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Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$95K - $124K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help ... Design, develop, and program PLC-based electrical control systems * Specify, purchase, and ...

Controls Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help ... Design, develop, and program PLC-based electrical control systems * Specify, purchase, and ...

Controls Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · Hybrid

$93K - $121K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help ... Design, develop, and program PLC-based electrical control systems * Specify, purchase, and ...

Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$95K - $124K/yr

The Role We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help ... Design, develop, and program PLC-based electrical control systems * Specify, purchase, and ...

Controls Engineer

Santa Cruz, CA

$96K - $124K/yr

Controls Engineer Joby Aviation · Advanced Equipment Solutions (AES) Engagement 3-6 month contract ... The work combines PLC programming, HMI/SCADA development, electrical design, panel work, field ...

Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and mechanical drawings to support troubleshooting and equipment modifications. * Assist with startup, validation, and commissioning ...

Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers to integrate controls into broader facility infrastructure * Support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT ...

Lead multidisciplinary engineering coordination with mechanical engineering, controls/software ... Represent electrical engineering in design reviews, project reviews, installation meetings ...

Controls Engineer

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed ... Electrical schematic design and drafting using AutoCAD Electrical * Troubleshoots process control ...

Controls Engineer

Irwindale, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Job Summary Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed ... Electrical schematic design and drafting using AutoCAD Electrical * Troubleshoots process control ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Collaborate with electrical engineers to ensure compatibility between control algorithms and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Controls or Electrical Engineering * 5+ years of experience in ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Collaborate with electrical engineers to ensure compatibility between control algorithms and ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Controls or Electrical Engineering * 5+ years of experience in ...

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$46 - $51/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology, Technician Degree, or ... Equivalent work experience in controls engineering and industrial automation. Founded in 2010 and ...

Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$100/hr

This position requires a candidate with knowledge of building automation systems, including HVAC controls, electrical monitoring, and building system integration. The Controls Engineer will work on a ...

Sr. Data Center Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, architectural, structural, and product teams to align ... Mentor junior controls engineers and collaborate effectively with cross-functional ...

Showing results 41-60

Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer information

What is an electrical engineer controls engineer?

Electrical Engineer Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems used to operate electrical equipment and machinery. They apply principles of electrical engineering and automation to ensure that processes run efficiently, safely, and reliably. These engineers often work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and other devices to manage manufacturing processes, building systems, or industrial equipment. Their role may also involve troubleshooting, system integration, and ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical engineer controls engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, control systems design, and automation, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical or related engineering fields. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell credentials is often required. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for designing reliable control systems, troubleshooting issues efficiently, and ensuring seamless integration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

How do electrical engineer controls engineers typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Electrical Engineer Controls Engineers often work closely with cross-functional teams, including mechanical engineers, software developers, and production staff. Their role requires frequent communication to ensure that control systems are properly integrated with mechanical designs and software interfaces. Collaboration is essential during project planning, system commissioning, and troubleshooting phases, as each department’s input impacts the overall functionality and safety of automated systems. This team-based environment also provides opportunities to learn from other engineering disciplines, broadening your technical expertise.

What is the difference between Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectElectrical Engineer Controls EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, controls certifications (e.g., PLC programming)Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certifications (e.g., CAD, HVAC)
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, automation facilities, manufacturingDesign offices, manufacturing plants, HVAC systems
Employer & Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, energy sectorsAutomotive, aerospace, HVAC, manufacturing
Common Search & ComparisonElectrical Engineer Controls Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer

The main difference between Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer and Mechanical Engineer lies in their focus areas. Electrical Engineers Controls Engineers specialize in automation, control systems, and electrical circuitry, often working with PLCs and sensors. Mechanical Engineers focus on mechanical systems, design, and thermodynamics. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in technical skills and industry applications, making them distinct yet sometimes overlapping in manufacturing environments.

What do electrical engineer controls engineers do?

Electrical controls engineers design, develop, and maintain control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often requiring knowledge of electrical circuitry, programming, and system integration.

What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Controls Engineer

Oakland, CA • Hybrid

Scale Microgrid Solutions
11 - 50 employees

$95K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Role

We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our product engineering team and help design, build, and commission microgrids. 

You will report to our Chief Technology Officer and work a hybrid work schedule from one of our offices in either Oakland, CA, Santa Monica, CA, Ridgewood, NJ, or NYC.

