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Sr Automation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr Automation Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$120K - $157K/yr

JSat Automation is hiring a Senior/ Lead Automation Engineer with Emerson DeltaV and Syncade experience. Requirements * Proven experience as a Senior Automation Engineer with increased levels of ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Salinas, CA · On-site

$111K - $146K/yr

Job Title Senior Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that "Better Never Settles." We're dedicated to creating a positive impact globally, and we're looking ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Rialto, CA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

Job Title Senior Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that "Better Never Settles." We're dedicated to creating a positive impact globally, and we're looking ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Tracy, CA · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Moreno Valley, CA · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Senior Automation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$149K - $209K/yr

What you will be doing We are hiring a Senior Automation Engineer to scale our manufacturing capabilities by automating assembly and test processes, enabling higher throughput, improved quality, and ...

Job Title: Sr. Automation Engineer Job Location: Oakland, CA Job Type: Contract * 12+ years of experience * Strong experience with ASP.NET & Selenium, minimum 7 years or more * Design, develop, and ...

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will collaborate with scientists, software engineers, and microscopy engineers to build and develop high quality automated systems and protocols. You will be a ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

A brief overview The Sr. Automation Engineer manages automation systems and projects within a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment, conducting design evaluations and recommending ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

A brief overview The Sr. Automation Engineer manages automation systems and projects within a regulated pharmaceutical manufacturing environment, conducting design evaluations and recommending ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sr Automation Engineer information

See California salary details

$50.8K

$120.3K

$165.8K

How much do sr automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr automation engineer in California is $120,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,600.00 and $134,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sr Automation Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSr Automation EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Engineering or Computer Science, often with certifications in automation toolsBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentTypically in mid to large tech or manufacturing companies, leading automation projectsEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries, supporting automation tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, software, and industrial sectors for complex automationCommon in manufacturing and software industries for developing and maintaining automation systems

The main difference between a Sr Automation Engineer and an Automation Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The senior role involves leading projects, designing complex automation solutions, and mentoring junior staff, while the automation engineer focuses on implementing and maintaining automation systems under supervision.

What is a Sr Automation Engineer?

A Sr Automation Engineer is a senior-level professional who designs, develops, and implements automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in various industries, such as manufacturing, software, or IT operations. They typically have extensive experience in automation tools, programming, and systems integration. These engineers lead projects, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize workflows and troubleshoot complex automation issues. Their work often results in cost savings, reduced manual labor, and improved consistency in operations.

What are some common challenges Sr Automation Engineers face when implementing automation solutions in established production environments?

Sr Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, ensuring minimal downtime during deployments, and navigating resistance to change from operations teams. Effective communication and thorough testing are critical to address these issues. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams—including IT, production, and quality assurance—helps mitigate risks and ensures a smooth transition to automated processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Automation Engineer?

To thrive as a Sr Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in automation systems, programming (such as Python or PLC languages), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industrial control systems, SCADA, robotics platforms, and certifications like ISA or Six Sigma are typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you collaborate across teams and drive complex automation projects. These skills ensure efficient system performance, minimize downtime, and enable successful implementation of advanced automation solutions.
What cities in California are hiring for Sr Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Sr Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sr Automation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,258 per year, or $57.8 per hour.

Sr Automation Engineer

JSat Automation

Oakland, CA • On-site

$120K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description


JSat Automation is hiring a Senior/ Lead Automation Engineer with Emerson DeltaV and Syncade experience.
Requirements
  • Proven experience as a Senior Automation Engineer with increased levels of responsibility
  • 5+ years' experience designing, implementing and supporting manufacturing automation solutions
  • Client facing role with excellent communication and customer orientation skills
  • Interact with client personnel to identify and analyze continuous improvement through automation upgrades.
  • Manage, document, and implement these upgrades through changes control procedures.
  • Execute capital projects including; Control system software development, Control system hardware design, Network design, MES system implementation, Recipe management, User requirement specification development, Process equipment installations, SOP development and training on Automation Systems.
  • Troubleshoot, analyze, and resolve field control system issues.
  • Develop, review, and / or execute automation qualification and validation protocols.
  • Manage automation projects through effective financial and schedule control.
  • Pharmaceutical and/or Biotechnology industry experience desired.
  • Good knowledge of GAMP lifecycle and quality management processes employed with the Life Science Industry.
  • Leadership abilities works well in a team environment.
  • Requires a Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in Chemical, Electrical, Computer Science or Bio-Process Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years' Emerson DeltaV Batch experience required.
  • 5+ years' Syncade experience required.
  • Experience in Control Systems such as Allen Bradley, Foxboro, Siemens, and Honeywell.
  • Experience with SCADA, MES, and database systems are required any experience with computer system validation is a plus.

Benefits
Full Benefits, 401k and PTO