1

Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Industrial Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

Industrial Controls Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Provide support for selecting, installing, operating, and troubleshooting instruments and controls associated with utility systems which may include fire protection * Collaborate with engineering ...

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 ...

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$111K - $145K/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 ...

Responsibilities : * Sell DMG equipment, lab controls projects , service offerings directly to owners. * Actively pursue new business opportunities by identifying potential customers and ...

New

You will be required to collaborate across Software Controls and Chassis organizations, bringing teams together to solve engineering challenges. You will have the chance to develop robust, real-time ...

You will be required to collaborate across Software Controls and Chassis organizations, bringing teams together to solve engineering challenges. You will have the chance to develop robust, real-time ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 8, 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.

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 $200,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation and control systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles are often found in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, where complex systems and advanced technical expertise are required.

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 control engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Skills in troubleshooting, programming, and understanding system integration are essential in this role.
What job categories do people searching Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
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 Design-Engineer, PE

HVAC Controls Design-Engineer, PE

Gulfstream Strategic Placements

Orange, CA • On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

HVAC Controls Design-Engineer, PE job in Orange County, CA This is a permanent, full time position with a great salary and benefits package. Responsibilities: Build accurate designs and engineering drawings for integrated controls systems in new construction and pre-existing retrofit projects Complete Design, Engineering, and Coordination for upcoming Controls projects Prepare construction documents, detailed drawings, and specs for projects Complete site surveys and review shop drawings Requirements: Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and PE License CAD, Revit, and EnergyPro experience 5+ years of HVAC Controls Design and Engineering experience working on large controls projects Local Stable work-history


Gulfstream Strategic Placements logo

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

Social media