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Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build, implementation and sustaining of electromechanical drive and system controls. This position will own the architectural and detailed ...

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA

$86K - $112K/yr

The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build, implementation and sustaining of electromechanical drive and system controls. This position will own the architectural and detailed ...

Raya Workforce

Principal Controls Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Principal Controls Engineer Location : Petaluma, CA Work Type : Fulltime/Onsite Work Authorization : Only US Citizens/Green Card Holders Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Principal ...

Giga Energy

Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

What you'll do As a Controls Engineer at Giga, you will own the design, development, and commissioning of control systems for mission-critical AI infrastructure. From PLC/HMI programming and panel ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Roseville, CA · Hybrid

$85K - $125K/yr

ENR (Engineering News Record) Top 500 firm * Rated as a top System Integrator Giant We have a Controls Engineer position available in Auburn, CA. This person will be responsible for controls ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

ENR (Engineering News Record) Top 500 firm * Rated as a top System Integrator Giant We have a Controls Engineer position available in Auburn, CA. This person will be responsible for controls ...

Scale Microgrid Solutions

Controls Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help design, build, and commission microgrids. You will report to our Chief Technology Officer and work a ...

Scale Microgrid Solutions

Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$95K - $124K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help design, build, and commission microgrids. You will report to our Chief Technology Officer and work a ...

Scale Microgrid Solutions

Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$95K - $124K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help design, build, and commission microgrids. You will report to our Chief Technology Officer and work a ...

Scale Microgrid Solutions

Controls Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help design, build, and commission microgrids. You will report to our Chief Technology Officer and work a ...

Dexterity

Controls Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

About the Role You will join as a Controls Engineer within Dexterity's Product Engineering Team, contributing to the development of embedded systems that power our robotic platforms. This role sits ...

Gradient Robotics

Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

About the role We're looking for a Controls Engineer to own motion from command to actuator. You'll design and tune the control loops that let our machines do sub-millimeter precision work under real ...

Dexterity

Controls Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

About the Role You will join as a Controls Engineer within Dexterity's Product Engineering Team, contributing to the development of embedded systems that power our robotic platforms. This role sits ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Controls Engineer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automated controls, or manufacturing. Masters preferred. * 5+ years of PLC Programming and systems maintenance using Rockwell ...

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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:
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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.

Lead Controls Engineer

Upwing Energy

Cerritos, CA • On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Upwing Energy is developing and commercializing first-of-their-kind Subsurface Compressor Systems (SCS) for natural gas extraction. Our development efforts combine exciting engineering challenges in turbomachinery; rotordynamics; high-speed and high-power electric motors; power electronics; industrial automation; aerodynamics; structural, thermal and fluid flow simulations; mechanical design and design-for-manufacturability.
General Purpose of Job:
The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build, implementation and sustaining of electromechanical drive and system controls. This position will own the architectural and detailed design of the supervisory control and communications for our subsurface compression system, the design of the variable speed drive, and interfaces for our subsurface compression system. Throughout the product development process, the Controls Engineer will provide design, analysis and test contributions to the team from a controls perspective as well as work with the engineering and test teams to correlate models to test results.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Architect, write, and debug PLC code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to integrate control algorithms into existing systems.
  • Collaborate with electrical engineers to ensure compatibility between control algorithms and hardware.
  • Design, simulate and test control algorithms for electric motors and variable speed drives.
  • Develop and maintain technical documentation for the variable speed drive and system interface designs.
  • Analyze motor and system performance data and make recommendations for improvements.
  • Coordinate with the supplier of our variable speed drive via technical specifications and engineering coordination meetings.
  • Stay up to date with emerging trends and technologies in the field of motor and system controls.

Skills, Experience, Education, and Abilities:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Controls or Electrical Engineering
  • 5+ years of experience in motor controls engineering or industrial automation.
  • Strong knowledge of control theory and control algorithms.
  • Understanding of Allen Bradley PLC systems and programming.
  • Experience with control communication protocols, e.g. CAN, MODBUS, TCP/IP.
  • Proficient in one or more modern computer programming languages, e.g. C/C++/Python.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with application and setup of programable logic controllers (PLC).

Intangibles Sought:
  • Must have the initiative to take ownership and drive results.
  • Must have fundamental curiosity as to how things work.
  • Drive to constantly learn new things and apply them to development and improvement of analysis methods.
  • Determination to investigate and understand root cause of problems.
  • Ability to communicate problems, analysis and results clearly to a general engineering audience of various specializations.
  • Be open to new ideas and input from others in a collegial, team environment.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • High integrity, commitment and honesty.
  • Readiness to do whatever task is necessary to move the product/team/company forward.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
None
Physical Demands / Work Environment:
Most time will be spent in an office environment or shop floor. Personal protective equipment is required in designated areas. Minimal travel will be required to support products in the field.

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