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Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The LaSalle Group

Controls Engineer

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

This 1st Shift Controls Engineer role sits at the intersection of innovation and execution and is perfect for someone who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing environments and enjoys solving complex ...

EPC POWER CORP.

Controls Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Description EPC Power is looking for a Controls Engineer to join our growing engineering team. You will design and implement control algorithms for grid-tied power conversion systems - from concept ...

EPC Power Corporation

Controls Engineer

Poway, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

EPC Power is looking for a Controls Engineer to join our growing engineering team. You will design and implement control algorithms for grid-tied power conversion systems - from concept through ...

Smart Caliber Technology

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Job Title: Controls Engineer (PLC Commissioning) Job Type: Contract Duration: 6 Months (Possible Extension) Locations * Cleburne, TX * Hesperia, CA * San Jose, CA Job Summary We are seeking ...

New

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 ...

K&K Technical

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

AlfaTech

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Salary: $115,000 - $130,000 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 ...

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.

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.

CEI

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer Job at a Glance * Title: Senior Controls Engineer * Location: Anaheim, CA (onsite) * Hours: First Shift, 5 am to 2 pm PST * Contract: W2 only, 24-month contract with ...

Visium Resources, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer provides advanced technical expertise in the field deployment, troubleshooting, sustainment, and optimization of Resort's lighting control, HVAC, Energy Management System ...

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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 6, 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 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 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 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.

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.
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 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

The LaSalle Group

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

LaSalle Network is hiring a 1st Shift Controls Engineer ready to take ownership of automation systems that keep production running at peak performance. This 1st Shift Controls Engineer role sits at the intersection of innovation and execution and is perfect for someone who thrives in fast-paced manufacturing environments and enjoys solving complex technical challenges!
  • Compensation: $90,000 - $100,000
  • Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), PTO
  • Location: Vacaville, CA
  • Work Model: On-site, 1st shift, Monday - Friday

As a 1st Shift Controls Engineer, you'll collaborate cross-functionally with maintenance, production and engineering teams to design, optimize and troubleshoot critical control systems. If you're a hands-on problem solver who enjoys seeing your work directly impact operations, this is your move.
What's the job?
  • Design, develop and maintain electrical control systems and automation equipment
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens)
  • Configure and optimize HMI systems and interfaces
  • Support installation and upgrades of automation systems
  • Diagnose and resolve system malfunctions across PLCs, HMIs and instrumentation
  • Improve system efficiency, reduce downtime and enhance production quality
  • Collaborate with plant teams to implement continuous improvement initiatives
  • Interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic and process flow diagrams

What's needed?
  • 3-5 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or similar role
  • Hands-on PLC programming experience (RSLogix, FactoryTalk, Siemens, etc.)
  • Experience with HMI design and system integration
  • Strong troubleshooting skills in industrial automation environments
  • Familiarity with VFDs, motion controls and industrial communication protocols
  • Ability to read electrical schematics and technical diagrams
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
  • Strong communication skills and a team-first mindset

What's in it for me?
  • Competitive salary ($90K-$100K)
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental and vision
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge automation systems
  • High-impact role with visibility across operations
  • Growth potential within a leading manufacturing environment

If you're a driven Controls Engineer looking to make a real impact, we want to hear from you. Apply today and bring your expertise to a team that values innovation, collaboration and results.
Sarah Carpenter
Project Manager
LaSalle Network
#LI-SC2
LNESC
LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.
LaSalle Network is the leading provider of direct hire and temporary staffing services. For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing, Technology, Supply Chain, Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and Executive Search, LaSalle offers staffing and recruiting solutions to companies of all sizes and across all industries.

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