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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Controls Engineer - PLC

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

PLC Controller programming using advanced techniques and HMI interfaces * Production, installation and commissioning of PLC systems * Integrated commissioning of the PLC systems * Documentation ...

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$111K - $146K/yr

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation professionals in Southern California. You will be responsible for designing and programming ...

Senior Project Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

About the Role We seek a Senior Project Controls Engineer to provide scheduling support services to our valued clients. This position will work with a team of professionals, including client project ...

CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation professionals in Southern California! You will be responsible for designing and programming ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$57.4K

$100.8K

$136.7K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Riverside, CA is $100,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,100.00 and $112,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable automation solutions in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on automation projects?

Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues, and ensuring that all control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve technical problems efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this role.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineers, including controls engineers, typically earn salaries below $500,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or executive roles reaching higher compensation. Achieving such a salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, leadership positions, or working in high-paying sectors like aerospace or energy. Most control engineers earn between $70,000 and $130,000 per year, depending on location and expertise.

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

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, electronics, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities and areas of expertise differ.

What are Controls Engineers?

Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems used to control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with hardware and software to ensure automated systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Controls Engineers often program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), develop control algorithms, and troubleshoot automation issues. Their work is critical in optimizing production processes and integrating new technologies within industrial environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve leadership responsibilities, working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing, and may require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced controls engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or advanced manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and profit sharing. These positions often require advanced skills in automation, programming, and certifications, along with extensive industry experience.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized control engineers with advanced skills in automation, PLC programming, and control systems may earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like manufacturing and energy.
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What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
HVAC Controls Engineer

$89K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

HVAC Controls Engineer position with a large HVAC controls company We are a large growing HVAC controls company that works on many complex and cutting-edge controls systems projects. This is a full-time position with great benefits, retirement package, and plenty of room for career growth. Responsibilities Provides field change information to the project team for the creation of as-built drawings and software.

Assume responsibility for coordinating with management and JCI contractor or customer informed of job progress, issues, advise cost effective solutions when cost effective solutions arise. Assist in training owner/operator in performing site-specific on the total building control system and validation of complete system functionality and troubleshoots problems with subcontractors and other trades to ensure proper operation Coordinate and create necessary drawings and equipment schedules for submittals, installation, orders, and tracks the delivery of materials for assigned projects. Designs, configure, develop, and tests software programs necessary to operate the system per the intent of the project requirements.

As well as flow diagrams, bill of material, network layouts, sequence of operations, and plans required. Requirements: Local Stable work-history. Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, or Construction Related Field 3+ years of experience working in the controls and HVAC industry.

Clear understanding of automatic temperature controls, control theory, building automation systems, and other building subsystems. Software knowledge in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, similar computer-related drafting tool software preferred.


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About Gulfstream Strategic Placements

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Gulfstream Strategic Placements, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is a prominent company specializing in the recruitment and executive search industry. Their area of specialty lies mainly in the construction industry. With a keen eye for talent and a focus on fulfilling employers' talent needs, Gulfstream Strategic Placements is an industry leader connecting various businesses with well-suited, skilled professionals. They take great pride in their long-standing reputation for delivering quality candidates that help businesses thrive.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Corona, CA, US

Year founded

2014

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