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Controls Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CKC Automation LLC

Controls Engineering Manager

Benicia, CA · On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

Lead, coach, and develop a team of Controls Engineers in a high-performance, accountable environment * Provide technical mentorship and career development across all experience levels * Allocate ...

CKC Automation, LLC

Controls Engineering Manager

Benicia, CA · On-site

$97K - $125K/yr

Lead, coach, and develop a team of Controls Engineers in a high-performance, accountable environment * Provide technical mentorship and career development across all experience levels * Allocate ...

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA

$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.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · 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.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA

$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.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

San Jose, CA · 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.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Fremont, CA

$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.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineering Manager

Milpitas, CA · 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.

Samsonrose

Senior Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

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 Aug 25, 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:

Controls Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Controls Engineering Manager

Benicia, CA

CKC Automation LLC
See more jobs at CKC Automation LLCexternal

$97K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description

About CKC Automation

CKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through innovative automation solutions. Founded in 2005 (as CKC Engineering) and headquartered in Benicia, CA, we serve diverse industries across the Bay Area and West Coast - including automotive, medical device, pharmaceutical, energy, and semiconductor - combining deep technical expertise with creative problem-solving to tackle complex manufacturing challenges.  We design and build custom automation solutions that improve efficiency, enhance quality, and drive innovation. 

Our offerings include:

  • Machine - Robotic workcells, build-to-print solutions, prototype equipment, and fixtures
  • Panel - High-volume panel assembly from our UL 508A-certified panel shop
  • Controls / Data - PLC, HMI, and robotic integration for optimized production.  Real-time monitoring, analytics, and SCADA/data infrastructure

Website: ckcautomation.com 


Why Join Us

  • Get out from behind the desk-lead while staying hands-on with cutting-edge PLC, SCADA, and automation systems 
  • Own and drive high-visibility, complex industrial automation projects that actually ship 
  • Join a no-politics, high-performance engineering team that values execution and accountability 
  • Have a direct impact on technical direction, team growth, and business success

About the Role

We're hiring a hands-on Controls Engineering Manager who can lead a team and still dive into the work. 

You'll be responsible for delivering automation projects end-to-end-from concept through commissioning-while building and leading a team of strong engineers. This is not a passive management role. You'll stay close to the work, make critical technical decisions, and step in when it matters.

You'll work side-by-side, in person, with engineering, project management, and sales to scope solutions, solve real problems, and deliver results for customers. We're looking for someone who moves fast, owns outcomes, and raises the bar for both technical execution and team performance.

If you thrive in environments where expectations are high and results matter, you'll fit right in.

Requirements

Leadership & Team Development

  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of Controls Engineers in a high-performance, accountable environment 
  • Provide technical mentorship and career development across all experience levels 
  • Allocate resources across projects based on skills, capacity, and priorities 
  • Establish and enforce engineering standards, best practices, and continuous improvement 
  • Conduct performance evaluations, feedback, and development planning 
Project & Technical Leadership
  • Oversee execution of multiple automation projects (PLC, SCADA, HMI) from concept through commissioning 
  • Provide technical direction across system architecture, programming, testing, and startup 
  • Review and approve control system designs, PLC code, and automation architectures 
  • Lead key customer and internal technical discussions and project reviews 
  • Resolve complex technical and project challenges 
Operational Execution
  • Drive on-time, on-budget, high-quality project delivery 
  • Manage resource planning, forecasting, utilization, and project margins 
  • Oversee billing, hours tracking, and financial performance of projects 
  • Ensure strong communication across engineering teams, project managers, and customers 
  • Maintain ~50% billable utilization while leading the team 
Sales & Business Support
  • Partner with Sales on project estimates, proposals, and scope development 
  • Support pre-sales engineering and solution design 
  • Identify growth opportunities, technology trends, and capability gaps 
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships, including re-engagement efforts 
Technical Expertise & Innovation
  • Lead development using PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, VFDs, motion control, and industrial networks 
  • Stay current on automation technologies, Industry 4.0 trends, and data integration 
  • Drive adoption of new tools, standards, and engineering methodologies 

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field 
  • 10+ years in industrial automation / controls engineering 
  • 3+ years in a leadership or management role (Controls Manager, Lead Engineer, Engineering Supervisor) 
  • Proven success delivering complex automation projects (design commissioning) 
Technical Skills 
  • PLC Programming (Allen-Bradley / Rockwell, Siemens, etc.) 
  • HMI Development (FactoryTalk, WinCC, Ignition, etc.) 
  • SCADA Systems & Industrial Data Systems 
  • VFDs, Motion Control, Servo Systems 
  • Control Panel Design & Electrical Systems 
  • Industrial Networking: EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet 
  • System Integration, Commissioning, Troubleshooting 
Leadership Skills
  • Team leadership, coaching, and performance management 
  • Strong decision-making and problem-solving ability 
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in fast-paced environments 
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills 
Additional Requirements
  • Willingness to travel to customer sites for installation and commissioning 
  • Flexibility to support off-hours or startup activities as needed 

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays

Base Salary: $145,000 - $170,000 

Target Bonus: $15,000 - $25,000 

Total Target Compensation: $160,000 - $190,000

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