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Automation Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We're hiring a Technical Automation Developer to help us build, run, and steadily improve the ... Associate Date Published: 18 Feb 2026

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Automation Associate information

Which 3 jobs will survive AI?

Automation Associates and similar roles in fields like healthcare, software development, and skilled trades are likely to persist as they require complex problem-solving, creativity, and human oversight. While AI can automate routine tasks, jobs involving critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and specialized expertise are less susceptible to automation. Continuous learning and technical skills enhance job security in an evolving automation landscape.

What is the difference between Automation Associate vs Process Technician?

AspectAutomation AssociateProcess Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in engineering, automation, or related field; certifications in PLC or automation systemsHigh school diploma or technical certification; some roles may require an associate degree
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation labs, industrial settingsManufacturing floors, production lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation companies, industrial sectorsManufacturing, process industries, production facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding automation roles, career paths in automationUnderstanding process roles, technical troubleshooting

The Automation Associate and Process Technician roles often overlap in manufacturing environments, but Automation Associates focus more on automation systems, programming, and system integration, while Process Technicians handle day-to-day process operations and troubleshooting. Both roles require technical skills and industry experience, but Automation Associates typically have more specialized training in automation technology.

What are Automation Associates?

Automation Associates are professionals who support the implementation, maintenance, and improvement of automated systems within an organization. They typically work with software tools, robotics, or process automation solutions to streamline workflows, reduce manual labor, and increase efficiency. Their responsibilities can include testing automation systems, troubleshooting issues, documenting processes, and collaborating with other team members to optimize operations. Automation Associates often work in industries such as manufacturing, IT, finance, and logistics, where automation can drive significant productivity gains.

What is an automation associate?

An automation associate is a professional responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining automated processes and systems within a company. They often work with tools like robotic process automation (RPA) software and require skills in programming, troubleshooting, and process analysis to improve efficiency and reduce manual tasks.

What are some common challenges Automation Associates face when implementing new automation solutions?

Automation Associates often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation tools with legacy systems, ensuring minimal disruption to existing workflows, and addressing resistance to change from team members. Effective communication and collaboration with IT, operations, and end-users are essential to identify process requirements and troubleshoot issues quickly. Staying proactive about learning new technologies and best practices can also help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful automation initiatives.

Is automation replaced by AI?

Automation associates use software and tools to streamline repetitive tasks, and AI can enhance automation by enabling systems to learn and adapt. While AI can automate more complex processes, human oversight remains essential for managing and maintaining automation systems. The role involves understanding both automation tools and AI technologies to improve efficiency.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

For an Automation Associate, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon; such high salaries are typically associated with executive roles, specialized engineering positions, or senior management in technology companies. High-paying roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills in automation tools, and sometimes leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Associate, you need a solid foundation in process automation concepts, scripting or programming languages (such as Python or VBA), and a relevant degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with automation tools like UiPath, Blue Prism, or Automation Anywhere, as well as experience with workflow management and testing frameworks, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These competencies enable you to design efficient automated solutions, minimize errors, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Automation jobs in Tennessee are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Associate jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Associate jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Automation Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Automation Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Associate job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Automation Project Manager - ACE Projects Division, Waterworks

Automation Project Manager - ACE Projects Division, Waterworks

HP Products

Clarksville, TN • On-site, Remote

$82K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


H-P Products rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

270th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Posting:

Since 1953, Ferguson has been a source of quality supplies for a variety of industries. Together We Build Better infrastructure, better homes, and better businesses. We exist to make our customers' complex projects simple, successful, and sustainable. Ferguson is proud to provide best-in-class products, service, and capabilities across industries including Industrial, Commercial/Mechanical, Fire & Fabrication, Waterworks, and more. With approximately 36,000 associates across 1,700 locations, Ferguson is a community of proud associates who operate with the shared purpose of building something meaningful.

Ferguson's Automation Center of Excellence (ACE) is expanding its project support with a dedicated focus on waterworks automation projects. We are seeking an Automation Project Manager to help bridge the gap between waterworks project requirements and valve automation expertise. This role is designed for someone who thrives at the intersection of project management, valve automation, and technical specification review, ensuring our customers receive the highest level of execution, accuracy, and service.

