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Motion Control Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Salient Motion

Senior Responsible Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... engineering voice for our precision motion control products. You will own the technical integrity of assigned hardware from design release through certification and fielding - signing off on drawings ...

Unique Hardware Software Systems Company in Major Growth Mode

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Head of Engineering: MSEE with Electronic Power Supply, Power Motors a

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$175K - $225K/yr

This role requires a hands‐on technical leader with deep experience in motion control, servo systems, and engineered electromechanical products--paired with strong people‐management ...

Salient Motion

Senior Responsible Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

... engineering voice for our precision motion control products. You will own the technical integrity of assigned hardware from design release through certification and fielding - signing off on drawings ...

Prysmian Group

Process Control Engineer

Claremont, CA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

You'll combine process engineering, automation, data analytics, and continuous improvement to ... Familiarity with motion control systems, machine vision, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Cohu

Applications Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, control engineering or a related ... Understanding and/or working experience with thermal systems, motion control, control systems ...

Cohu

Applications Specialist

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$113K - $141K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, control engineering or a related ... Understanding and/or working experience with thermal systems, motion control, control systems ...

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All JobsMotion Control Engineering JobsMotion Control Engineering Jobs in California

Motion Control Engineering information

See California salary details

$76K

$87.2K

$96.7K

How much do motion control engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for motion control engineering in California is $87,242.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is motion control engineering?

Motion control engineering is a field focused on the design and implementation of systems that control the movement of machines or mechanical systems. This often involves the use of motors, actuators, sensors, and controllers to achieve precise positioning, speed, and acceleration in applications such as robotics, manufacturing automation, and aerospace. Motion control engineers work with both hardware and software to develop efficient, reliable movement solutions. Their work is critical in industries where accurate and repeatable movement is required.

What are some common challenges faced by motion control engineers when integrating new automation systems into existing manufacturing environments?

Motion control engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new automation components and legacy systems, minimizing downtime during integration, and maintaining precise synchronization across various machines. Troubleshooting communication protocols and adapting control algorithms to fit unique production requirements can also be complex. Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as maintenance and software engineers, is essential to address these challenges and achieve a seamless integration process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a motion control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Motion Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with expertise in automation, robotics, and control systems. Familiarity with PLC programming, servo systems, CAD software, and relevant certifications (such as Certified Motion Control Professional) is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot complex systems. These competencies ensure precise, efficient, and reliable motion solutions critical to manufacturing and automation industries.

What is the difference between Motion Control Engineering vs Robotics Engineering?

AspectMotion Control EngineeringRobotics Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; certifications in automation or control systemsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering; certifications in robotics or automation
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, R&D labsResearch labs, manufacturing, autonomous systems development
Industry UsageAutomation, CNC machines, industrial equipmentAutonomous robots, drones, robotic arms
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Motion Control Engineering focuses on designing and implementing systems that precisely control movement in machinery and automation equipment. Robotics Engineering encompasses the broader development of robotic systems, including sensors, control algorithms, and mechanical design. While both roles require control system knowledge and similar credentials, Motion Control Engineers specialize in movement precision within industrial settings, whereas Robotics Engineers work on creating autonomous and interactive robotic systems.

What are popular job titles related to Motion Control Engineering jobs in California?

For Motion Control Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Motion Control Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Motion Control Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Motion Control Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Motion Control Engineering job openings:

Motion Control Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Motion Control Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,242 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Senior Data & Control Systems Engineer

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA • On-site

$175K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Relativity Space rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

About the Team: 

The Factory Test team designs, builds, and operates the infrastructure needed to test nearly every part of Terran R right here at our headquarters in Long Beach, CA. This centralized approach provides engineers and technicians with exposure to the entire product lifecycle across a wide range of part sizes and complexities. The scope and scale are significant, with test stands capable of handling millions of pounds of force. Team members lead multiple projects in parallel, avoiding silos and gaining broad technical experience without needing a background in aerospace. With high-impact campaigns ahead, now is the time to join. You won't just execute, but you'll help shape and scale the test infrastructure required to meet the demands of a rapidly growing launch program.

About the Role:

As a Data and Control System Hardware Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, build, and integration of data systems at our Long Beach facilities. When working with standard low voltage control and instrumentation, you will design robust systems that can be integrated and operated by engineers without an electrical background. For high voltage or more unique applications, you will be responsible for designing a complete solution and training future operators. You will be required to be hands on with the hardware, working side-by-side with our technician team to build and debug your projects.  We want all of our engineers to be multidisciplinary, and you will have frequent opportunities to branch into operations and test planning roles.

Your projects will span a variety of construction methods, sizes, and applications. These could include anything from portable data systems to large motion control cabinets. The kinds of hardware you will design and work with may include:

  • Motion Control Systems
  • AC / DC Power Distribution Systems
  • Wiring Harnesses
  • Portable Data Systems
  • PCB's (signal routing and power management focus)
  • Motor and Pump Control Cabinets

About You:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience developing, activating, and troubleshooting electrical systems. Preferably in a highly cross-functional environment
  • Strong electrical engineering fundamental knowledge
  • Experience designing and working with high voltage DC electronics
  • Demonstrated ability to identify and mitigate risks in complex systems
  • No previous aerospace experience is required

Nice to haves but not required:  

  • Familiarity with data and control systems (SCADA, PLC's, NI, Beckhoff, etc.)
  • Familiar with scripting languages such as Python or MATLAB for preforming analysis or writing automation tools.
  • Comfortable using schematic capture and PCB design tools such as Altium.
  • Familiar with communications methods such as, but not limited to, SPI, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN, and Modbus.

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