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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Tracy, CA

Lead Control System Engineer

Ripon, CA ยท Remote

$98K - $120K/hr

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 ...

Lead Control System Engineer

Ripon, CA ยท On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

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 ...

... PLC programming or automation engineering experience - Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area ... controls components, and automated equipment experience - Travel up to 80% of the time PREFERRED ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Tracy, CA ยท On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

... PLC programming or automation engineering experience - Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area ... controls components, and automated equipment experience PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Master's degree ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Engineer Plc Programming information

See Tracy, CA salary details

$59.2K

$104K

$141K

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 Tracy, CA is $103,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,900.00 and $116,300.00 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 Tracy, CA? For Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Tracy, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Tracy, CA are hiring for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs? Cities near Tracy, CA with the most Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings:

Engineer l, Automation and Controls

Novate Solutions Inc

Livermore, CA โ€ข On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

Novate Solutions, Inc. is an Industrial Technology Services firm with 20+ years of providing professional engineering design, turnkey project implementation, and support services for the technology that runs industrial production facilities. Our clients are large scale industrial facilities that rely on us for our expertise and high-quality implementation of process control systems, information software, instrumentation, industrial networks, SCADA, measurement, inspection, motion, and state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 technologies.

Novate is currently looking for an Engineer l, Automation and Controls to join our Automation Team at our location in Livermore, CA. This individual must have the ability to be client facing, have general awareness of multiple industrial environments, provide support initiative and be extremely organized. The ideal individual is curious with an investigative mindset, wants to resolve complex issues and problems, is a team player and works well under pressure in a fast-paced environment. If you are looking for a role that will provide exciting challenges with an opportunity for continuous learning from industry veterans, Novate Solutions is interested in you.

To be successful in this role, the ideal individual must:

  • Be an effective communicator both verbally and in writing.
  • Be a self-starter, driven to take initiative and is highly self-motivated.
  • Be well organized with attention to detail and time management skills.
  • Have the ability to work independently.


Responsibilities:

  • Conceptualize, detail, and implement control systems for industrial processes.
  • Provide PAC/PLC and HMI/SCADA configuration and programming.
  • Develop controls system documentation ex. Sequence of Operations, Factory Acceptance Test and Site Acceptance Test.
  • Perform Factory and Site commissioning (FAT/SAT).
  • Lead multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Manage and delegate automation engineering tasks accurately, on schedule and on budget.
  • Provide engineering support and expertise as needed to support automation systems developed in house as well as developed by others.

Requirements

Required Skills and Experience:

  • Minimum seven (7) years' experience of verifiable PAC/PLC and SCADA/DCS programming to deliver turnkey automation solutions to industrial applications.
  • Proficient PLC/PAC programming: Rockwell Automation, Studio 5000.
  • Proficient SCADA programming:
    • Inductive Automation, Ignition Vision platform
    • Factory Talk View SE
  • Ability to type 35+ WPM corrected.
  • Ability to travel regionally or out of state.

Additional Skills that are Desirable:

  • Experience in operation or engineering work within large scale industry (food, semi-conductor, petro-chemical, biotech, mining, etc.)
  • Exposure to multiple SCADA platforms: Aveva System Platform (Wonderware) InduSoft.
  • Database scripting, SQL query generation for MS SQL, MySQL or Oracle.
  • Exposure and experience with multiple PLC manufacturers and platforms.
  • AutoCAD experience in the controls engineering field.
  • C++/C# development and troubleshooting.
  • Electrical design experience
  • Basic understanding of Industrial Ethernet networks.
  • Registered Professional Engineer.
  • ISA Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • Project management experience.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program or equivalent combination of education and industry experience.

License/Certifications:

  • Valid CA driver's license
  • California Professional Engineer (PE)

Competencies:

  • Communication
  • Results Driven
  • Critical Thinking
  • Work Independently

Physical Demands:

  • The ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching and crawling into confined spaces.
  • Climb stairs and ladders to access automation equipment, instrumentation and controls.

Travel Requirement:

  • Ability to travel frequently regionally and out of state. Travel up to 25%.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance:

  • Ability to pass a DOD security level background check.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent U.S. Resident.

Benefits

  • Paid vacation
  • 401(k)
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Health and vision insurance
  • HRA
  • Wellness benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Identity theft protection

Growth opportunity ladder at Novate Solutions, Inc. (sub-discipline Automation & Controls)

  • Senior Engineer, ll
  • Senior Engineer, l
  • Engineer, lV
  • Engineer, III
  • Engineer, II
  • Engineer, I
  • Associate Engineer lV
  • Associate Engineer lll
  • Associate Engineer l
  • Associate Engineer l

Equal Opportunity Employer