Ideally this role would work in close proximity to one of Ferguson's valve automation centers, but does also have the ability to work in a fully remote capacity anywhere in the United States.

Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage waterworks-focused automation projects from initiation through completion, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and on budget.
  • Tackle EPC, contractor, municipal, and end-user projects, recognizing that each requires a different approach to be successful.
  • Review waterworks project specifications and help build compliant automation packages, including valves, electric motor operators, pneumatic actuators, mounting kits, controls, and related components.
  • Support projects involving motor-operated valves (MOVs), including packages with electric operators such as Limitorque, Rotork, EIM, AUMA, and similar products.
  • Support pneumatic valve automation packages when required, including actuator, accessory, and control package coordination.
  • Leverage resources from documentation and quotation specialists to support project requirements, including submittals, testing documentation, O&M manuals, and formatting in the way customers expect to receive.
  • Collaborate with ACE, Projects Quotation Team, Project Execution Team, Waterworks teams, and Management to continue building best practices for handling waterworks, EPC, contractor, and end-user projects as the division grows.
  • Partner with ACE teammates, project managers, and technical specialists to execute projects that combine engineered automation packages with complex documentation and submittal requirements.
  • Recommend products and solutions that align with client needs, including valves, actuators, electric motor operators, mounting kits, accessories, and engineered automation systems.
  • Establish and maintain strong customer relationships, serving as a key point of contact for major accounts and strategic project opportunities.
  • Coordinate with inside sales, outside sales, vendors, valve shops, fabrication teams, and waterworks stakeholders to ensure accurate quotes, timely builds, and seamless delivery.
  • Conduct project meetings, track milestones, and prepare status updates for customers and leadership.
  • Drive alignment with Ferguson's Intentional Product Strategy (IPS) to maximize gross margin, standardization, and efficiency.
  • Serve as a liaison between field teams, customers, and vendors to resolve technical or project challenges quickly and minimize delays.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and support ACE's mission of standardization, collaboration, and shared best practices across districts and business groups.
Qualifications
  • 3-5 years of project management, valve automation, engineered products, waterworks, or related industry experience preferred.
  • Valve automation experience is highly preferred, including experience with actuated valve packages, engineered automation packages, or complex valve assemblies.
  • Electric motor operator experience is highly preferred, including familiarity with Limitorque, Rotork, EIM, AUMA, or similar MOV products.
  • Waterworks project experience is highly preferred, including familiarity with waterworks specifications, valves, actuators, controls, and related package components.
  • Project experience is highly preferred, especially with EPC, contractor, municipal, end-user, or specification-driven project work.
  • Ability to review project specifications, identify exceptions or gaps, coordinate with vendors, and help develop compliant project solutions.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, submittals, and project timelines.
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent industry experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint, Project).
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across inside sales, outside sales, vendors, customers, and cross-functional project teams.
  • Ability to travel occasionally as required by projects and/or training.

At Ferguson, we care for each other. We value our well-being just as much as our hard work. We are committed to a holistic approach towards benefits plans and programs that support the mental, physical and financial well-being of our associates. Our competitive offering not only includes benefits like health, dental, vision, paid time off, life insurance and a 401(k) with a company match, but our associates also enjoy additional meaningful and inclusive enhancements that are adaptable to their diverse situations and needs, including mental health coverage, gender affirming and family building benefits, paid parental leave, associate discounts, community involvement opportunities and more!

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Pay Range:

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$4,916.70 - $12,966.80

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Estimated Ranges displayed are Monthly for Salaried roles OR Hourly for all other roles.

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This role is Bonus or Incentive Plan eligible.

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Ferguson complies with all wage regulations. The starting wage may be higher in certain locations based on local or state wage requirements.

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The Company is an equal opportunity employer as well as a government contractor that shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a), which prohibits discrimination against qualified protected Veterans and the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(A), which prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability.

Ferguson Enterprises, LLC. is an equal employment employerF/M/Disability/Vet/SexualOrientation/Gender Identity.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation Information


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