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Mes Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Develop, deploy, and validate MES interfaces to production equipment * Build HMIs from scratch and ... Experience working as a Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Applications ...

Skydio is seeking a highly motivated Automation / Controls Engineer to design, implement, and ... Knowledge of MES integration and data systems * Experience with motion control systems and servo ...

Showing results 21-40

Mes Controls Engineer information

What is the difference between Mes Controls Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectMes Controls EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, PLC certifications, and knowledge of MES systemsRequires a degree in engineering or computer science, PLC and robotics certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, focusing on MES system integration and controlFactories, focusing on automation system design and implementation
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing to manage production data and workflowsUsed across industries to automate machinery and processes

The Mes Controls Engineer primarily focuses on integrating and managing Manufacturing Execution Systems within production environments, ensuring data flow and process control. In contrast, the Automation Engineer designs and implements automation solutions, including robotics and control systems. Both roles require technical skills and work in manufacturing settings, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What is a MES Controls Engineer?

MES Controls Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and maintain Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and their integration with industrial control systems. They bridge the gap between production-floor equipment and higher-level business systems, ensuring seamless data flow and process automation. Their responsibilities include configuring MES software, developing interfaces with PLCs and SCADA systems, troubleshooting, and optimizing manufacturing processes for efficiency and quality. MES Controls Engineers play a crucial role in digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

What are some common challenges faced by MES Controls Engineers when integrating new manufacturing equipment with existing MES systems?

MES Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new equipment and legacy MES platforms, managing data consistency, and minimizing production downtime during integration. They must carefully coordinate with IT, production, and automation teams to map control logic and data flows accurately. Troubleshooting unexpected communication issues and aligning equipment protocols with MES requirements are also typical hurdles. Effective planning, thorough testing, and clear cross-functional communication help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth system integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a MES Controls Engineer?

To excel as a MES Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), PLC programming, SCADA, and certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These competencies are critical to ensuring seamless integration, efficiency, and reliability in automated manufacturing environments.
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Infographic showing various Mes Controls Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Sr. Automation Controls Engineer

Archer

San Jose, CA โ€ข On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Archer is an aerospace company based in San Jose, California building an all-electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft with a mission to advance the benefits of sustainable air mobility. We are designing, manufacturing, and operating an all-electric aircraft that can carry four passengers while producing minimal noise.
Our sights are set high and our problems are hard, and we believe that diversity in the workplace is what makes us smarter, drives better insights, and will ultimately lift us all to success. We are dedicated to cultivating an equitable and inclusive environment that embraces our differences, and supports and celebrates all of our team members.
About The Role:
As part of Archer's mission to scale production of our cutting-edge eVTOL aircraft, we are seeking an Sr. Automation Controls Engineer to help design and build manufacturing automation at scale. This role goes beyond maintaining existing lines-it's about architecting intelligent manufacturing systems from the ground up. We're looking for a hands-on technical engineer who thrives on turning complex designs into reliable, scalable solutions, bridging the gap between early R&D concepts and flight-ready hardware.
The primary objective of this role is to collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop innovative machine and process concepts. You will lead the full controls system lifecycle, including programming PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and servo drives. In addition, this role involves drafting detailed electrical schematics and overseeing the procurement and fabrication of electrical control panels.
What You'll Do:
  • Assist in the development of high-volume production systems, from early process feasibility studies through scalable production
  • Contribute to the development of Equipment Development Standards and templates to drive hardware and software standardization across the factory
  • Partner with external system integrators to deliver equipment that meets Archer standards and specifications
  • Provide machine design feedback from an electrical, controls, and machine/operator safety perspective; drive implementation with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, Archer standards, equipment specifications, and field labeling
  • Support installation, commissioning, and qualification of new equipment and tooling alongside system integrators
  • Develop, deploy, and validate MES interfaces to production equipment
  • Build HMIs from scratch and improve existing HMIs, with a focus on ignition and V8 systems
  • Support in-line troubleshooting of electrical systems, control panels, field devices, and safety interlock circuits
  • Develop comprehensive handoff packages for production and sustaining engineering teams
  • Support continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to improve quality, increase throughput, and reduce cost
  • Specify and select controls and safety hardware, and program devices for prototype lines and internally developed equipment

What You Need:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, or equivalent hands-on automation experience
  • 6+ years of hands-on experience in an industrial automation, controls, or manufacturing equipment environment
  • Experience working as a Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Applications Engineer, or Equipment Engineer
  • Hands-on PLC programming experience, including:
    • Allen-Bradley (primary)
    • Beckhoff (nice-to-have)
    • Siemens (nice-to-have / future-focused)
  • Ability to modify existing PLC programs and/or develop logic from scratch
  • Experience supporting automated manufacturing equipment or production lines
  • Strong hands-on electrical troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to read and understand electrical schematics
  • Experience using AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN (both acceptable)
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP or equivalent)
  • Experience developing or supporting HMI systems
  • Ignition experience is a plus, not required
  • Exposure to SQL databases for logging, recipes, or data exchange between PLCs and higher-level systems
  • Willingness to work onsite in a hands-on manufacturing environment
  • Ability to travel up to ~20% (primarily domestic, later-phase support)

Bonus Qualifications:
  • NFPA 70E certification
  • RIA certifications (e.g., Certified Vision Professional, Certified Motion Control Professional)
  • Hands-on experience with battery module and/or pack manufacturing
  • Experience with PFMEA development
  • Experience with NX and Teamcenter

Please note that this job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position and does not include an exhaustive list of responsibilities and qualifications.
At Archer we aim to attract, retain, and motivate talent that possess the skills and leadership necessary to grow our business. We drive a pay-for-performance culture and reward performance that supports the Company's business strategy. For this position we are targeting a base pay between $126,700 - $158,400. Actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Archer is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to job applicants with physical or mental disabilities, and those with sincerely held religious beliefs. Applicants who may require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should provide their name and contact information to Archer's People Team at people@archer.com. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Information collected and processed as part of any job applications you choose to submit is subject to Archer's Candidate Privacy Policy.
Archer is unable to provide work visa sponsorship for this position at the present time.
Archer is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
Archer Aviation does not engage with external recruiting agencies/individual recruiters with whom it does not have a prior written agreement. Archer reserves the right to make use of any unsolicited resumes that it receives and bears no responsibility for payment of any fees asserted from the use of unsolicited resumes. If you are a recruiting agency or individual recruiter wishing to do business with Archer, please reach out to People@archer.com. All employment processes are managed by the Archer People Team.