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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

K&K Technical

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

PLC Design & Programming * Create and modify PLC programs using: * Studio 5000 * RSLinx * IAB * MPE720 * PCwin * Memosoft * Simatic Step 7 * Support controls programming across Allen-Bradley, Siemens ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$46 - $51/hr

PLC programming experience with Rockwell, Mitsubishi, and Siemens platforms. * Electrical hardware ... Equivalent work experience in controls engineering and industrial automation. Founded in 2010 and ...

City Brewing Co

Controls Engineer

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed ... Design and program all aspects of PLC/HMI software for packaging equipment * Test and debug control ...

New

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ... Understanding of Allen Bradley PLC systems and programming. * Experience with control communication ...

SpaceX

Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

AUTOMATION AND CONTROLS ENGINEER (STARSHIP) As an Automation and Controls Engineer, you will be ... Experience with PLC programming (Siemens SIMATIC structured text programming) * Siemens G120, S120 ...

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ... Understanding of Allen Bradley PLC systems and programming. * Experience with control communication ...

SpaceX

Automation & Controls Engineer (Starship)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$84K - $109K/yr

AUTOMATION AND CONTROLS ENGINEER (STARSHIP) As an Automation and Controls Engineer, you will be ... Experience with PLC programming (Siemens SIMATIC structured text programming) * Siemens G120, S120 ...

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All JobsControls Engineer Plc Programming JobsControls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

Controls Engineer Plc Programming information

See Santa Ana, CA salary details

$57.2K

$100.5K

$136.3K

How much do controls engineer plc programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer plc programming in Santa Ana, CA is $100,493.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,900.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in PLC programming, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and industrial control systems, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), HMI/SCADA systems, and programming languages like ladder logic is essential, and certifications like Siemens Certified Programmer or Rockwell Automation credentials are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you design, troubleshoot, and collaborate on complex automation projects. These skills ensure reliable, safe, and efficient system operation, which is critical for manufacturing productivity and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Plc Programming vs Controls Engineer Electrical Design?

AspectControls Engineer Plc ProgrammingControls Engineer Electrical Design
Primary FocusDeveloping and implementing PLC control programsDesigning electrical systems and control panels
Skills & CertificationsPLC programming, ladder logic, automation softwareElectrical schematics, CAD, electrical codes
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilitiesEngineering offices, manufacturing sites
Industry UsageAutomation, process controlElectrical system design, machinery

Controls Engineer Plc Programming primarily focuses on creating and troubleshooting PLC control software, while Controls Engineer Electrical Design emphasizes designing electrical systems and schematics. Both roles require technical skills in electrical systems, but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are the typical challenges faced when working as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming?

Controls Engineers specializing in PLC programming often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automation systems under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components. They may also need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production staff, to implement solutions efficiently. Staying updated on industry standards and maintaining strong documentation practices are essential for long-term project success and career growth.

What does a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming do?

A Controls Engineer with expertise in PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems used in manufacturing and industrial environments. They program PLCs to monitor and control machinery, ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. This role often involves troubleshooting system issues, integrating new automation technologies, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Santa Ana, CA? For Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Santa Ana, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Santa Ana, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Santa Ana, CA are:
What cities near Santa Ana, CA are hiring for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs? Cities near Santa Ana, CA with the most Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings:
Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs near you

Controls Engineer

K&K Technical

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Controls EngineerLocation

Onsite – Industrial Manufacturing / Stamping Operations
Travel Required – Canada, Mexico, and Customer Sites

1480725

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to support electrical design, PLC programming, commissioning, and automation upgrades for mechanical and hydraulic stamping presses.

This role is responsible for the complete controls lifecycle including HMI development, PLC and Safety PLC programming, electrical hardware design, panel layouts, field device layouts, risk assessments, installation supervision, and full-line commissioning.

The ideal candidate brings strong industrial automation experience with the ability to lead electrical and controls efforts from concept through startup in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesHMI Design

  • Create new HMI programs using GP-Pro software on Proface hardware.

  • Modify and enhance existing HMI programs.

  • Validate HMI functionality during customer buyoffs and commissioning.

PLC Design & Programming

  • Create and modify PLC programs using:

    • Studio 5000

    • RSLinx

    • IAB

    • MPE720

    • PCwin

    • Memosoft

    • Simatic Step 7

  • Support controls programming across Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Toyopuc, and Yaskawa platforms.

  • Review and validate PLC logic during customer acceptance testing.

Safety PLC Design

  • Develop and modify Safety PLC programs using Allen-Bradley and Siemens safety systems.

  • Validate machine safety logic during commissioning and buyoff activities.

  • Ensure compliance with industrial safety standards.

Electrical & Hardware Design

  • Create and modify electrical hardwire layouts using AutoCAD Electrical and IAB.

  • Develop panel layouts and field device layouts.

  • Support electrical hardware selection and system modifications.

  • Review and confirm electrical designs during customer buyoffs.

Risk Assessments

  • Conduct risk assessments related to:

    • Hardware selection

    • Installation timing

    • Project planning

    • Equipment upgrades

  • Support mitigation planning and safe implementation strategies.

Installation Supervision

  • Supervise engineers, electricians, and millwrights during installation activities.

  • Provide technical direction during equipment upgrades.

  • Resolve field installation challenges in real time.

Full Line Commissioning

  • Support complete line startup and commissioning.

  • Troubleshoot PLC, electrical, mechanical, and controls systems.

  • Validate equipment performance and production readiness.

  • Provide startup support before, during, and after installation.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related field; OR equivalent hands-on experience.

  • Strong PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi preferred).

  • AutoCAD Electrical experience.

  • Electrical hardware design and modification experience.

  • Experience with industrial equipment installation and co

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