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Plc Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Controls Engineer

Monterey, CA

$96K - $123K/yr

Troubleshoot control systems wiring, PLC / SCADA logic, PLCs, and calibrations, both for issues ... Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automated controls, or ...

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Controls Engineer

Monterey, CA · On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

Troubleshoot control systems wiring, PLC / SCADA logic, PLCs, and calibrations, both for issues ... Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automated controls, or ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · Hybrid

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... Develops control logic software and user interface applications for PLC, SCADA, and HMI. Scripted ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... Develops control logic software and user interface applications for PLC, SCADA, and HMI. Scripted ...

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ... Architect, write, and debug PLC code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized ...

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ... Architect, write, and debug PLC code with an emphasis on generating code that is organized ...

The LaSalle Group

Controls Engineer

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Hands-on PLC programming experience (RSLogix, FactoryTalk, Siemens, etc.) * Experience with HMI ... Familiarity with VFDs, motion controls and industrial communication protocols * Ability to read ...

CYNET SYSTEMS

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$46 - $51/hr

PLC programming experience with Rockwell, Mitsubishi, and Siemens platforms. * Electrical hardware ... Equivalent work experience in controls engineering and industrial automation. Founded in 2010 and ...

California Natural Products

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team ... Provide machine support including but not limited to safety controllers, PLC's, HMI's, robots ...

Gehl Food & Beverage

Controls Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer Reports To: Engineering Manager Salary Range: 110K - 130K Why join our team ... Provide machine support including but not limited to safety controllers, PLC's, HMI's, robots ...

Raya Workforce

Principal Controls Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Develop and maintain PLC and SCADA programs. * Implement safety systems and controls best practices ... Strong PLC programming skills using Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and/or Function Blocks.

Giga Energy

Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K - $127K/yr

What you'll do As a Controls Engineer at Giga, you will own the design, development, and ... From PLC/HMI programming and panel design to control schematics and I/O architecture, you'll be the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPlc Controls Engineer JobsPlc Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Plc Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.8K

$90.8K

$122.4K

How much do plc controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc controls engineer in California is $90,822.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PLC controls engineer?

PLC Controls Engineers are professionals who design, program, and maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used to automate industrial processes. They develop control systems that allow machinery and production lines to operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting issues, upgrading systems, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. PLC Controls Engineers often work closely with other engineers and technicians to optimize manufacturing operations.

What does a PLC controls engineer do?

As a PLC controls engineer, your primary responsibilities include the setup, programming, testing, and implementation of computer control systems used for production automation and industrial equipment design. Your duties are to implement programs on programmable logic controllers and test whether industrial computers process information and function correctly. You debug issues and troubleshoot problems that have non-standard solutions. In this role, you also assess the functionality of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems and may work in numerous fields, including aviation, robotics, energy production, and manufacturing.

How much does a Plc Controls Engineer earn?

A PLC Controls Engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized engineers with certifications and extensive skills in PLC programming and automation may earn higher salaries. Compensation can also include benefits such as overtime, bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

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

To thrive as a PLC Controls Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering, automation systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking is essential, and certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are critical for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated processes to ensure efficiency and reliability in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Plc Controls Engineer vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc Controls EngineerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Automation Engineering, PLC certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, PLC training
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in industrial settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of automation equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, process control, automation firmsFactory floors, maintenance departments

The Plc Controls Engineer focuses on designing and programming PLC systems, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles installation and troubleshooting, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in industrial automation but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are Plc Controls Engineers in demand?

Plc Controls Engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, processing, and industrial facilities. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, electrical systems, and control hardware, and job opportunities are expected to grow as industries continue to automate processes.

What are some typical challenges a PLC controls engineer might face when working on a new automation project?

PLC Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with existing machinery, troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior, and ensuring minimal downtime during installation or upgrades. Communication with cross-functional teams—including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production managers—is essential to align project goals and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and keeping up with the latest PLC programming standards are common aspects of the role.
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Plc Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Controls Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,822 per year, or $43.7 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Durin Mining Technologies Corp.

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Durin was founded under the belief that raw materials should not be a constraint on civilization's progress. We are actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of becoming the foundation of the global supply chain.
We're looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who wants to own the brains of our next-generation drill rigs, building the PLC logic that makes heavy equipment safe, reliable, and ready for autonomy.
Durin builds and operates automated drill rigs to accelerate mineral discovery.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
    • Architect and program PLC logic for drill cycle sequencing, safety interlocks, mud mixing, spindle/feed coordination, and rod handling.
    • Implement state machines, PID loops, and interlock matrices in IEC 61131-3 languages (Structured Text, Ladder, FBD).
    • Commission control systems on physical rigs: wiring checkout, I/O validation, drive tuning, field debugging.
    • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to define sensor/actuator requirements and ensure reliable integration.
    • Design alarm handling, recovery routines, and HMI interfaces for drillers.
    • Ensure compliance with industrial safety standards (STO, SIL, lockout/tagout).
    • Support networking and fieldbus integration (EtherCAT, CANopen, OPC UA).
    • Mentor embedded/software teammates on PLC fundamentals and best practices.
    • Travel to test sites for commissioning and field support (~20-50%).

WHO YOU ARE
    • 5+ years of experience programming and commissioning industrial PLCs (Beckhoff, Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or similar).
    • Deep familiarity with IEC 61131-3 languages, especially Structured Text and Ladder.
    • Hands-on experience commissioning machinery with hydraulics, servos, and safety interlocks.
    • Strong knowledge of fieldbuses (EtherCAT, CAN, Profibus, Modbus) and industrial networking.
    • Experience tuning closed-loop systems (PID, torque/force control).
    • Comfort working in rugged field environments with heavy equipment.
    • Strong debugging instincts and ability to rapidly troubleshoot I/O, sensors, and motion issues.
    • "Get it working, get it safe, then get it elegant" mindset.

Bonus Points For:
    • Experience with drilling rigs, mining equipment, robotics, or other heavy machinery.
    • Knowledge of safety PLCs, SIL/PL standards, and functional safety certification.
    • Background in both PLC controls + embedded/robotics software.
    • Prior work on automation systems that integrate with edge/cloud telemetry.

$150,000 - $180,000 a year
COMPENSATION
This role will pay $150,000-$180,000, plus equity, so you have a real stake in Durin's success. Everyone is an owner, so as the company grows, your equity grows too.
Aside from base compensation, we invest heavily in our team. You'll have the freedom and resources to try new things and iterate quickly. We're a high-growth company without middle management, which means fast decision making and the ability for you to own major initiatives from day one.
We also offer 100% healthcare coverage (medical, dental, vision), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are paid for when you're at headquarters, and we can help you find housing nearby.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
• Must be willing to work from our headquarters in El Segundo
• Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed

Apply