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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Santa Ana, CA

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Senior Controls Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

PLC logic and electrical schematic design for integrating system operation, motion control, laser ... programming and control, machine vision (Cognex, Keyence), data collection and analysis, file ...

Clean Energy

Controls Engineer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... PLC and HMI design and programming for industrial equipment for machine control, design and ... Controls costs and thinks in terms of profit, loss and added value. Is committed to the ...

Clean Energy Fuels

Controls Engineer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

... PLC and HMI design and programming for industrial equipment for machine control, design and ... Controls costs and thinks in terms of profit, loss and added value. Is committed to the ...

Albertsons

PLC Controls Mechanic

Commerce, CA

$49.50/hr

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

New

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Experience with Allen Bradley PLC Hardware/Software, Variable speed drives, hydraulics, pneumatics ... Collaborate with engineering staff to prepare controlled documents in support of the start-up ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA

$86K - $111K/yr

Experience with Allen Bradley PLC Hardware/Software, Variable speed drives, hydraulics, pneumatics ... Collaborate with engineering staff to prepare controlled documents in support of the start-up ...

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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 9, 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:
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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

Sr. Automation & Controls Engineer (Components)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SR. AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER (COMPONENTS)
SpaceX's Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy booster (collectively referred to as Starship) represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. Starship will be the world's most powerful launch vehicle ever developed, with the ability to carry in excess of 100 metric tons to Earth orbit. We are looking for an automation & controls engineer to help SpaceX develop and build a great variety of automated solutions for Starship Production. This role will be hands-on in designing and activating hardware and software systems for the machines that make up the Starship production and machining line.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits
  • Lay out new industrial electrical control panels that are NFPA79/NEC/UL508A compliant and create electrical, pneumatic, and fluid schematics
  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code, emphasizing generating organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code for manufacturing applications
  • Develop robot systems to aid in the automated manufacturing of various vehicle sub-components
  • Implement (ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant) control reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots, gantries, conveyors, and other manufacturing equipment
  • Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
  • Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatic and fluid plumbing
  • Select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as servo motors and controllers
  • Deploy automated processes and equipment into production
  • Set, implement, and maintain schedules and budgets to ensure project completion

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering, physics, or computer science discipline
  • 5+ years experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Process integration and electromechanical/mechatronic systems experience
  • Experience in a variety of robotic weld applications (Kuka, ABB & Fanuc)
  • Robot and PLC simulation experience
  • Experience working with National Instruments software and hardware
  • Electrical schematic CAD experience using EPlan
  • C#, .NET, Python and/or SQL experience
  • PLC programming experience, preferably Siemens TIA Portal & Beckhoff TwinCat 3
  • HMI and SCADA programming experience
  • Field bus networks, serial communication and Ethernet communication
  • Hands-on experience building and commissioning high quality electrical control panels and electro-mechanical systems
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A codes
  • Exposure to a wide variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (vision systems, dispense systems, temperature controllers, laser distance sensors, Nut-Runners, etc.)
  • Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
  • Experience in fast-paced iterative design and manufacturing environments
  • Experience solving complex problems with little to no supervision on schedule as an individual or as a member of an integrated team.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed to support critical milestones

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Automation & Controls Engineer/Senior: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

What SpaceX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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