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Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mach Industries

Controls Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to ...

MML US Inc

Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The Role: The Systems Engineer position is part of Mainstay Medical's Product Development ... Ensure all stakeholder needs, requirements, and risk controls are satisfied; and traceability is ...

Intellectt INC

Systems Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

Systems Engineer Location: Pleasanton, CA Role Summary: We are seeking an experienced Systems ... Knowledge of design controls, configuration management, defect tracking, and change management.

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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 Jul 15, 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.

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 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 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Systems Engineer

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Hi,

My name is Karthik Mutyala, from Stark Pharma Solutions Inc, we are hiring talents for our client. I am working on Systems Engineer position right now. Please send me your updated resume if you have relevant experience and interested in this position. The detailed job description is as follows

Role: Systems Engineer

Location: Pleasanton, CA
Contract Duration: 12 Months
 

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to lead system integration activities for complex, regulated medical devices. This role will support both new product development and sustaining engineering initiatives, focusing on the integration of mechanical, electrical, embedded software, mobile applications, wireless technologies, and cloud-connected systems.

The ideal candidate will bring strong systems engineering expertise, hands-on integration experience, and the ability to work independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced medical device environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead system integration planning and execution throughout the product lifecycle, from architecture and design through verification, validation, and design transfer.
  • Define and manage system integration strategies, interface requirements, integration sequencing, and risk mitigation plans.
  • Coordinate integration activities across hardware, embedded software, mobile applications, wireless communication technologies, and cloud-based platforms.
  • Support system architecture development, interface management, and requirements allocation across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Partner with Systems, Software, Hardware, Quality, Clinical, and Regulatory teams to identify and resolve integration issues through structured root-cause analysis.
  • Support system-level verification and validation activities, ensuring traceability, test readiness, and issue resolution.
  • Lead technical reviews, communicate integration risks and trade-offs, and provide technical guidance to project teams.
  • Ensure compliance with quality systems, design controls, configuration management, and change management processes.
  • Collaborate with global engineering teams, vendors, and stakeholders to achieve project objectives and deliverables.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline with 5–6 years of relevant experience; OR
  • Master's degree in a related field with 4+ years of relevant experience.
  • Proven experience leading system integration activities involving both hardware and software components.
  • Strong understanding of system architecture, interface management, and complex system behavior.
  • Experience working in regulated product development environments (medical devices preferred).
  • Hands-on experience collaborating across software, hardware, and systems engineering teams.
  • Knowledge of design controls, configuration management, defect tracking, and change control processes.
  • Excellent communication, technical documentation, and stakeholder management skills.
  • Ability to work independently and drive projects in a matrixed organization.

I am actively connecting with professionals for current and upcoming opportunities. If you are open to exploring new roles or would like to stay informed about relevant positions, please send me your updated resume along with the best number and time to reach you.  

Please follow Stark Pharma Solutions on LinkedIn for the latest job updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/99455976/

Thank you,

Karthik Mutyala

Recruiting Manager

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

Email: karthik@starkpharma.com

15 Corporate Place S, Suite 350,

Piscataway, New Jersey 08854

www.starkpharma.com