Automation & Controls Engineer - Entry Level

PACIV; Aliso Viejo (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

90% employer-paid medical premiums

401(k) with company match

HSA contributions

Paid time off

Learning & development

Job summary

PACIV is seeking an Automation & Controls Engineer I in Aliso Viejo, CA. This entry-level role offers hands-on experience designing, programming, testing, and commissioning automated systems for life sciences and manufacturing clients.

Ideal candidates have a bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Biomedical engineering and 0–2 years in PLC/HMI/SCADA with familiarity in AutoCAD and related tools. Mentorship and growth opportunities abound at PACIV.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Biomedical, or related technical discipline.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with design, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation & control systems.
• Supporting PLC and HMI development for manufacturing and process automation applications.
• Working with sensors, actuators, motors, drives, and other industrial control components.
• Participating in equipment startup, troubleshooting, debugging, and validation activities.
• Create wiring diagrams and technical documentation.
• Collaborating with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and project teams to deliver solutions.
• Assisting with customer requirements gathering, system testing, and project tracking.
• Supporting onsite equipment installation and commissioning activities when needed.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

SCADA platforms

Electrical schematics reading

Analytical troubleshooting

Team collaboration

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Mechatronics/Biomedical or related field

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

AutoCAD

SolidWorks Electrical

Job description

Are you passionate about industrial automation, manufacturing technology, and solving real-world engineering challenges?

PACIV is an acronym for: Process Automation, Controls, Instrumentation & Validation.

We are a 30 year old stable company providing automation, control system, and validation solutions to highly regulated industries around the world. Our reputation is built on technical excellence, strong client partnerships, and a commitment to delivering high-quality solutions that drive operational success.

We are looking for an Automation & Controls Engineer I to join our team in Aliso Viejo, CA. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands‑on experience designing, programming, testing, and commissioning automated systems used by some of the world's leading life sciences, pharmaceutical, medical device, food & beverage, and manufacturing organizations.

You will work alongside experienced engineers, receive mentorship, and contribute to projects that bring innovative automation solutions from concept to production. If you enjoy problem-solving, learning new technologies, and seeing your work come to life in a real manufacturing environment, we would love to hear from you.

What You Will Do

• Assisting with the design, programming, testing, and commissioning of automation & control systems.
• Supporting PLC and HMI development for manufacturing and process automation applications.
• Working with sensors, actuators, motors, drives, and other industrial control components.
• Participating in equipment startup, troubleshooting, debugging, and validation activities.
• Create wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Collaborating with mechanical, electrical, manufacturing, and project teams to deliver successful automation solutions.
• Assisting with customer requirements gathering, system testing, and project tracking
• Supporting onsite equipment installation and commissioning activities when needed.
• Learning and developing expertise in industrial automation technologies from experienced engineering professionals.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Biomedical, or related technical discipline
• 0-2 years of experience with PLC, HMI, or SCADA platforms through coursework, internships, or professional experience.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical, or similar software.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP and Modbus
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills and a collaborative team‑oriented mindset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to travel up to 15% primarily within Southern California as well as other locations as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with machine vision, robotics, motion control systems, servos, steppers, or VFDs.
• Knowledge of programming or software integration concepts; C, C#, VB.NET, APIs and database integration
• Exposure to MES, manufacturing software systems, or industrial data collection platforms.

Why Join PACIV?

At PACIV, you will work on projects that matter.

Our engineers support manufacturing and process automation systems used to produce products that improve lives around the world. Rather than being limited to maintenance work, you will gain exposure to a wide variety of automation projects and technologies while building a strong technical foundation.

What You Can Expect

• Hands‑on engineering experience from day one.
• Mentorship from experienced automation and controls professionals.
• Exposure to diverse technologies; PLCs, HMIs, machine vision, robotics, and manufacturing systems.
• Opportunities for technical growth and career advancement.
• A collaborative and supportive team culture.
• A stable pipeline of exciting projects across multiple industries.

PACIV offers a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and long‑term career growth

• Competitive salary based on experience
• 90% employer-paid medical premiums
• 401(k) with 4% company match and immediate vesting
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions
• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development

Launch your engineering career with a company you can learn, grow, and make an impact from day one.

Employment Type & Hiring Notice

• No Corp-to-Corp (C2C) or 1099 arrangements
• This position does not provide employment visa sponsorship, now or in the future. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

PACIV is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace.