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Controls Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA Β· On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Perform controls engineering work within a manufacturing environment. * Support manufacturing operations with a focus on controls engineering. * Work within a low‑acid aseptic food and beverage ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Sunnyvale, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.This ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Palo Alto, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.This ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Milpitas, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.This ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Fairfield, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.This ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Fremont, CA Β· On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management.This ...

Senior Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA Β· On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

In this hands‑on individual contributor role, you'll take ownership of the controls engineering backlog from day one, working within an established Beckhoff TwinCAT environment in an agile ...

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Controls Engineering information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do controls engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineering 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 is controls engineering?

Controls engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on designing, developing, and implementing systems that manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. Controls engineers use principles from electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering to automate processes, improve efficiency, and ensure safety in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Their work often involves programming controllers, designing feedback systems, and integrating sensors and actuators to achieve precise control over machinery and processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

How does a controls engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Controls Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of automated systems. They are responsible for developing and implementing control strategies that meet project specifications, which often involves coordinating with design, installation, and commissioning teams. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Controls Engineers must align their solutions with the overall project goals and troubleshoot cross-disciplinary issues that arise during development and testing phases.

How much do controls engineers get paid?

Controls engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $110,000. Salaries often increase with proficiency in PLC programming, automation systems, and relevant software tools.

Is controls engineering a good career?

Controls engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often requiring knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and programming languages like ladder logic. It offers opportunities in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors with competitive salaries and demand for skilled professionals. Career growth can involve certifications and continuous learning in evolving technologies.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Proficiency in technical drawing, troubleshooting, and industry standards is essential for this role.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Controls Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Controls Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineering job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA

E Tech Group
Industrial Automation Equipment ManufacturingΒ β€’Β 501 - 1,000 employees

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Job description

At E Tech Group, joining our team means joining a group of passionate and forward-thinking experts. We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing value for our clients through IT automation and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals & Mining, Warehousing & Distribution, and CPG/Food & Beverage industries. Our national and global scale allows us to help our clients develop and implement standardized solutions at any of their facilities regardless of physical location or the local resources available at that site.  

We're adding to our team and growing across our markets!  We are seeking a Controls Engineering Manager who will support multiple projects and lead a growing team of engineers & technical resources with strong dotted lines to sales & project management. This is an excellent hands-on opportunity to provide technical solutions and play a vital role growing a line of business with high visibility and tremendous growth potential. This is a onsite position with 30% travel.

Building Management Systems experience required; ideally in a new construction environment. 

You will:

  • Work with Executive Management, Sales, and Marketing to develop a business growth plan to drive growth.  
  • Lead & mentor a team of engineers & technical resources to build a strong, capable project delivery team.
  • Design and implementation of integrated electrical and control systems
  • Work cooperatively with engineering, design, production, and field service staff.
  • Responsible for aspects of project budget and schedule requirements. 
  • Be responsible for driving the profit & loss (P&L) of the team on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. 
  • Specify and configure various hardware components such as, instrumentation, PLCs, communication systems and industrial control panels.
  • Design and configure PLC/SCADA networks.
  • Generate test procedures and forms.
  • Meet with key clients to ensure that we are meeting or exceeding their expectations and to participate in driving our growth with them.
  • Be an ambassador who embodies our Core Values, prioritizing the success of E Tech Group, our clients, and the professional development of our associates. 

You have:

  • BS in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering degree or equivalent educational background.
  • 8+ years in industrial automation / controls integration industry.
  • 3+ years managing and leading a team.
  • Knowledge of standard engineering practices and procedures.
  • Ability to develop PLC and HMI programs within one or more languages (Schneider Electric, AVEVA, Rockwell, etc.)
  • Experience with process controls instrumentation.
  • Ability to travel up to 30%.
  • A DNA comprised of collaboration and teamwork. 

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time, lift a minimum of 50lbs and walk up and down stairs and or fixed ladders numerous times.

Benefits & Perks: 

  • 401k + match + prompt enrollment.  E Tech Group employees are 100% vested upon entry. 
  • Prompt enrollment into Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits. 
  • Generous paid time off that includes paid vacation, paid holidays, paid family leave and sick time off. 
  • Learning and growth are key parts of the E Tech culture. We provide you with training and continuing education from day one, so you can advance your career. As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities. 

E Tech Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other basis prohibited by law.  E Tech Group will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious beliefs. E Tech Group is an Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.  

(Salary Range -$160,000-$200,000)  #LI-CL1