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Control System Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cleanwater1, Inc

Lead Control System Engineer

Ripon, CA

$98K - $120K/yr

... Control panels and factory automation systems. ICS works with both end users and leading original ... ICS is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with strong SCADA and PLC expertise to join our ...

Cleanwater1, Inc.

Lead Control System Engineer

Ripon, CA · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

... Control panels and factory automation systems. ICS works with both end users and leading original ... ICS is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with strong SCADA and PLC expertise to join our ...

Apple

Control System Integration Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

This engineer will build capabilities to assess performance of control system prototypes and associated sub-components. This includes developing methods, instrumentation and test software to assess ...

Apple

Control System Integration Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$147K - $272K/yr

This engineer will build capabilities to assess performance of control system prototypes and associated sub-components. This includes developing methods, instrumentation and test software to assess ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved in determining requirements and specifications for control systems, systems-level analysis and modeling of control systems, developing robust ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved in determining requirements and specifications for control systems, systems-level analysis and modeling of control systems, developing robust ...

Pi Square Technologies LLC

System Engineer

Dublin, CA · On-site

We are seeking a Systems Engineer with strong experience in Embedded Development, Systems ... Develop control algorithms and system models using MATLAB/Simulink and related tools. * Collaborate ...

Infotech Spectrum

System Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Sunnyvale, CA (Need Locals) Duration : 6+ Months Experience developing and programming of control systems for complex hardware systems Experience in programming real-time motion control systems ...

LLNL

Control Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

With over 60,000 control points distributed throughout the facility, many of NIF's subsystems have ... You will contribute to the engineering design and development of new hardware and system upgrades ...

LLNL

Control Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

With over 60,000 control points distributed throughout the facility, many of NIF's subsystems have ... You will contribute to the engineering design and development of new hardware and system upgrades ...

LLNL

Control Systems Engineer

Livermore, CA

With over 60,000 control points distributed throughout the facility, many of NIF's subsystems have ... You will contribute to the engineering design and development of new hardware and system upgrades ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

$181K - $318K/yr

Description As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved in determining requirements and specifications for control systems, systems-level analysis and modeling of control systems ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$171K - $302K/yr

Description As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved in determining requirements and specifications for control systems, systems-level analysis and modeling of control systems ...

Apple

Sr. Control System Integration Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$196K - $203K/yr

This engineer will build capabilities to assess performance of control system prototypes and associated sub-components. This includes developing methods, instrumentation and test software to assess ...

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All JobsControl System Engineer JobsControl System Engineer Jobs in California

Control System Engineer information

See California salary details

$60.2K

$107.4K

$173.2K

How much do control system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for control system engineer in California is $107,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control System Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Control System Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with control theory and system design. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, MATLAB/Simulink, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills are essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable automation systems that optimize performance and safety in various industries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior control system engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or large-scale manufacturing. Such roles often involve leadership responsibilities, complex project management, and working with advanced control technologies and software tools.

What are Control System Engineers?

Control System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that manage, regulate, and automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They use principles of engineering, mathematics, and computer science to ensure that machinery and processes operate efficiently, safely, and within desired parameters. Their work often involves programming controllers, integrating sensors and actuators, and troubleshooting complex automated systems.

What does a control system engineer do?

A control system engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They analyze system requirements, create control algorithms, and use tools like PLCs and SCADA systems to ensure efficient and safe operation. Strong knowledge of engineering principles, programming, and system testing is essential for this role.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control System Engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can increase with specialized skills in automation, PLC programming, and certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST).

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Control System Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or oil and gas. Senior engineers with leadership roles, specialized expertise, and working in competitive markets are more likely to achieve this level of compensation.

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

AspectControl System EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; certifications like CSCP or ISABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain control systems in manufacturing, energy, or industrial settingsDesign and implement automated systems and processes in manufacturing or production environments
Industry UsageCommonly employed in industries requiring control systems such as oil & gas, manufacturing, and utilitiesUsed in industries focusing on process automation, robotics, and production efficiency

Control System Engineers and Automation Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and certifications. While Control System Engineers focus on designing and maintaining control systems, Automation Engineers concentrate on implementing automated processes. Both roles are vital in industrial settings, often overlapping but with distinct primary responsibilities.

