1

Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in California

Controls and Automation Engineer Location: Burlingame, CA Department: Manufacturing Engineering Position Type: Full Time Compensation: About the Company Peak Energy is the first American venture to ...

Controls and Automation Engineer Location: Burlingame, CA Department: Manufacturing Engineering Position Type: Full Time Compensation: About the Company Peak Energy is the first American venture to ...

Controls and Automation Engineer Location: Burlingame, CA Department: Manufacturing Engineering Position Type: Full Time Compensation: About the Company Peak Energy is the first American venture to ...

Vast is looking for a(n) Controls & Automation Engineer II , reporting to the Manager, Controls & Automation , to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls And Automation Engineer information

What is a controls and automation engineer?

Controls and Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their main goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability by implementing control systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and robotics. They work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate hardware and software solutions, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure optimal operation of automated processes. These engineers play a vital role in modern industrial settings by enabling advanced automation and data-driven decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls and automation engineer?

To thrive as a Controls and Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial network protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges controls and automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing processes?

One common challenge Controls and Automation Engineers encounter is ensuring that new automation systems are compatible with existing legacy equipment and processes. This often requires careful planning, extensive testing, and sometimes custom interface development to avoid disruptions in production. Additionally, balancing the need for increased automation with maintaining system reliability and safety standards can be complex. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as IT, production, and maintenance, is crucial to address these integration hurdles effectively.

What is the difference between Controls And Automation Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls And Automation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or automation engineering; certifications like PLC programming or control system design are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and testing control systems in manufacturing, industrial, or automation settingsDesigning electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry in various industries
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process control industriesWidespread across power, construction, manufacturing, and consulting sectors

Controls And Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems and automation solutions, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in specialization and application areas.

What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Controls & Automation Engineer

Peak Energy

Burlingame, CA • On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls and Automation Engineer 

Location: Burlingame, CA 

Department: Manufacturing Engineering 

Position Type: Full Time 

Compensation:

About the Company 

Peak Energy is the first American venture to advance globally proven Sodium-Ion battery systems as the storage standard for the new era of renewable energy on a resilient grid. Sodium-Ion is cheap, readily available and safe, making it the leading contender in a rapidly evolving market. 

Our leadership team is powered by decades of expertise in scaling gigawatt-level innovation at world-class companies such as Tesla, Northvolt, SunPower, Fluence, and Enovix. We are backed by strategic investment and product partners such as TDK Ventures and Eclipse Ventures. 

We are a team of engineers, technicians, entrepreneurs, and partners driven by a shared ambition to set the new performance standard for renewable energy and grid resilience. 

About the Job 

Peak Energy is looking for a Controls and Automation Engineer to join our Manufacturing Engineering team supporting Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) manufacturing automation. This is an entry-level to junior-level, individual-contributor role focused on supporting the implementation, and maintenance of control systems and automation solutions that ensure the efficiency, safety, and quality of our battery products. 

You will work closely with senior Controls Engineers, Equipment Engineers, and Process Engineers to build hands-on experience with PLCs, SCADA, and HMI systems, developing into a more independent contributor as you grow with the team and Peak Energy scales production. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Support the programming and commissioning of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems for BESS manufacturing equipment, under the guidance of senior Controls Engineers. 
  • Partner with Equipment Engineers to help integrate automation solutions into new and existing manufacturing equipment. 
  • Help analyze production processes and identify opportunities for automation and control improvements. 
  • Support the implementation and upkeep of data acquisition systems, helping collect and organize production data for Process and Automation Engineers to analyze. 
  • Assist in maintaining safety systems, such as emergency shutdown procedures and safety interlocks. 
  • Troubleshoot control system issues on the manufacturing floor and perform routine maintenance to keep automation systems running reliably. 
  • Collaborate with Process Engineers, Equipment Engineers, and Maintenance to ensure control systems support production needs. 
  • Help maintain documentation of control system designs, revisions, and updates, and contribute to operator and maintenance training materials. 
  • Support efforts to keep control systems compliant with applicable industry, safety, and regulatory standards. 

Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls/Automation, or a related field), or equivalent practical experience. 
  • 0-2 years of experience in controls, automation, or a related engineering field; relevant internships, co-ops, or capstone projects are valued. 
  • Foundational knowledge of PLC programming, SCADA systems, and HMI design principles. 
  • Exposure to industrial automation platforms (e.g., Beckhoff TwinCAT, Allen-Bradley, or Siemens) through coursework or hands-on projects is a plus. 
  • Familiarity with data acquisition or historian platforms, such as Ignition by Inductive Automation, is a plus. 
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a willingness to learn and take direction from senior engineers. 
  • Clear communicator who works well in cross-functional teams. 
  • Eagerness to adapt to new technologies and grow technical skills in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. 
  • Basic understanding of environmental and safety regulations relevant to controls and automation in manufacturing. 

Peak Energy Core Values 

Speed Through Focus: Prioritize what matters most and execute quickly without distractions. 

Mission Over Self: Put the company's mission and team success ahead of individual interests. 

Face the Brutal Truth: Embrace honesty, even when it's uncomfortable, to make informed decisions. 

Be a Good Person: Treat everyone with respect and integrity, fostering a positive and ethical work environment. 

The salary range for this role is $120,000 - $180,000, with actual pay varying based on work location, experience, and skills. At Peak Energy, we value our employees and promote work-life balance. Our competitive benefits package includes unlimited PTO, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a strong 401(k) plan, and equity opportunities. Join us to thrive in a supportive environment while making a meaningful impact in the energy sector! 

At Peak Energy Technologies Inc., we believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace makes us a more capable, innovative, and competitive company. We welcome people who represent diversity in their backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and experiences. Peak Energy Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, aiming to reach our company's full potential by cultivating an inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, marital or family status, disability, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.