ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CEI

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer Job at a Glance * Title: Senior Controls Engineer * Location: Anaheim, CA (onsite) * Hours: First Shift, 5 am to 2 pm PST * Contract: W2 only, 24-month contract with ...

Visium Resources, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer provides advanced technical expertise in the field deployment, troubleshooting, sustainment, and optimization of Resort's lighting control, HVAC, Energy Management System ...

Generac

Senior Controls Engineer

Burbank, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer serves as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system projects within the Generac Microgrid Controls Team. This role owns projects endtoend-from sales ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

GILLIG

Senior Controls Engineer

Livermore, CA

$113K - $150K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who will lead the development of control algorithms for critical body functions across all vehicle platforms. You will be directly ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

GILLIG

Senior Controls Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who will lead the development of control algorithms for critical body functions across all vehicle platforms. You will be directly ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Sonoma, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Milpitas, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

GILLIG

Senior Controls Engineer

Livermore, CA

$113K - $150K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE We are looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who will lead the development of control algorithms for critical body functions across all vehicle platforms. You will be directly ...

E Tech Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Sonoma, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems ...

Amtec Direct Hire

Be Seen First

Senior Controls Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

The Senior Systems Controls Engineer will have a proven background in automation control, electrical engineering, and software development. Responsibilities: Conceptual and detailed controls design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in California

Senior Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$71.1K

$113.2K

$152K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in California is $113,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $126,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Controls Engineers?

Senior Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, or automation equipment. They are responsible for programming controllers (such as PLCs), troubleshooting control system issues, and ensuring optimal system performance and safety. Senior Controls Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to integrate new technologies. Their expertise is crucial for streamlining production, reducing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

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

AspectSenior Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, troubleshooting, project leadership in industrial or manufacturing settingsImplementing control systems, programming, testing, and maintenance in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles within the same sectors

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Controls Engineers typically lead projects, design complex systems, and mentor junior staff, while Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior role involves more leadership and advanced technical skills.

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

To thrive as a Senior Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and several years of experience in industrial automation. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and excellent communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex control systems, which are critical for operational safety, efficiency, and project success.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities a Senior Controls Engineer can expect to handle in a manufacturing environment?

As a Senior Controls Engineer in a manufacturing setting, you can expect to lead the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA. Your responsibilities often include overseeing control system upgrades, optimizing equipment for efficiency, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, production, and IT—to implement solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives. Managing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers are also common aspects of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in California? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in CA? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,222 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

CEI

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Senior Controls Engineer

Job at a Glance

  • Title: Senior Controls Engineer
  • Location: Anaheim, CA (onsite)
  • Hours: First Shift, 5 am to 2 pm PST
  • Contract: W2 only, 24-month contract with potential for conversion
  • Pay: $85-95/hour + medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match
Overview

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer with deep expertise in HVAC controls, Building Automation Systems (BAS/BMS), and Energy Management Systems (EMS) to support a large-scale entertainment and facilities environment.

This role is heavily focused on design, commissioning, and long-term sustainment of building systems across a complex campus. You will play a critical role in optimizing system performance, leading field investigations, and supporting ongoing operations of HVAC and facility automation systems.

Key Responsibilities

  • HVAC Controls Engineering & Commissioning: Lead hands-on troubleshooting, commissioning, and optimization of HVAC and building automation systems across a large campus environment.

  • BAS/BMS System Design & Sustainment: Design, enhance, and support BAS/BMS infrastructure, including system architecture, sequences of operation, and long-term system performance.

  • Energy Management & Optimization: Support EMS platforms, analyze system trends, and implement improvements to increase energy efficiency and operational reliability.

  • Field Diagnostics & Technical Leadership: Perform advanced field investigations, root cause analysis, and system diagnostics; lead complex troubleshooting efforts.

  • Controls Software & Visualization: Develop and optimize system interfaces including GUIs, dashboards, alarming, and reporting tools for facility systems.

  • Controls Documentation & Standards: Own technical documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and sequences of operation throughout system lifecycle.

  • System Integration: Integrate BAS/BMS platforms with enterprise analytics, monitoring, and reporting systems.

  • Panel Design Oversight (UL508A): Support or oversee control panel design ensuring compliance with UL508A and electrical standards.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with engineering, IT, facilities, and vendors to deliver system improvements and capital projects.

  • Mentorship & Guidance: Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineers and operations teams.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field
  • 5+ years of experience with HVAC controls and building automation systems (BAS/BMS)
  • Proven experience with:
    • HVAC controls design, commissioning, and sustainment
    • Building automation systems (BAS/BMS)
    • Energy Management Systems (EMS)
  • Strong experience with BAS platforms such as:
    • Johnson Controls Metasys
    • Siemens Desigo
    • Schneider EcoStruxure
    • Tridium Niagara
    • Honeywell / Distech
  • Experience developing:
    • GUIs, dashboards, alarming, and system visualization tools
  • Understanding of:
    • BACnet and building controls networking
    • Electrical distribution systems and power monitoring
  • Experience leading projects and working cross-functionally in large facilities environments
Preferred Qualifications
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • Experience in large-scale facilities such as:
    • Theme parks
    • Hospitals
    • Universities
    • Airports
    • Data centers
  • Familiarity with lighting controls and facility-wide automation systems
Nice-to-Have (Not Core Focus)
  • PLCs / SCADA systems
  • Modbus or industrial protocols outside of BAS
  • Power monitoring systems

#ZR
#INDGEN