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Smart Factory Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

United Airlines

SCADA Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$74K - $148K/yr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support Industry 4.0 and smart factory initiatives. * Troubleshoot and optimize SCADA systems for performance, reliability, and scalability. * Participate ...

RTX

Manufacturing Engineering II

Riverside, CA · On-site

$75K - $144K/yr

Support adoption of smart factory technologies including real-time dashboards and digital work instructions. Qualifications you Must Have * Typically requires a University Degree or equivalent ...

Collins Aerospace

Manufacturing Engineering II

Riverside, CA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Support adoption of smart factory technologies including real-time dashboards and digital work instructions. Qualifications you Must Have * Typically requires a University Degree or equivalent ...

Prattwhitney

Manufacturing Engineering II

Riverside, CA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Support adoption of smart factory technologies including real-time dashboards and digital work instructions. Qualifications you Must Have * Typically requires a University Degree or equivalent ...

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All JobsSmart Factory JobsSmart Factory Jobs in California

Smart Factory information

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How much do smart factory jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for smart factory in California is $16.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a smart factory?

A Smart Factory is a highly digitalized and connected production facility that relies on advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and big data analytics to optimize manufacturing processes. In a Smart Factory, machines and systems are interconnected, enabling real-time data sharing and automated decision-making. This results in improved efficiency, productivity, and flexibility, as well as reduced downtime and costs. Smart Factories are a key component of Industry 4.0, representing the future of manufacturing.

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

To thrive as a Smart Factory Engineer, you need a solid background in industrial engineering, automation, and data analytics, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial IoT platforms, robotics, and certifications like Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing is typically required. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-functional communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These capabilities are crucial for optimizing production processes, ensuring operational efficiency, and driving innovation in highly automated manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a smart factory environment?

Professionals in Smart Factories often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy equipment, managing and securing large volumes of data, and adapting to rapidly changing automation systems. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams—including IT, engineering, and production—is crucial to address these issues effectively. Additionally, staying current with emerging digital tools and maintaining cybersecurity standards can be demanding but offers significant opportunities for professional growth and innovation.

What is the difference between Smart Factory vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSmart FactoryAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in IoT, Industry 4.0Engineering degree, certifications in control systems, PLC programming
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, integrated digital systemsIndustrial settings, control rooms, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageIndustry 4.0, smart manufacturingAutomation, control systems, robotics

Smart Factory refers to a highly integrated, digital manufacturing environment utilizing IoT and Industry 4.0 technologies. Automation Engineers focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems like PLCs and robotics. While both roles operate within manufacturing settings and require technical credentials, Smart Factory encompasses a broader digital transformation concept, whereas Automation Engineers specialize in automation system development and maintenance.

What happens in a smart factory?

A smart factory uses advanced technologies like automation, sensors, and data analytics to optimize manufacturing processes. It enables real-time monitoring, improved efficiency, and flexible production through interconnected systems and IoT devices, often requiring skills in programming, data analysis, and equipment operation.

What are popular job titles related to Smart Factory jobs in California?

For Smart Factory jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Smart Factory jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Smart Factory jobs in California are:

Smart Factory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Smart Factory job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,615 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Sr Director, Global Manufacturing Strategy

Aliso Viejo, CA • On-site

MicroVention
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about MicroVentionexternal

$214K - $281K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description


As a global leader working with the Global Manufacturing Leadership team, assist in developing and executing the Company's long term manufacturing strategy. Oversee future production ecosystem, driving transformation across Smart Factory, AI Manufacturing, global network design, and organizational scalability. Oversee manufacturing network modeling, global manufacturing network expansion, strategic program management, business excellence governance, and production line industrial engineering transformation across the Organization's global operations. Play a critical role in shaping the next generation of the Company's manufacturing capabilities. Job duties:
Manufacturing Strategy Development & Vision Setting
  • Partner with Global Manufacturing Leadership to develop and deploy the long-term manufacturing strategy, ensuring alignment with corporate growth objectives and global operational needs.
  • Establish clear vision and direction for digital transformation, network evolution, and organizational scalability.
  • Translate strategic insights into actionable roadmaps for global manufacturing excellence.
Smart Factory & AI Manufacturing Leadership
  • Lead enterprise-wide Smart Factory initiatives, integrating automation, digital systems, and advanced analytics.
  • Drive adoption of AI Manufacturing technologies, including predictive quality, intelligent process control, and machine learning based optimization.
  • Partner with IT, Engineering, and Operations to deploy scalable digital platforms across global sites.
Manufacturing Network Modeling & Global Expansion
  • Oversee global manufacturing network modeling, including capacity planning, scenario simulation, risk assessment, and make vs buy assessments.
  • Lead global manufacturing network expansion, including site strategy, capability deployment, and long-term footprint optimization.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, regional opportunities, and supply chain shifts to inform future network design.
Strategic Program Management & Governance
  • Direct multiyear, cross functional strategic programs that modernize the Company's manufacturing capabilities.
  • Establish and refine business excellence governance, ensuring clear decision frameworks, accountability, and performance metrics.
  • Perform executive reporting and program management for global transformation initiatives.
Production Line Industrial Engineering Transformation
  • Lead transformation of production line industrial engineering, including group technology manufacturing strategies, digital work instructions, and lean manufacturing enhancements.
  • Standardize industrial engineering practices across global sites to improve throughput, quality, and cost efficiency.
  • Champion continuous improvement and operational excellence methodologies.
Organizational Scalability & Leadership
  • Mentor and develop high performing teams across engineering, operations, and strategy functions.
  • Influence senior leadership through data driven insights and strategic recommendations.
  • Comply with applicable Laws and Regulations, adhere to Quality Management System processes and requirements as well as demonstrate Ethics and Integrity in all matters and at all levels throughout the organization.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  1. Bachelor's degree in engineering, Science, or Operations Management.
  2. Minimum fifteen (15) years of experience in medical device global manufacturing strategy, operations, industrial engineering, or related fields.
  3. Minimum seven (7) years of leadership or management responsibility.
  4. Knowledge in Smart Factory, AI Manufacturing, or digital transformation initiatives.
  5. Expertise in manufacturing network modeling, global footprint strategy, and multi-site operations.
  6. Strong background in strategic program management and enterprise governance.
  7. Experience leading production line industrial engineering or group technology transformation.
  8. Experience in operations management and leading global product line transfers.
  9. Direct global manufacturing site responsibilities.
  10. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  11. Proficient with MS Office Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
Desired Qualifications
  1. Master's degree in engineering, Operations, or Business.
  2. Experience in AI and Smart Factory implementation.
EEO
We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.
Fair Chance Ordinance
If you are applying to perform work for Terumo Neuro in any position which will involve performing at least two (2) hours of work on average each week within the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, you can find here a list of all material job duties of the specific job position which Terumo Neuro reasonably believes that criminal history may have a direct, adverse and negative relationship potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment.
Terumo Neuro will consider for employment qualified job applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.
Salary Range
$214,853 - $281,995 (Financial compensation packages may be higher/lower than listed, & will ultimately depend on factors including relevant experience, internal equity, skillset, knowledge, geography, education, business needs and market demand)

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