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Controls Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Torrance, CA · Hybrid

$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

TPM - Controls Sofware

Berkeley, CA · Hybrid

$50 - $120/hr

This individual will serve as the bridge between systems engineering, controls, firmware, software, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure technical milestones are achieved on schedule. This role ...

And by harnessing Danaher's system of continuous improvement, you help turn ideas into impact ... The Staff Automation Controls Engineer is a technical contributor responsible for the architecture ...

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 ...

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 ...

Controls Technician

Coachella, CA · On-site

$31 - $40.75/hr

Troubleshoot equipment electrical controls systems * Understand PLC programming, wiring schematics, HMI programming, and input/output diagrams * Provide training to Maintenance Mechanics * Place ...

Senior Controls Engineer * Location: Anaheim, CA * Contract: W2 only, 24 month contract with ... This role supports day-to-day system operations, leads improvement projects, and mentors technical ...

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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:
Systems Engineer

Systems Engineer

Moog

Torrance, CA • Hybrid

$85K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Moog Inc. rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Moog is a performance culture that empowers people to achieve great things. Our people enjoy solving interesting technical challenges in a culture where everyone trusts each other to do the right thing. For you, working with us can mean deeper job satisfaction, better rewards, and a great quality of life inside and outside of work.

Job Title:

Systems Engineer

Work Schedule:

Hybrid - Torrance, CA

Moog Military Aircraft has an immediate opening for a Systems Engineerto workon next-generation aircraft controls for military aircraft. Your primary tasks may include creation of system architecture; performance prediction; system analysis; requirements management; and integration, verification and validation planning. Reporting to an Engineering Manager, you will have a 9/80 work schedule with a hybrid work option (minimum 3 days/week in the office) in Torrance, CA.

To be considered for this role, here's what you'll need to bring with you:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Math, or Science Discipline.

  • 5+ years of professional work experience in the field of Engineering

  • Experience with requirements management; integration, test, modeling and simulation methods; and control system design and verification

It'd be great if you also had:

  • Experience in the aerospace industry

  • Familiarity with Fault Management design and architecture development

  • Strengths in controls system design

  • Knowledge of aircraft flight control systems a plus

  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, and dSpace hardware for system performance and real-time modeling

  • Experience working with safety-critical systems (including hardware and software)

  • Proficiency with Python coding

As a Systems Engineer, you will:

  • Contribute as a key technical member on a team of creative, independent individuals to develop, integrate, and verify complex hydraulic and electromechanical control systems.

  • Coordinate/participate design product discussions across other development teams and Moog sites.

  • Create and communicate design requirements.

  • Support the identification and definition of Verification and Validation approaches for the system or subsystem.

  • Develop verification plans and verification cross reference matrices (VCRM's) for high performance control systems.

  • Develop test plans and procedures in support of requirements verification and system qualification.

  • Drive successful real-time system model integration, in order to support a variety of test environments at both system and unit level.

  • Create test scripts to support automated testing of systems.

  • Create concise reports to document test results, requirement verification, limitations and constraints.

  • Support system- and subsystem-level integration and test, including any anomaly investigations.

  • Travel 5-10% to other Moog sites and customer sites (primarily US based).

How we care for you:

  • Financial Rewards: great compensation package, annual profit sharing, matching 401k and the ability to participate in Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts

  • Work/Life Balance: Flexible paid time off, holidays and parental leave program, relocation assistance

  • Health & Welfare: Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, Employee Assistance Plan ("EAP") and other supplemental benefit coverages

  • Professional Skills Development: Tuition Assistance, mentorship and coaching opportunities, leadership development and other personal growth programs

  • Collaborative and Welcoming Workplace: Inclusive culture rooted in our values, enhanced by Employee Resource Groups, and team-building activities

  • Our Torrance site has a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off

Salary Range Transparency:

Torrance, CA $85,000.00-$135,000.00 Annually

Salary Range Disclaimer

The base salary range represents the low and high end of the Moog salary range for this position in the given work location. Actual salaries will vary depending on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range(s) listed is just one component of Moog's total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, employee stock purchase plan, an open paid time off policy, and many region-specific benefits.

This position requires access to U.S. export-controlled information.
EOE/AA Minority/Female/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Veteran

Moog is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such affirms the right of every person to participate in all aspects of employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, contact our Human Resources department via phone at 844-367-5787.

No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Absent compliance with these pre-conditions resumes submitted directly to any Moog Inc. employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Moog Inc.


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About Moog

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1951 with the invention of the servo valve by Bill Moog, a breakthrough in motion control systems, Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B) has evolved into a global leader in motion control parts and systems. Headquartered in East Aurora, NY, we serve customers in over 90 countries, with operations spanning more than 27 countries and a dedicated workforce of nearly 13,000 professionals. Our organization comprises three operating groups: Aircraft, Industrial, and Space and Defense. Our high-performance systems drive military and commercial aircraft, satellites, launch vehicles, missiles, industrial machinery, marine, and medical equipment. At Moog, our focus lies in crafting high-performance solutions to solve the most challenging technical problems for our customers. Beyond technical prowess, Moog fosters a performance culture empowering employees to achieve greatness. Our team thrives on tackling engaging technical challenges within a culture of trust, offering rewarding job experiences and a fulfilling work-life balance.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

East Aurora, NY, US

Year founded

1951

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