What are some common challenges Control System Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Control System Engineers frequently collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds. One of the main challenges is ensuring smooth communication and integration across these disciplines, as each team may have different priorities, terminologies, and workflows. Additionally, coordinating timelines and requirements to align control system design with hardware and software constraints can be complex. Proactive communication, clear documentation, and regular cross-team meetings help overcome these hurdles and ensure project success.
What cities in California are hiring for Control System Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Control System Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Control System Engineer jobs in CA? For Control System Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Control System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Control System Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,351 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Lead Control System Engineer

Cleanwater1, Inc

Ripon, CA

$98K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

ICS Online. (“ICS”) is an industry leader in the manufacturing of custom Industrial Control panels and factory automation systems. ICS works with both end users and leading original equipment manufacturers in a variety of industries. These industries include but are not limited to, water and wastewater treatment, energy generation and storage, semiconductor, food and beverage processing and packaging, and factory automation. ICS is part of Cleanwater1 and through its various operating subsidiaries, is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing companies in the water infrastructure market.
ICS is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with strong SCADA and PLC expertise to join our engineering team. This is a full-time role supporting the design, development, and implementation of industrial automation and SCADA systems. The ideal candidate is technically strong, hands-on, and collaborative, with experience working across the full lifecycle of automation projects.
Essential Job Functions
  • Define functional requirements through client workshops and documentation analysis
  • Develop detailed system designs and integration architectures
  • Program, configure, test, and troubleshoot SCADA (Ignition) and PLC systems
  • Install and configure Ignition SCADA including architecture, licensing, scripting, reporting, and database transactions
  • Develop and maintain templates and User Defined Types (UDTs)
  • Work within server-client architectures and distributed systems
  • Perform code development, testing, and validation for automation systems
  • Coordinate and execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
  • Troubleshoot communication networks and industrial protocols
  • Support commissioning and post-installation system performance
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and clients for successful project delivery
  • Maintain flexibility to contribute across all phases of SCADA development
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree (4-year) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Chemical Engineering
  • 5–8 years of experience in industrial automation and controls engineering
  • Hands-on experience with ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs, as well as Ignition SCADA (including Perspective and Vision modules) and MES systems such as Rockwell/Allen-Bradley and Siemens
  • Experience with Ignition platform including installation, configuration, system architecture, licensing, scripting (Python), reporting, and database transactions
  • Strong knowledge of communication protocols including OPC (UA amp; DA), TCP/IP, UDP, and XML
  • Experience developing and troubleshooting templates and User Defined Types (UDTs)
  • Experience working within server-client architectures and distributed systems
  • Proven ability in code development, testing, and system validation
  • Industrial networking experience including Modbus TCP, Ethernet/IP, and TCP/IP
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline
  • Experience in water/wastewater or industrial process environments
  • Strong background in MES integrations
  • Advanced troubleshooting across SCADA, PLCs, and network systems
  • Experience working in full lifecycle automation project environments
Physical Demands
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel, talk and hear, and use fingers and hands to feel objects, tools or controls.
  • Ability to perform work in a standing, stooping, sitting or bending position for extended periods of time.
  • Must have manual dexterity to operate the equipment and tools required for this position.
  • Must be able to quickly respond (with hand, finger or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it responds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 40 lbs.
  • Ability to look at computer monitors for much of the workday.
Work Environment
  • Approximately 60% Office.
  • Approximately 40% Light Industrial - May be exposed to areas of high noise levels, hazardous propellants, chemicals and industrial facilities. Appropriate PPE and training will be provided for all conditions.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing 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 notice.
This is an exempt position. Compensation is dependent on skill level. The base salary range for this position is between $98,000 and $120,000 per year. Benefits package and incentives are provided. We generally offer employees working 21 hours per work or more medical, dental, vision, along with voluntary ancillary benefits. The Company has a 401(k)-match program and has company-paid life and AD amp;D insurance available for eligible employees.
Cleanwater1, Inc. and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
The Cleanwater1, inc. California Employee Privacy Notice is available at https://cleanwater1.com/privacy-policy.
Cleanwater1, inc. and its affiliated subsidiaries maintain a drug-free workplace.

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