Key responsibilities will include:

  • Design, develop, and program PLC-based electrical control systems
  • Specify, purchase, and troubleshoot control system hardware and instrumentation (field-mounted and panel-mounted instruments)
  • Read, understand, and develop control system design documents (Functional Specifications, User's Manual, and engineering reports)
  • Troubleshoot and resolve any issues related to electrical control systems to minimize downtime and improve operational efficiency
  • Design and manage site-level microgrid networks and security
  • Perform risk assessments and implement safety measures to ensure the safe operation of control systems
  • Collaborate with internal teams, clients, and external vendors as needed to resolve system issues
  • Support cybersecurity efforts to ensure secure reliant and redundant controls
  • Learn our microgrid controls and perfect them for each project

The Ideal Candidate

  • Strong working experience with PLC programming, controls engineering, and various automation systems
  • Experience with distributed energy resources, including batteries, solar, generators, and switchgear
  • 5+ years of control loop design and switching power supply experience a plus
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot ladder logic of complex control systems
  • Solid mechanical, electrical, and software interface skills
  • Great attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Continuous learner, staying updated with the latest advancements in control systems technology
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and 4+ years of experience OR an equivalent combination of skills, education, and experience.

This is a great opportunity to have a long-term impact on a fast-paced, private equity-based growth business. Some of the core virtues embraced by Scales' employees include:

  • Do the Right Thing
  • Act Like an Owner
  • Hustle
  • Demand Results
  • Go Together
  • Evolve or Disappear

 

We offer a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits program including medical benefits, paid vacation and holidays, and 401K matching.

About Scale Microgrids 

Scale is redefining resilience, with advanced microgrids that go beyond traditional backup power solutions to give businesses the power to adapt and thrive amid all of today's growing energy challenges. As a vertically-integrated provider of turnkey advanced microgrid systems, Scale combines project design, engineering, and execution expertise with microgrid-as-a-service financing to offer our customers systems that are optimized to deliver maximum value from day one while ensuring ultra-reliable operations and fast time-to-power.

Scale is backed by EQT, a firm with ~$250B in assets, bringing a depth of experience, resources, and capital that will enable Scale to continue pursuing our vision of powering the world with distributed energy. The investment enables Scale to own and operate billions of dollars in distributed generation assets.  To learn more about Scale Microgrids, please visit https://www.scalemicrogrids.com.

 

About EQT

EQT is a leading purpose-driven global investment organization with EUR 246 billion in total assets under management, divided into two business segments: Private Capital and Real Assets. EQT owns portfolio companies and assets in Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas and supports them in achieving sustainable growth, operational excellence, and market leadership. To learn more about EQT, please visit https://eqtgroup.com.

 

Scale strives to attract and retain a workforce that reflects the composition of our customer base and communities. We are committed to providing a work environment that provides everyone with equal access and opportunity to contribute and drive meaningful outcomes.  We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply and will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.

 

This is a great opportunity to have a long-term impact on a fast-paced, private equity-backed growth business. Some of the core virtues embraced by Scales' employees include:
       Do the Right Thing
       Act Like an Owner
       Hustle
       Demand Results
       Go Together
       Evolve or Disappear
 
We offer a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits program including medical benefits, paid vacation and holidays, and 401K matching.
 

About Scale Microgrids
Scale is redefining resilience, with advanced microgrids that go beyond traditional backup power solutions to give businesses the power to adapt and thrive amid all of today's growing energy challenges. As a vertically-integrated provider of turnkey advanced microgrid systems, Scale combines project design, engineering, and execution expertise with microgrid-as-a-service financing to offer our customers systems that are optimized to deliver maximum value from day one while ensuring ultra-reliable operations and fast time-to-power.
 
Scale is backed by EQT, a firm with ~$250B in assets, bringing a depth of experience, resources, and capital that will enable Scale to continue pursuing our vision of powering the world with distributed energy. The investment enables Scale to own and operate billions of dollars in distributed generation assets.  To learn more about Scale Microgrids, please visit https://www.scalemicrogrids.com.
 

About EQT
EQT is a leading purpose-driven global investment organization with EUR 246 billion in total assets under management, divided into two business segments: Private Capital and Real Assets. EQT owns portfolio companies and assets in Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Americas and supports them in achieving sustainable growth, operational excellence, and market leadership. To learn more about EQT, please visit https://eqtgroup.com.
 

Scale strives to attract and retain a workforce that reflects the composition of our customer base and communities. We are committed to providing a work environment that provides everyone with equal access and opportunity to contribute and drive meaningful outcomes.  We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply and will consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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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