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Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hgen

Senior/Staff Controls Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$179K - $186K/yr

As a Senior Controls Systems Engineer , you will lead the design, development, and commissioning of critical control systems that operate our electrolyzers. You will leverage your expertise in ...

Hgen

Senior/Staff Controls Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$179K - $186K/yr

As a Senior Controls Systems Engineer , you will lead the design, development, and commissioning of critical control systems that operate our electrolyzers. You will leverage your expertise in ...

Beacon Engineering Resources

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience with PLC programming, industrial automation, and troubleshooting controls systems in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Supermicro

Staff Control Systems Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

The Controls Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an integrated multi-site controls and automation solution spanning Supermicro's global facilities for rack ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

Lead Body Systems and controls for an autonomous robotaxi. Design system technical specifications Architecture. Develop system design and integration test plans to ensure optimal performance, safety ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

Lead Body Systems and controls for an autonomous robotaxi. Design system technical specifications Architecture. Develop system design and integration test plans to ensure optimal performance, safety ...

Vertex Sigma Software

Systems Engineer

Foster City, CA · On-site

Lead Body Systems and controls for an autonomous robotaxi. Design system technical specifications Architecture. Develop system design and integration test plans to ensure optimal performance, safety ...

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All JobsControls Systems Engineer JobsControls Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Controls Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do controls systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls systems 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 is the difference between Controls Systems Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls Systems EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CSCP or ISABachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, control system designManufacturing, process industries, robotics, and system integration
Industry UsageHeavy industry, process control, manufacturingAutomation, robotics, process optimization

Controls Systems Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, while Automation Engineers concentrate on implementing automation solutions, including robotics and software. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their primary focus differs: control system design versus automation implementation.

What is a controls systems engineer?

Control Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that manage, regulate, and automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and transportation. They use principles of engineering, mathematics, and computer science to ensure that machines and processes operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Their work often involves programming controllers, designing feedback loops, and integrating sensors and actuators to optimize system performance.

What are some common challenges a controls systems engineer faces when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Controls Systems Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams, which can pose coordination challenges due to differing design methodologies and project timelines. Ensuring seamless integration of control systems with various hardware and software components often requires effective communication and adaptability. Additionally, troubleshooting issues that arise during commissioning or operation—often under tight deadlines—demands strong problem-solving skills and a thorough understanding of both the control systems and the larger system architecture.

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

To thrive as a Controls Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and relevant certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills help you work effectively with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot complex systems. These skills are vital for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable automation solutions that optimize safety and efficiency in industrial environments.
What cities in California are hiring for Controls Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Controls Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Systems Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Senior/Staff Controls Systems Engineer

Hgen

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$179K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Hgen's mission is to achieve a clean and sustainable energy future through tackling emissions in hard-to-decarbonize industries. By enabling cheap and abundant clean hydrogen, Hgen aims to help decarbonize the more than 10% of global emissions that are best addressed with hydrogen. Learn more about why clean hydrogen is critical for achieving zero-emissions.
As a Senior Controls Systems Engineer, you will lead the design, development, and commissioning of critical control systems that operate our electrolyzers. You will leverage your expertise in controls for safety-critical industrial systems to ensure our electrolyzers meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and reliability. This role offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment, where your contributions will have a direct impact on the future of decarbonization.
Key Responsibilities
  • Own the design, implementation and success of the process control systems for Hgen's advanced alkaline water electrolyzers
  • Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems to safely and reliably control all aspects of the hydrogen production process
  • Oversee the qualification testing, certification and commissioning of control systems, ensuring safe and efficient operation within industrial environments
  • Act as a chief engineer, engaging in cross-disciplinary collaboration with design engineering to arrive at the simplest system solutions
  • Drive system-level architecture, balancing process requirements, capabilities, and safety to minimize the cost of hydrogen production
  • Ensure full compliance of all control systems with industry safety standards and regulatory requirements

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering discipline (electrical, mechanical, chemical, computer science, or similar)
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in safety critical controls/automation engineering across development, project execution and maintenance
  • Proficiency in designing, programming and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems for monitoring and controlling complex industrial processes
  • Experience with holistic system development, from architecture and hazard analysis to validation and compliance to relevant safety standards and codes (UL, NFPA, IEC, etc)
  • Strong understanding of control theory and process automation, as applied to fluid and gas systems

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Experience developing and commissioning control systems in hydrogen production, fuel cells, oil and gas, chemical plants, energy infrastructure or other relevant industries
  • Working knowledge of industrial process equipment for fluid and gas systems (instrumentation, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, etc.) and high power electrical systems (switchgear, transformers, rectifiers, VFDs)

Professional Qualities
  • Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills, enthusiasm for complex problem solving, and desire to optimize systems holistically
  • Strong project management skills and effective communication of technical concepts across multi-disciplinary teams
  • First principles based decision making
  • Passionate about decarbonization and addressing climate change

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Hgen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2021

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