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Motor Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Motor Controls Integration Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

$85K - $111K/yr

Work with Controls Engineers and Embedded Software Engineers to test and verify the functionality of motor controls and inverter software features across vehicle dynamics, infotainment, connectivity ...

Motor Controls Engineer II

San Diego, CA

$88K - $114K/yr

What You Will Do Raytheon's Effector Analog & Power (EAP) Team is looking for junior to mid-career engineers who have electronics knowledge to help design robust motor control systems. The EAP ...

Motor Controls Engineer II

Los Angeles, CA

$90K - $116K/yr

What You Will Do Raytheon's Effector Analog & Power (EAP) Team is looking for junior to mid-career engineers who have electronics knowledge to help design robust motor control systems. The EAP ...

Staff Motor Controls Integration Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

$85K - $111K/yr

Work with Controls Engineers and Embedded Software Engineers to test and verify the functionality of motor controls and inverter software features across vehicle dynamics, infotainment, connectivity ...

Staff Motor Controls Integration Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

$87K - $112K/yr

Work with Controls Engineers and Embedded Software Engineers to test and verify the functionality of motor controls and inverter software features across vehicle dynamics, infotainment, connectivity ...

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Showing results 1-20

Motor Controls information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$48

How much do motor controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for motor controls in California is $33.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is motor controls?

Motor controls refer to devices and systems used to manage the operation of electric motors. This includes starting, stopping, reversing, and protecting motors, as well as regulating their speed and torque. Motor controls can range from simple manual switches to complex automated systems using sensors and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). They are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of motors in a variety of industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in motor controls, and why are they important?

To excel in Motor Controls, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, motor operation, and circuit design, typically supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), variable frequency drives (VFDs), and electrical schematics is often required. Strong troubleshooting abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the reliable and safe operation of motor-driven systems in industrial and commercial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in motor controls, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Motor Controls often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex electrical systems, keeping up with evolving technology, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with industry training, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like maintenance and engineering, and utilizing diagnostic tools for efficient problem-solving. Additionally, proactively communicating with team members and regularly reviewing updated codes and standards helps ensure safe and effective operation of motor control systems.

What is the difference between Motor Controls vs Electricians?

AspectMotor ControlsElectricians
CertificationsTypically requires technical training or certifications in motor control systemsRequires electrical licenses and certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation systemsResidential, commercial, industrial electrical installations
Job FocusDesign, install, troubleshoot motor control circuits and systemsInstall, maintain, repair electrical wiring and systems

Motor Controls specialists focus on controlling and troubleshooting motor systems, often working with automation and control panels. Electricians handle a broader range of electrical work, including wiring and electrical system installation. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Motor Controls technicians specialize in motor-specific systems, making their skills complementary but distinct.

Is controls engineering a good career?

Controls engineering is a specialized field focused on designing and maintaining automated systems, often requiring knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and control algorithms. It offers strong job prospects in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors, with opportunities for advancement and certification. The role typically involves problem-solving, technical skills, and working in industrial environments.

What cities in California are hiring for Motor Controls jobs?

Cities in California with the most Motor Controls job openings:

Infographic showing various Motor Controls job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,737 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Senior Motor Controls Engineer

Anduril Industries

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,610 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for Senior Motor Controls Engineers to join the team! You will develop motor control and actuator firmware that spans across Anduril's fleet of autonomous vehicles on land, air, and sea. The ideal person for this role will have a blend of experience from both tech and defense environments and is looking to leverage their passion for motor controls, firmware, and low-level development here at Anduril.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Develop motion control systems for applications such as precision actuators and electric propulsion
  • Develop motor controls algorithms using Matlab / Simulink
  • Develop motor models and integrate with SITL systems
  • Integrate Simulink autocode algorithms with microcontroller C based RTOS and application
  • Assist with part selection, board and product design
  • Bring up new boards and toolchains
  • Support device manufacturing efforts and operational deployments
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, etc., or equivalent experience
  • Experience and formal training with classical control systems
  • Experience with Matlab and Simulink
  • Experience with motor control circuits and peripherals, such as drivers, encoders, and Hall sensors
  • Background in low-level firmware architecture, design and development in C
  • Experience with embedded ARM and motor control modules within ARM microcontrollers
  • Comfortable with typical embedded systems tools, compilers, debuggers and IDEs
  • Broad experience with microcontrollers, application processors, revision control systems
  • Familiarity with common bus protocols such as SPI, I2C, CAN, RS485, etc.
  • Strong debugging skills through use of instrumentation such as oscilloscopes and protocol analyzers
  • Application experience in areas such as robotics, automation, motor control, and sensor fusion
  • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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