control systems, analyzing performance metrics, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You'll mentor junior engineers and lead cross-functional teams to optimize material handling equipment (MHE) systems, implement innovative projects, and develop system design improvements to enhance site throughput. You'll work with state-of-the-art technology, including conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, and SCADA devices and programs. Through your technical leadership and design optimization efforts, you'll directly contribute to ensuring our customers receive their orders with Amazon's signature speed and accuracy while building team capabilities and driving operational excellence.
What Do We Offer?
Amazon offers competitive compensation packages including comprehensive healthcare benefits starting on Day 1, matching 401(k) program, and up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave. But wait, there's more: We provide lightweight fire-resistant daily wear and composite toe safety shoes for your safety!
Key job responsibilities
Key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- You will apply Subject Matter Expertise (SME) on troubleshooting and dive deeps for engineering issues, supporting automation engineers to investigate the root cause and planning actions to eliminate/mitigate the downtime of critical assets
- You will collaborate with building Operations, Operations Engineering teams, FC Start-up Team, AFT Software teams, ACES team, and Safety to support MHE systems optimization and project implementation
- You will understand, maintain and troubleshoot material handling control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems
- You will monitor MHE metrics and partner with maintenance/operations to address system performance issues and provide analysis across all operations
- You will provide escalation support to automation engineers, during and after business hours, troubleshooting locally and remotely, to ensure that all hardware or controls software within the building is repaired on time
- You must be able to move up to 49lbs, stand and walk during shifts lasting up to 12 hours, climb ladders and gangways safely and without limitation, as well as perform regular bending, lifting, stretching, and reaching both below the waist and above the head
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 4+ years of PLC programming or automation engineering experience
- Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays
- 4+ years of process or production environment related PLC-controlled automation and issue diagnosis experience
- 4+ years of robotics work cells and control systems experience
- 4+ years of Siemens, Allen-Bradley or Codesys Ladder Logic and structure programming experience
- 4+ years of electrical theory, robotics, controls components, and automated equipment experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent
- Master's degree, or Six Sigma Black Belt certification
- Experience leading controls in manufacturing or complex industrial environments
- Experience identifying, maintaining, troubleshooting, and modifying Motor Controls including motor starters, Variable Frequency Drives, DC drives, and standard electrical components
- Experience interpreting and modifying mechanical and electrical drawings
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Los Angeles County applicants: Job duties for this position include: work safely and cooperatively with other employees, supervisors, and staff; adhere to standards of excellence despite stressful conditions; communicate effectively and respectfully with employees, supervisors, and staff to ensure exceptional customer service; and follow all federal, state, and local laws and Company policies. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, effectively manage stress and work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness and professionalism, and safeguard business operations and the Company's reputation. Pursuant to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you're applying in isn't listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, CA, San Diego - 114,000.00 - 148,200.00 USD annually

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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US