Division/Department: Industrial Automation Group – Engineering
Location: Temecula, CA
Position Overview
The Control Systems Engineer supports the Senior Controls Engineer (SCE) in system design and leads all field-based implementation activities on industrial automation SCADA projects. Primary responsibilities include site commissioning, hardware and software testing, system troubleshooting, and post-deployment support such as preventative maintenance. Beyond field execution, the CSE contributes to control system development as a hands-on technical resource.
The CSE sits between the hands-on field implementation work and the design-leading Senior Controls Engineer, doing real design and development work under the SCE, while owning field execution end-to-end. The role provides a structured pathway toward senior engineering positions.
Salary Range
- CSE Level 1: annual base salary of $80,000 – $95,000
- CSE Level 2: annual base salary of $92,000 – $108,000 per year
- CSE Level 3: annual base salary of $105,000 – $122,000 per year
Salary is commensurate with experience and does not include on-call and travel premiums, per diem, bonuses, and benefits, which can add roughly 15-30% to total compensation.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist the Senior Controls Engineer in the design and development of PLC, SCADA, and HMI solutions.
- Support system configuration including virtual machines, SCADA servers, and control networks.
- Conduct Functional Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) with internal teams and clients.
- Perform site commissioning — instrumentation checkout, loop testing, and startup support.
- Provide troubleshooting, maintenance, and technical support for deployed systems; perform updates, backups, and change management post-deployment.
- Configure and install virtual servers, clients, and network equipment per project specifications.
- Configure and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) using electrical ladder schematics.
- Interpret and apply electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control loop drawings in the field; document revisions and improvements.
- Ensure site safety compliance and adherence to startup protocols during field activities.
Certifications & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 3–6 years of experience in field deployment, PLC programming, and control system testing.
- Familiarity with SCADA platforms (Ignition, FactoryTalk View, AVEVA) and PLCs (Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider)
- Working knowledge of Modbus, Ethernet/IP, and Profibus communication protocols.
- Experience commissioning industrial systems including VFDs, instrumentation, and control panels
- Strong troubleshooting skills and ability to work independently in the field
- Ability to pass a DoD background check and drug screening
- Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record and no criminal record
- Willingness to travel to client sites and support FAT/SAT, commissioning, service reviews, and technical meetings
- Willingness to work on-call shifts as required
Preferred Certifications
The following certifications are preferred but not required:
- Water/Wastewater Treatment or Distribution Grade 1+
- OSHA 30 and/or EM385-1 safety certificate