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Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88K - $113K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the manufacturing automation and controls systems design, specification, documentation, programming, simulation, testing, and start-up assistance. * The ...

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Develop control system validation/testing protocols. * Familiar with TCP/IP, Modbus, and Devicenet communication protocols. * Experience with controls and calibration utilizing best practices per ...

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88K - $113K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the manufacturing automation and controls systems design, specification, documentation, programming, simulation, testing, and start-up assistance. * The ...

Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$85K - $135K/yr

Systems Engineer Work Schedule: Hybrid - Torrance, CA Moog Military Aircraft has an immediate ... Strengths in controls system design * Knowledge of aircraft flight control systems a plus

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

Simatic Step 7 * Support controls programming across Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Toyopuc, and Yaskawa ... Develop and modify Safety PLC programs using Allen-Bradley and Siemens safety systems. * Validate ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jun 13, 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 are Control Systems Engineers?

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.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control systems engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing, automation, or aerospace sectors.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls Systems Engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in automation, robotics, or industrial control systems can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual skill set.

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, and why are they important?

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 does a Control Systems Engineer do?

A Control Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated control systems used in manufacturing, robotics, and industrial processes. They analyze system requirements, create control algorithms, and use tools like PLCs and SCADA software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely. Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software engineering is essential for this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Controls Systems Engineers can reach salaries of $500,000 or more with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and leadership roles in large organizations. High compensation often involves specialized knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE). Such roles typically require years of experience and may include bonuses or stock options.
What cities in California are hiring for Controls Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Controls Systems Engineer job openings:
Construction Administration & Controls Engineer

Construction Administration & Controls Engineer

Arup

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$90K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Arup
Dedicated to sustainable development, Arup is a collective of consultants, planners, and advisors working across 140 countries. Founded to be both humane and excellent, we collaborate with our clients and partners using imagination and technology to shape a better world.
Arup is seeking a Construction Administration & Controls Engineer to join our regional team in our West Geography office locations. This is a hybrid role that supports both Construction Administration (CA) and Building Controls teams, offering exposure to high performance building systems and delivery of complex, multidisciplinary projects.
This role sits in our LA office.
The successful candidate will play an integral role in ensuring design quality, effective coordination across disciplines, and strong engagement with clients and stakeholders. This position is ideal for an experienced professional who thrives in the construction phase and has an interest in building systems, controls, and commissioning. Our work spans science, healthcare, higher education, transportation, commercial, and government sectors, including largescale hospitals, airports, cultural institutions, corporate campuses, and data centers.
The Opportunity
  • Controls & Systems Support
  • Coordinate and support project specific controls design activities, including development of process, instrumentation, and control diagrams.
  • Assist with preparation and review of building control diagrams for HVAC, lighting, and plumbing systems.
  • Provide measurement and verification services on existing building projects and support commissioning and retro-commissioning efforts.
  • Contribute to advanced control strategies for high performance and LEED certified buildings.
  • Construction Administration
  • Support Construction Administration activities across new construction, renovation, and predesign phases, related to controls system design & construction, but also more broadly, as needed.
  • Facilitate timely and coordinated responses to Contractor Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, field reports, and inspection observations.
  • Participate in construction site meetings, including "all-hands" or "big room" sessions, and clearly communicate information between field and design teams.
  • Support a diverse, multidisciplinary CA team while maintaining accountability for assigned tasks and deliverables.
  • Capture lessons learned during construction and contribute to inhouse design and constructability reviews.
  • Engage with BIM and digital delivery processes to proactively identify coordination and constructability opportunities.

Collaboration & Standards
  • Participate in meetings with internal engineering teams, clients, and external stakeholders, maintaining strong working relationships.
  • Present lessons learned and technical insights to nonfieldbased engineering teams.
  • Support development and refinement of regional Construction Administration best practices, including digital platforms, specifications, test sheets, forms, and field reporting standards.
  • Stay current with relevant industry trends, codes, and technology advancements related to construction, commissioning, and building controls.

Is this role right for you?
  • Minimum 4 years of relevant experience in construction administration, controls engineering, commissioning, or a closely related field.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Skills
  • Experience supporting or delivering building controls and automation systems.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or equivalent professional credential.
  • LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP).
  • Project experience in healthcare, science, higher education, transportation, industrial, government, or commercial sectors.
  • Participation in ASHRAE or other relevant professional organizations.

Please note that all applicants must apply directly via the job portal. If this role is not quite what you are looking for, but you are interested in other opportunities for a future with purpose, please sign up to our Talent Community where you will be kept up to date with roles suitable for you to shape a better world.
What We Offer You
At Arup, we care about each member's success, so we can grow together.
Guided by our values, we provide an attractive total reward package that recognizes the contribution of each of our members to our shared success. As well as competitive, fair and equitable pay, we offer a career in which all of our members can belong, grow and thrive - through benefits that support health and wellbeing, a wide range of learning opportunities and many possibilities to have an impact through the work they do.
We are owned in trust on behalf of our members, giving us the freedom, with personal responsibility, to set our own direction and choose work that aligns with our purpose and adds to Arup's legacy. Our members collaborate on ambitious projects to deliver remarkable outcomes for our clients and communities. Profit Share is a key part of our reward, enabling members to share in the results of our collective efforts.
Benefits at Work- At Arup, we have a comprehensive and valuable benefits program that works for our employees and their families while keeping costs low. These benefits provide health and welfare security for you as well as paid time off for rest and renewal. As a member of Arup, everyone shares in our success through a global profit share scheme (payments are dependent on the firm's financial performance). Our Global Profit Share Plan (paid bi-annually) provides an opportunity for you to share in the success of the Firm. As a valued employee of Arup, you can also choose to participate in our 401(k) plan with up to 10% company match to help you save for your future
Flexible Working- We believe that flexible arrangements create a more inclusive way of working that supports our diversity and the wellbeing of our people. Options for alternative schedules and the ability to work outside of the office for a portion of your workweek are available
Los Angeles Hiring Range -The good faith base salary hiring range for this job if performed in Los Angeles is $90,000 to $111,300 per year. This range is commensurate with experience, educational background, and skill level. Benefits are not included in the base salary. Please note hiring ranges for candidates performing work outside of Los Angeles will differ.
Different People, Shared Values
Arup is an equal opportunity employer that actively promotes and nurtures a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, neurotype or mental health, race or ethnicity, faith or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and whether you're pregnant or on family leave. We are an open environment that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas - this drives our excellence.
Guided by our values and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we create and contribute to equitable spaces and systems, while cultivating a sense of belonging for all. Our internal employee networks support our inclusive culture: from race, ethnicity and cross-cultural working to gender equity and LGBTQ+ and disability inclusion - we aim to create a space for you to express yourself and make a positive difference. Discover more about life at Arup at www.arup.com/careers/your-life-at-arup.
Our Application Process
We will be reviewing our candidates for this position on a rolling basis. Once you have applied you will be evaluated and potentially moved on to the next round, at which point a member of the talent resourcing team will reach out to you directly.
Arup is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, spouse of a protected veteran, or disability.
Stay safe online. Recruitment fraud is on the rise, and Arup's name, logo, and branding have been used in fraudulent job advertisements. Arup will never ask for bank information as part of our recruitment process.
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