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Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will build a meaningful and fulfilling career with the support of professional development resources and mentorships including our First Year Experience program ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Crockett, CA · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

OVERVIEW The Sr. Packaging Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining instrumentation and control systems in support of plant production, quality, GMP and safety goals. This role designs and ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Role Overview CreateMe is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to design next generation automated manufacturing equipment for apparel assembly at our R&D lab and factory in Newark, CA. You will have a ...

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Senior Controls Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

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 ...

New

Sr. Controls Engineer

Crockett, CA · On-site

$101K - $188K/yr

OVERVIEW The Sr. Packaging Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining instrumentation and control systems in support of plant production, quality, GMP and safety goals. This role designs and ...

Controls Engineers establish and maintain our controls standards, lead hardware programming and system commissioning, and oversee the full lifecycle of projects. They also contribute to critical ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$109K - $145K/yr

Controls Engineers establish and maintain our controls standards, lead hardware programming and system commissioning, and oversee the full lifecycle of projects. They also contribute to critical ...

As a Controls Engineer you'll own the entire estimation & controls stack: formulating the math, writing highly optimized code, tuning in the lab, and deploying across a growing fleet of robots ...

New

Senior Controls Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$109K - $145K/yr

Controls Engineers establish and maintain our controls standards, lead hardware programming and system commissioning, and oversee the full lifecycle of projects. They also contribute to critical ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 20, 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 is a Sr Controls Engineer?

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,222 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

E Tech Group

Sonoma, CA

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

At E Tech Group, joining our team means joining a group of passionate and forward-thinking experts. We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing value for our clients through IT automation and control solutions for more than 25 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals, Material Handling, Consumer Products and Food & Beverage industries. Our national scale allows us to help our clients develop and implement standardized solutions at any of their facilities regardless of physical location or the local resources available at that site.

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 projects. This includes defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, programming PLC and SCADA applications, configuring thin client server applications, configuring process-based historian databases, tuning control loops, providing control system startup and commissioning services, troubleshooting existing control systems and providing control system qualifications. This a fantastic opportunity to lead/work on projects from concept through commissioning phases.

You must be local to Sonoma, CA.

You Will:

  • Provide application/control systems design and development for systems of varying complexity
  • Develop and evaluate alternative system solutions that meet stated requirements
  • Modifies program/system logic involving multiple systems and subsystems
  • Develop proficiency in several programming languages and control device networks for PLCs, PCs
  • Interact with customers to gain an understanding of the business environment. Defines scope, plans, and deliverables for assigned work
  • Work successfully in a team environment; focused strongly on customer service and continuous improvement
  • Serve as an ambassador who embodies our Core Values, prioritizing the success of E Tech Group, our clients, and the professional development of our associates

You Have:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or related Engineering fields.
  • 4+ years of experience, or equivalent combination of education
  • Consulting experience
  • Proficiency in troubleshooting control systems and an understanding of process controls
  • Instrumentation experience
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ignition and PLC experience with products such as: ControlLogix, CompactLogix, PlantPAx, Factory Talk Software Suite, Studio 5000, PLC5, SLC500, RSView, PanelView Plus, etc.
  • Experience in food and beverage and winery controls engineering
  • Knowledge of S88 Batch standards and experience implementing batch systems
  • Control system validation experience of pharmaceutical/biotech systems a plus
  • Other PLC platform experience (GE, Siemens, Modicon)
  • Other SCADA and HMI package experience (Proficy and Wonderware)
  • Experience implementing detailed control system electrical design packages
  • Working knowledge of control system networks (Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, etc.
  • A DNA comprised of collaboration and teamwork

Benefits & Perks:

  • 401k + match + prompt enrollment.  E Tech Group employees are 100% vested upon entry.
  • Prompt enrollment into Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits.
  • Generous paid time off that includes paid vacation, paid holidays, paid family leave and sick time off.
  • Learning and growth are key parts of the E Tech culture. We provide you with training and continuing education from day one, so you can advance your career. As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

Salary: $90,000- $130,000

E Tech Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other basis prohibited by law. E Tech Group will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and for religious beliefs. E Tech Group is an Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

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