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Controls Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$46 - $51/hr

Equivalent work experience in controls engineering and industrial automation. Founded in 2010 and headquartered in the Washington, DC metro area, Cynet Systems Inc. is a leading staffing and ...

Clean Energy

Controls Engineer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Work with engineering team to develop electrical, instrumentation and controls products and systems to satisfy unique customer specifications, contracts, and new business development. Create/review ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Clean Energy Fuels

Controls Engineer

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Work with engineering team to develop electrical, instrumentation and controls products and systems to satisfy unique customer specifications, contracts, and new business development. Create/review ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Techoundsllc

Controls Engineer

Corona, CA

$86K - $111K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Yaskawa Motoman Robotics

Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

The following applies if Project Engineer position is in Irvine, CA • Must be able to perform ... controls. The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or ...

Motoman

Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$89K - $116K/yr

Provides technical support and leadership to customer, engineering team, customer service, sales ... or controls The employee is occasionally required to walk; reach with hands and arms; climb or ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Irvine, CA

Controls Engineer information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$59K

$103.7K

$140.6K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Irvine, CA is $103,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,600.00 and $115,900.00 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 Irvine, CA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA? For Controls Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Irvine, CA are:
What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,662 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

K&K Technical

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Controls EngineerLocation

Onsite – Industrial Manufacturing / Stamping Operations
Travel Required – Canada, Mexico, and Customer Sites

1480725

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to support electrical design, PLC programming, commissioning, and automation upgrades for mechanical and hydraulic stamping presses.

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 assessments, installation supervision, and full-line commissioning.

The ideal candidate brings strong industrial automation experience with the ability to lead electrical and controls efforts from concept through startup in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesHMI Design

  • Create new HMI programs using GP-Pro software on Proface hardware.

  • Modify and enhance existing HMI programs.

  • Validate HMI functionality during customer buyoffs and commissioning.

PLC Design & Programming

  • Create and modify PLC programs using:

    • Studio 5000

    • RSLinx

    • IAB

    • MPE720

    • PCwin

    • Memosoft

    • Simatic Step 7

  • Support controls programming across Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Toyopuc, and Yaskawa platforms.

  • Review and validate PLC logic during customer acceptance testing.

Safety PLC Design

  • Develop and modify Safety PLC programs using Allen-Bradley and Siemens safety systems.

  • Validate machine safety logic during commissioning and buyoff activities.

  • Ensure compliance with industrial safety standards.

Electrical & Hardware Design

  • Create and modify electrical hardwire layouts using AutoCAD Electrical and IAB.

  • Develop panel layouts and field device layouts.

  • Support electrical hardware selection and system modifications.

  • Review and confirm electrical designs during customer buyoffs.

Risk Assessments

  • Conduct risk assessments related to:

    • Hardware selection

    • Installation timing

    • Project planning

    • Equipment upgrades

  • Support mitigation planning and safe implementation strategies.

Installation Supervision

  • Supervise engineers, electricians, and millwrights during installation activities.

  • Provide technical direction during equipment upgrades.

  • Resolve field installation challenges in real time.

Full Line Commissioning

  • Support complete line startup and commissioning.

  • Troubleshoot PLC, electrical, mechanical, and controls systems.

  • Validate equipment performance and production readiness.

  • Provide startup support before, during, and after installation.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related field; OR equivalent hands-on experience.

  • Strong PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi preferred).

  • AutoCAD Electrical experience.

  • Electrical hardware design and modification experience.

  • Experience with industrial equipment installation and co

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