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Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gehl Food & Beverage

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team? * Full benefits package - medical, dental, vision & 401(k) match * Generous PTO & holidays * Growth ...

California Natural Products

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team? * Full benefits package - medical, dental, vision & 401(k) match * Generous PTO & holidays * Growth ...

Gehl Food & Beverage

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team? * Full benefits package - medical, dental, vision & 401(k) match * Generous PTO & holidays * Growth ...

Automationtechies

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects. In this role, you'll design ...

Automationtechies

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects. In this role, you'll design ...

AlfaTech

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most innovative, energy efficient, and sustainable solutions to every project, with a focus on our collective ...

AlfaTech

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most innovative, energy efficient, and sustainable solutions to every project, with a focus on our collective ...

AlfaTech

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer About Us Our mission is to always put our clients first by offering the most innovative, energy efficient, and sustainable solutions to every project, with a focus on our collective ...

Pacific Coast Producers

Controls Engineer

Woodland, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, you'll combine technical expertise and project management skills to develop, implement, and support automation and control solutions that improve equipment reliability ...

City Brewing Co

Controls Engineer

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed equipment throughout our production and warehousing spaces. This individual will work in a variety of ...

Aston Carter

Controls Engineer

Arbuckle, CA · On-site

$43.27 - $45.67/hr

Controls Engineer | Hybrid Opportunity Join a growing automation team where you'll work directly alongside an Advanced level Controls Engineer on projects that improve manufacturing operations across ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · Hybrid

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops, and implements control systems to meet integrated machine requirements and customer specifications.

City Brewing Co

Controls Engineer

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$110 - $130/hr

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed equipment throughout our production and warehousing spaces. This individual will work in a variety of ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops, and implements control systems to meet integrated machine requirements and customer specifications.

Belcan

Contract Controls Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$60 - $71.87/hr

Contract Controls Engineer Location: Santa Cruz, CA Zip Code: 95060 Start Date: Right Away Job Type: Contract Pay Rate: $60 - $71.87/hr. Keywords: #ContractControlsEngineer #SantaCruzJobs #PCBA We ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in California

Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in California is $95,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in CA?

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

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Gehl Food & Beverage

Lathrop, CA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Gehl Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Description:

Now Hiring: Controls Engineer
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Salary Range: 110K - 130K


Why join our team?  

  • Full benefits package – medical, dental, vision &      401(k) match  
  • Generous PTO & holidays  
  • Growth opportunities to expand skillsets and enhance      career  
  • Amazing team & culture focused on:  

Communication | Community Involvement | Wellness | Employee Activities  


Other Benefits & Programs We Offer:  

  • Referral bonus program  
  • Tuition reimbursement  
  • HSA Medical plan option with annual company contribution  
  • Perks at Work – discounts on shopping, travel & more  
  • Proven continued business growth for future opportunities  

Position Overview

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, the Controls Engineer analyzes plant processes and supports the control, optimization, and reliability of production assets. Responsibilities include designing, programming, testing, and troubleshooting aseptic filling and processing lines and material-handling systems.

As part of a cross-functional team, this role provides technical support and implements enhancements for aseptic manufacturing systems with a focus on safety and quality. The Controls Engineer serves as an electrical controls resource for equipment development and troubleshooting and works closely with engineering, operations, and maintenance to meet production needs.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide machine support including but not limited to safety controllers, PLC's, HMI's, robots, motion control, measurement systems, instrumentation, material handling systems, industrial networks, and computer system hardware/software application support for MES and data collection systems.
  • Perform work utilizing plant electrical controls standards.
  • Work with the Change Management Process for the overall implementation, performance, and continuous improvement of company initiatives.
  • Schedule and manage upgrades, overhauls, and conversions of Aseptic Filling and Process Lines.
  • Provide training in the operation and maintenance of Aseptic Filling and Process Lines
  • Participate in after-hours support for engineering groups on a rotating basis.
Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent technical experience)
  • 4–6 years of relevant technical/operational experience in manufacturing or production environments
  • Experience with aseptic processing and packaging systems (minimum 2 years), preferably Tetra Pak equipment
  • Proficiency with PLCs (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell), HMI systems, and SCADA platforms (Ignition, Wonderware)
  • Knowledge of motion control, VFDs, safety hardware, robotics, and vision inspection systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence)
  • Experience installing, commissioning, and troubleshooting processing and packaging equipment, including off-hours support as needed
  • Understanding of food processing/packaging operations, FDA regulations, and NFPA 70/70E/78 standards
  • AutoCAD experience

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