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Automation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JSat Automation

Sr Automation Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $157K/yr

JSat Automation is hiring a Senior/ Lead Automation Engineer with Emerson DeltaV and Syncade experience. Requirements * Proven experience as a Senior Automation Engineer with increased levels of ...

JSat Automation

Automation Engineer - Sr Level

Glendale, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsAutomation JobsAutomation Jobs in California

Automation information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$115.1K

$167.3K

How much do automation jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation in California is $115,080.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What 3 jobs will not be replaced by AI?

Automation jobs that require complex human interaction, such as healthcare professionals, mental health counselors, and skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, are less likely to be fully replaced by AI. These roles depend on emotional intelligence, manual dexterity, and critical thinking that AI cannot replicate fully. While AI can assist, these jobs typically require human judgment and adaptability.

What is the difference between Automation vs Robotics Technician?

AspectAutomationRobotics Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in PLC programming, control systems, or automation softwareRequires certifications or training in robotics, electronics, and mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation system integrationWorks on robotic systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting in similar industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed broadly across manufacturing, automotive, and process industriesSpecialized in robotic system installation, repair, and programming within those industries

Automation professionals focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems, while Robotics Technicians specialize in robotic hardware, troubleshooting, and repair. Both roles often overlap but differ in technical focus and certifications required.

What is automation and what does an automation professional do?

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. Automation professionals design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in various industries, such as manufacturing, IT, and business operations. Their work often involves programming, configuring control systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. The goal is to improve productivity, reduce errors, and lower operational costs.

What are careers in automation?

Careers in automation involve designing, developing, and maintaining systems that perform tasks with minimal human intervention, often using robotics, control systems, and software programming. Common roles include automation engineer, control systems technician, and robotics programmer, which typically require knowledge of programming languages, engineering principles, and relevant certifications. These careers are prevalent in manufacturing, technology, and industrial sectors, offering opportunities for problem-solving and process optimization.

What Is the Job Outlook for Careers in the Automation Industry?

Automation is a fast-growing field, and demand for people with advanced qualifications is high. Jobs in automation primarily fall into three categories: designing and building automated machines, maintaining these machines, and programming automation software. Many jobs in this field require a significant amount of industrial engineering or robotics experience. Fulfilling job responsibilities in this industry often requires engineering, math, and communication skills as well as familiarity with programming. Someone in this field may also need to be familiar with electrical systems, delivery pipelines, configuration management tools, networking, or databases to get a job in this industry.

What does an automation job do?

An automation job involves designing, developing, and maintaining systems that perform tasks automatically to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Professionals in this field often work with tools like scripting languages, robotics, or software platforms to streamline processes across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by automation professionals when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Automation professionals often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy systems and new automation tools, ensuring minimal downtime during transitions, and maintaining data integrity. Additionally, coordinating with IT and operations teams is crucial to address security concerns and user training needs. Being proactive in communication and thorough in planning helps to streamline integration and minimize disruptions.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong foundation in programming, process control, and systems integration, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and scripting languages, as well as certifications such as ISA or Siemens, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing efficient automated processes, minimizing errors, and ensuring operational reliability.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of automation, roles such as automation engineers or specialists can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience in programming, scripting, and tools like PLCs or robotic process automation software. These positions often require technical skills and certifications but not necessarily a college degree.
More about Automation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation jobs in California? The most popular types of Automation jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation jobs in California? For Automation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Automation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Automation jobs? Cities in California with the most Automation job openings:
Automation jobs near you
Automation Validation Engineer

Automation Validation Engineer

JSat Automation

San Diego, CA • On-site

$75K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Description
JSat Automation is hiring an Automation Validation Engineer for their San Diego Office. This position may travel up to 40% to client sites.
This Engineer will be responsible for the following
  • Design and develop manufacturing control systems in support of process operations.
  • Interact with client personnel to identify and analyze continuous improvement through automation upgrades.
  • Develop validation documents per FDA cGMP and GAMP standards, functional specifications, design specifications and requirements trace matrices.
  • Design, program, test and validate process control automation systems.
  • Prepare and execute validation protocols (AIQ, IQ, OQ) for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance per FDA requirements
  • Manage, document, and implement these upgrades through changes control procedures.
  • Execute capital projects including but not limited to:
  • Control system software development
  • Control system hardware design
  • Network design
  • MES system implementation
  • Recipe management
  • User requirement specification development
  • Process equipment installations.
  • SOP development and training on Automation Systems.
  • Troubleshoot, analyze, and resolve field control system issues.
  • Develop, review, and / or execute automation qualification and validation protocols.
  • Design, develop, and implement technical solutions by establishing integration strategies, configuring and programming PLCs, DCSs as well as design, build, install and integrate automation control system hardware, panels and field devices.
  • Up to 40% travel to client sites

Requirements
  • We require a minimum BS Degree in Engineering (Computer Science, Electronics, Electrical, Chemical, etc.) or equivalent with 0 to 7 months experience in process industry.
  • Experience in Control Systems (Emerson DeltaV, Allen Bradley, Foxboro, Siemens, Honeywell). Experience with SCADA, MES, and database systems, or computer system validation are considered a plus.

Benefits
Salary DOE: The pay range for this position is $75k - $125k 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..

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