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Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

NextGenEnergyJobs

Staff Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Develop and execute test plans for controls features and system behavior * Validate controls code ... Partner with controls engineers to improve test coverage and design for testability * Support ...

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 ...

EMCOR Group Inc

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$71 - $85/hr

... and programming required. * Working knowledge of at least three HVAC controls systems (preferably Delta, Distech, JCI or Andover) * Knowledge of mechanical systems * Ability to interface with ...

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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 Sep 14, 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 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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Brakes Motion Controls Systems Engineer

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Yoh - A Day & Zimmerman Company
See more jobs at Yoh - A Day & Zimmerman Companyexternal

$90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Brakes Motion Controls Systems Engineer
The Motion Controls Systems Engineer will participate in the system level design activities for the propulsion and braking system, with a special focus on the electrical and controls integration to the rest of the vehicle system. You will Conceptualize, Design, Engineer, Develop and support the launch of next generation vehicle platform architectures for electric vehicles.
Responsabilities:
  • Participate in vehicle systems and software technical discussions and develop technical solutions while representing the propulsion system.
  • Distill product-level requirements and decompose them from vehicle-level motion features down to ECU/software-component functional requirements.
  • Define braking and propulsion functions and work with the hardware, software, architecture, safety and other cross-functional teams to deliver said functionality.
  • Participate in functional safety and failure avoidance analysis of complex electrical and software vehicle subsystems (HARA, FMEAs, etc.).
  • Develop and own motion related vehicle features (drive modes, terrain modes, vehicle hold, speedometer, odometer, cruise control, brake assistance, etc.).
  • Define diagnostic interfaces (DTCs, health monitoring, driver notifications, etc.) relating to the propulsion and braking systems.
  • Build the feature implementation strategy and develop functional boundary diagrams, sequence diagrams, define feature attributes, assess homologation requirements, and other deliverables.
  • Define system level test plans for hardware and software features (virtualized testing environments, Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), etc.).
  • Use field data to improve design and performance of the system.
  • Report features development progress and maturity at various program milestones.
  • Participate in architectural and software technical discussions and develop technical solutions while representing the propulsion system.

The minimum requirements we seek:
  • BS in Engineering degree in an equivalent field, or equivalent experience.
  • 0-5+ years of experience in systems design, systems architecture, propulsion or brakes systems, integration, and test validation.
  • Strong electrical and systems engineering fundamentals.
  • Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics.
  • Working knowledge of systems development, vehicle architecture, propulsion technologies, brake system technologies, software/hardware tool development.
  • A systems approach to design and development with the desire and curiosity to strive for exceptional delivery execution and continuous improvement.

Should have experience with some of the following:
  • Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Traction Control
  • Stability Control
  • Friction & Regen Brake Blending
  • Trailer Brake Controls
  • Hydraulic brake boost assist
  • One-Pedal Driving
  • Hill-start assist
  • Brake torque vectoring
  • Brake Pedal Override
  • Automatic Emergency Braking / Pre-Collision Assistance
  • Dynamic Braking / Dynamic Deceleration
  • Electronic Park Brake Control features
  • Hydraulic brake boost Control features
  • ESC control features

Preferred Requirements:
  • M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Embedded Systems, Mechanical engineering.
  • Proven technical expertise in Propulsion and/or Brakes Systems Design and understanding of the intricacies of the subsystem.
  • Experience in the test, validation, and calibration of vehicle motion control features (e.g., longitudinal/lateral dynamics, regenerative braking, traction control) using HIL/SIL or in-vehicle testing.
  • Experience with electric machine design and DC/AC inverter design.
  • Experience with smart actuators, brake-by-wire systems, and integrated motion controllers.
  • Experience with Vehicle Network Protocols such as CAN, LIN & Automotive Ethernet.
  • Experience in leading product development from concept to deployment.
  • Experience in MATLAB, Python, or equivalent tools for modeling and analysis.
  • Experience operating within an Agile software development framework utilizing modern CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and software deployment.
  • Proficiency in fundamentals of vehicle architecture, embedded systems design, RTOS s and real-time networking.
  • Strong working knowledge of ISO 26262 functional safety standards (industry certification is highly preferred).

Estimated Min Rate: $70.00
Estimated Max Rate: $90.00
What s In It for You?
We welcome you to be a part of the largest and legendary global staffing companies to meet your career aspirations. Yoh s network of client companies has been employing professionals like you for over 65 years in the U.S., UK and Canada. Join Yoh s extensive talent community that will provide you with access to Yoh s vast network of opportunities and gain access to this exclusive opportunity available to you. Benefit eligibility is in accordance with applicable laws and client requirements. Benefits include:
  • Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Benefits (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • Life & Disability Insurance (for employees working 20+ hours per week)
  • MetLife Voluntary Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Direct Deposit & weekly epayroll
  • Referral Bonus Programs
  • Certification and training opportunities

Note: Any pay ranges displayed are estimations. Actual pay is determined by an applicant's experience, technical expertise, and other qualifications as listed in the job description. All qualified applicants are welcome to apply.
Yoh, a Day & Zimmermann company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
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For California applicants, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. All of the material job duties described in this posting are job duties for which a criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
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