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Principal Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Raya Workforce

Principal Controls Engineer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Principal Controls Engineer Location : Petaluma, CA Work Type : Fulltime/Onsite Work Authorization : Only US Citizens/Green Card Holders Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Principal ...

Raymond West

Principal Control Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$81K - $140K/yr

Raymond West is seeking a skilled and motivated Principal Controls Engineer to join our Systems ... The Controls Engineer will lead development projects for the team to develop novel solutions for ...

Bausch+Lomb Companies Inc.

The Principal Automation Systems & Controls Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for the design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems and manufacturing ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Roseville, CA · Hybrid

$85K - $125K/yr

This person will be responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control ... They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance.

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · Hybrid

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · Hybrid

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements: * Designs, develops ... They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance ...

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All JobsPrincipal Controls Engineer JobsPrincipal Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Principal Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$73K

$145.3K

$209.7K

How much do principal controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal controls engineer in California is $145,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,900.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Principal Controls Engineers face when managing complex automation projects?

Principal Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, ensuring that all safety and compliance standards are met, and coordinating across multidisciplinary teams. They must also address unexpected troubleshooting issues quickly to minimize downtime, and effectively communicate technical requirements to both engineering and non-technical stakeholders. Successfully managing these challenges requires strong leadership, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both hardware and software controls systems.

What is a Principal Controls Engineer?

A Principal Controls Engineer is a senior-level engineering professional responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing control systems used to operate machinery and processes in various industries. They lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and ensure that control systems meet safety, reliability, and efficiency standards. Principal Controls Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate new technologies, troubleshoot complex automation issues, and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Their work is critical in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and automotive, where precise control and automation are essential.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Principal Controls Engineers in specialized industries or senior leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in automation, robotics, or industrial control systems. High compensation often reflects leadership responsibilities, complex project management, and working in high-demand sectors such as aerospace or energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Controls Engineer, you need advanced expertise in control system design, automation engineering, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and industry standards like IEC 61131 is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and clear communication are critical soft skills for managing projects and mentoring teams. These competencies ensure the successful delivery of complex automation solutions, operational efficiency, and technical leadership within engineering organizations.

What does a principal controls engineer do?

A principal controls engineer designs, develops, and oversees control systems for industrial processes or machinery. They analyze system requirements, create control strategies, and often work with automation tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. This role typically requires strong technical skills, experience in control system design, and relevant certifications or degrees in engineering.

What engineers make 200,000 a year?

Principal Controls Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, with high-demand skills in automation, control systems, and project management often commanding higher salaries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Controls Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often correlates with working in high-demand industries, managing complex projects, or holding executive-level positions.

What is the difference between Principal Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Controls EngineerControls Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; PE license optional
Work EnvironmentLead projects, oversee design and implementation, coordinate teamsDesign, develop, and troubleshoot control systems under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in large-scale manufacturing, automation, and industrial facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process industries

The Principal Controls Engineer typically holds more experience, leads projects, and oversees teams, while Controls Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems. Both roles require similar technical credentials and are integral to automation projects, but the Principal role involves higher-level responsibilities and leadership.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California? For Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
Principal Controls Engineer jobs near you

Principal Controls Engineer

Raya Workforce

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$96K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Principal Controls Engineer
Location: Petaluma, CA
Work Type: Fulltime/Onsite
Work Authorization: Only US Citizens/Green Card Holders

Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Principal Controls Engineer to help develop, improve, and support advanced industrial process systems. This role involves designing and programming control systems, supporting field operations, troubleshooting equipment, and helping scale products from development to manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
•    Design, program, test, and troubleshoot control systems and controls hardware. 
•    Support pilot projects and field operations. 
•    Provide electrical and controls support for laboratory equipment. 
•    Assist with manufacturing and product development efforts. 
•    Improve system performance, reliability, and cost efficiency. 
•    Work with pumps, heaters, motors, instrumentation, and process equipment. 
•    Design control panels, wiring systems, and automation solutions. 
•    Support system startup, commissioning, and field troubleshooting. 
•    Develop and maintain PLC and SCADA programs. 
•    Implement safety systems and controls best practices.
Required Qualifications
•    Bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. 
•    Extensive experience in process control, power generation, combustion, manufacturing, multiphase fluid systems, or related industries. 
•    Hands-on experience troubleshooting industrial process equipment. 
•    Experience with safety system design and implementation. 
•    Experience with Siemens, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, AVEVA, or similar SCADA and controls platforms. 
•    Strong PLC programming skills using Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and/or Function Blocks. 
•    Experience with MODBUS, Profinet, and industrial communication protocols. 
•    Experience working with PLCs, HMIs, drives, I/O modules, and controls hardware. 
•    Experience with control panel and wiring design. 
•    Experience supporting field pilot operations. 
•    Experience working in industrial R&D environments, preferably with hardware-based products or startups. 
Preferred Qualifications
•    Experience with process and controls simulation. 
•    Leadership or team management experience. 
•    Experience with high-pressure and/or high-temperature systems such as SCWO, oil & gas, nuclear, or aerospace systems. 
•    Experience using Autodesk, SolidWorks, Ansys, Python, or similar engineering software. 
Ideal Candidate
•    Hands-on problem solver with strong troubleshooting skills. 
•    Detail-oriented and focused on quality and safety. 
•    Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. 
•    Able to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams. 
•    Self-driven, innovative, and capable of solving complex technical challenges. 
 
Benefits
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Equity/stock option opportunity
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and company holidays