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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Vast

Controls and Automation Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

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 ...

Vast

Controls and Automation Engineer II

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$120K - $171K/yr

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 ...

Danone

Automation Engineer Manager

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

This person will be an engineering professional with hands-on experience in Automation and Controls ... Understand and document current Automation and Controls Systems, identify areas for improvement ...

Danone

Automation Engineer Manager

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

This person will be an engineering professional with hands-on experience in Automation and Controls ... Understand and document current Automation and Controls Systems, identify areas for improvement ...

PM Group

Automation Engineer

Irvine, CA

$102K - $120K/yr

The Automation Controls Engineer is responsible for ensuring that manufacturing processes and utilities are maintained and operating efficiently. This individual will be leading the maintenance of ...

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All JobsControls And Automation Engineer JobsControls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$49.4K

$105.4K

$150.8K

How much do controls and automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Irvine, CA is $105,392.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,600.00 and $118,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA?

For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:

Controls And Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,392 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Controls and Automation Engineer II

Vast

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

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 of human-rated space stations.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Develop and maintain a data acquisition and controls stack to support a wide range of partnering test teams at the Long Beach site-creating software tools and setting standards for test assets and practices.
  • Design, implement, and own complex control systems for testing space-rated hardware, with responsibility for both hardware and software components.
  • Collaborate across disciplines-including software, thermal, manufacturing, propulsion, ECLSS, and mechanical test teams-to drive robust testing practices, gather upgrade requests, and define new capabilities for the test stack.
  • Troubleshoot and debug test assets to resolve issues quickly and ensure optimal test system performance.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or other engineering discipline. 
  • 3+ years of applied experience with programmable logic controllers or similar embedded systems.
  • Working knowledge of supporting engineering skills (Wire Harnessing, electrical diagrams, signal processing).

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • 2+ years of experience with TwinCat programming and Beckhoff hardware.
  • 2+ years of professional experience testing, troubleshooting and debugging mechanical, electrical, and software issues. 
  • Coding proficiency in one or more languages (Python, C#, C++, JS, ST, etc.)
  • Working knowledge of version control (Git, GitLab) and software development.
  • Working knowledge of  instrumentation selection.
  • Familiarity with  the processes behind spaceflight testing (ATP/QTP).
  • Understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherCAT, Profinet, etc) 
  • Understanding of industrial standards (UL508A, NFPA 70, ISO 13849, etc).

Additional Requirements:

  • Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
  • Ability to lift up to 25lbs unassisted.

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