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Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$70 - $93/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Milpitas, 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

Job Responsibilities The Senior Controls Engineer will be responsible for applying engineering principles independently to all aspects of design, programming, installation, startup, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sr Controls Engineer information

See California salary details

$71.1K

$113.2K

$152K

How much do sr controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr 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 types of projects and cross-functional collaboration can a Sr Controls Engineer expect in this role?

As a Sr Controls Engineer, you will typically lead or contribute to projects involving the design, implementation, and optimization of automation systems. Collaboration is common with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, and operations personnel, to ensure seamless integration of control systems. You may also work closely with project managers and clients to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver solutions that align with production goals. This role often involves balancing technical problem-solving with strong communication skills to coordinate across departments.

What are Sr Controls Engineers?

Sr Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or other industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery operates efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming PLCs, troubleshooting system issues, leading projects, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Senior-level controls engineers also mentor junior staff and contribute to the strategic improvement of automation processes.

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

To thrive as a Sr Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems design, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant industry experience. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These qualifications ensure effective system integration, reliable automation solutions, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

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

AspectSr Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering; often 5+ years experience; certifications like PLC or automation certificationsBachelor's in relevant engineering; 1-3 years experience; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsSimilar industrial settings, project-based work, automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control industriesManufacturing, industrial automation, equipment design

The main difference between a Sr Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and expertise. Sr Controls Engineers typically have more years of experience, handle complex automation projects, and may mentor junior staff. Controls Engineers are often earlier in their careers, focusing on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles are vital in industrial automation and share similar work environments and industry applications.

What job categories do people searching Sr Controls Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Controls Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sr Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Sr Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sr Controls Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% 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

Senior Controls Engineer

CEI

Anaheim, CA

$101K - $134K/yr

Contractor

Posted 29 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

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