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Embedded Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

About the role We're looking for a Controls Engineer to own motion from command to actuator. You'll ... embedded in the team Preferred Qualifications * Force/impedance control or contact-rich ...

We are looking for a Principal Controls Engineer to join our team in one of today's most exciting ... Strong understanding of control theory, system dynamics, and embedded control systems. * Experience ...

Principal Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$176K - $253K/yr

We are looking for a Principal Controls Engineer to join our team in one of today's most exciting ... Strong understanding of control theory, system dynamics, and embedded control systems. * Experience ...

Engineer VII

San Diego, CA · On-site

$128K - $229K/yr

Embedded C/C++ development; embedded controls; analysis, design, and implementation of embedded ... Demonstrate technical expertise and application of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and ...

Staff Controls Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$147K - $194K/yr

... engineering practices that ensure our model-based controls are testable, maintainable, and ... Track record of delivering production-embedded code using model-based design tools (Simulink ...

Showing results 41-60

Embedded Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do embedded controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded controls 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 does an embedded controls engineer do?

An Embedded Controls Engineer designs, develops, and implements control systems for embedded devices, typically in automotive, industrial, or consumer electronics applications. They work with microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators to create efficient and reliable systems. Their responsibilities include writing embedded software, troubleshooting hardware-software interactions, and optimizing system performance. They often use programming languages like C/C++ and tools like MATLAB/Simulink for modeling and simulation.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, embedded systems programming (typically in C/C++), and control systems theory, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontrollers, industry-standard software tools (such as MATLAB/Simulink), and relevant certifications like Certified LabVIEW Developer (CLD) is valuable. Skills such as analytical problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork stand out in this role. These skills are essential for designing, implementing, and optimizing reliable control systems that integrate seamlessly with hardware under real-world constraints.

What are the typical projects and team interactions like for an embedded controls engineer?

Embedded Controls Engineers commonly work on projects involving the design, development, and testing of control algorithms and embedded firmware for products such as vehicles, industrial equipment, or consumer electronics. You will regularly collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including hardware engineers, software developers, and test engineers to ensure integration and functionality. Most roles involve a mix of individual technical work—such as coding and troubleshooting—and group activities, like design reviews and system validation. This collaborative environment not only builds technical acumen but also provides opportunities for professional growth and exposure to complex, real-world engineering challenges.

Are embedded controls engineers in demand?

Embedded controls engineers are in high demand due to the growth of automation, IoT devices, and embedded systems across industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and consumer electronics. Skills in programming languages like C and C++, along with experience with microcontrollers and real-time operating systems, enhance job prospects in this field.

What is embedded controls engineering?

Embedded controls engineering involves designing and developing control systems embedded within hardware devices, such as industrial machines, automotive systems, or consumer electronics. It requires knowledge of embedded programming, sensors, actuators, and real-time operating systems to ensure precise and reliable operation of the hardware. Engineers in this field often use tools like C, C++, and specialized development environments to create efficient control algorithms.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Controls Engineer jobs in California?

For Embedded Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Embedded Controls Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Controls Engineer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Embedded Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,309 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Dennis Group Inc

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

As a design build engineering firm and general contractor that designs and builds food and beverage processing facilities, Dennis Group’s Automation/Controls Engineers work closely with our process, packaging and building engineers to meet our clients’ expectations in startup, commissioning, and qualifying their food and beverage production facilities. The role requires regular onsite presence to ensure necessary diagnoses, troubleshooting, and operational startup of our client’s production lines, equipment, and facilities. Our automation & controls engineers are frequently facing engineering challenges in applying standard engineering techniques to design, develop, and maintain instrumentation or control systems. Both software and hardware design and troubleshooting skills and abilities is required for this role. Typical responsibilities include, but not limited to:

Responsibilities

  • Handles complex issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level engineer, team lead, or manager
  • With general supervision, designs and troubleshoot both software and hardware necessary for control systems utilizing PLCs for integration of manufacturing systems.
  • Automates manufacturing processes through the use of instrumentation or controls systems.
  • Design, diagnose, and troubleshoot network infrastructures - Ethernet, DeviceNet, AS-i, Profibus etc.
  • Develops new PLC applications, interfaces, or embedded controls
  • Develops new or modifies existing set-up and commissioning of new facilities or upgrading of existing facilities
  • Design, specify, wire, and procure control panel equipment, e.g. safety circuits, I/O, networks, etc.
  • Design, specify, and procure electrical equipment, e.g. MCCs, panelboards, transformers, etc.
  • Create design basis document & scope of work
  • Develop functional descriptions and analysis documents devices
  • Understand size and placement of control/electrical panels
  • Specify, procure, configure, and troubleshoot controls hardware and field instrumentation
  • Assist with coordinating with other engineer disciplines
  • Troubleshoots and resolves malfunctions and makes recommendations that will improve efficiency or quality of operations
  • Create commissioning and start-up checklist
  • Observe rough-in construction for compliance with plans, specs, and details
  • Project primary client technical contact
  • Develop bid documentation for Electrical, Automation, and Low Voltage (network, security) vendors
  • Documents specifications and operating procedures
  • Interface and manage installation contractors during construction
  • Researching Automation/Controls materials and best practices
  • Supporting talent growth within our organization
  • Provide coaching and/or mentoring to a subordinate group when directed by supervisor.

Required Education Skills and Experience

  • Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field
  • 8+ years of experience with Allen Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, GE Fanuc, Honeywell Systems.
  • 8+ years of experience in Visual Basic, SQL, MS ACCESS Database programming skills a plus
  • 8+ years of experience with Design and implement process network infrastructure (Ethernet, Device Net, Control Net, ProfiBus, etc.)
  • 8+ years of experience in an industrial manufacturing setting
  • Database programming skills a plus
  • Proficiency with MS Office and AutoCAD Required
  • This role is client facing, those successful in this role are professional, self-motivated, and energetic individuals with excellent communication and inter-personal skills.
  • Must meet travel requirement - you will spend significant time in our client's facilities during installation and startup/commissioning/qualification phases of a project – 35% to 50% of any given time of the year.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking during installation, commissioning and startup.
  • Must be able to lift-up to 30 pounds at times.

Travel Requirement

  • Up to 50% travel required to visit project site and other offices.

About Us

We plan, design, engineer, and build food plants for major brands across the country and the world. For the past three decades, we’ve focused exclusively on the food and beverage industry, helping your favorite brands put your favorite foods in the grocery store. Simply put, food isn’t one thing we do, it’s all we do.

Dennis Group offers competitive compensation packages commensurate with experience. We provide comprehensive employee benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off including an open vacation policy, as well as bonus, profit-sharing, and retirement plans.

Dennis Group is proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.