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Automation Associate Jobs in Anoka, MN (NOW HIRING)

Associate's Degree in Automation, Electronics, Robotics, Computer Science, or similar Experience: * 5+ Years developing and/or troubleshooting PLC and HMI software. * 5+ Years working experience ...

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Automation Associate information

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How much do automation associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation associate in Anoka, MN is $29.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.25 and $32.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an automation associate?

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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation associate?

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 cities near Anoka, MN are hiring for Automation Associate jobs?

Cities near Anoka, MN with the most Automation Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Associate job openings in Anoka, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,479 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Specialist Technician - Automation (Remote)

Loram

Hamel, MN • On-site, Remote

$45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Loram rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Specialist Technician - Automation
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Fleet Operations
Reports to: Assistant Manager, Automation Systems
General Description / Purpose:
Provide field support to Lease Operations, R&D, and OEM Customers around the world. Serve to focus efforts toward coordination and fulfillment of successful field operations tests while maintaining customer needs and minimizing interference with daily operations.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Communication
  • Demonstrate individual discretion in decision-making when advising customers on warranty claim matters and defining criteria for the safe operation of equipment.
  • Contribute to building excellent company/customer working relationships.

Leadership
  • Lead up to 12 people to safely complete upgrade and overhaul projects involving programming, electrical, and fluid power tasks. Provide work direction to operators in conducting technical repairs.
  • Assist, train, and observe Field Technician performance for use in evaluations as related to job performance.
  • Schedule machine Technician visits using EAM work order system or by using a generated Technician list from machine Managers.

Operational Excellence
  • Apply advanced knowledge to utilize Rockwell Automation software to read PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) and HMI (Human Machine Interface) software as well as electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic schematics to troubleshoot equipment problems to ensure maximum productivity and safe operation of specialized railroad equipment.
  • Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair problems with machine control systems that include device-level networks such as Ethernet TCP/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP-IP, J1939, CAN Bus, RSNetworx for ControlNet, and RSNetworx for DeviceNet to assist in reducing equipment downtime.
  • Responsible for diagnosing problems, estimating repair costs, ordering parts, minimizing re-work, proper use and care of tools and equipment, on-the-job safety practices, and proper job documentation, including technical report writing.
  • Design, develop, and deliver both classroom and on-the-job training for internal and external customers that incorporate electronic media presentations and hands-on simulations.
  • Complete projects accurately to specifications within performance standard guidelines as set by Loram: repair time, quantity of repairs/labor efficiency, and other measures.
  • Analyze key performance indicators and interpret historical data systems' performance to identify, recommend, and implement design changes and modifications that reduce life-cycle costs, improve machine productivity, and/or enhance the safety of personnel or the environment.
  • Has the ability and desire to approach technical education as a life-long process to stay current in the field, including PLC Programming, Power and Controls Systems, Laser Measurement Technology, Industrial Computing, and Data Analysis, while maintaining related certifications and credentials and exhibiting a high level of job performance.

This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: Associate's Degree in Automation, Electronics, Robotics, Computer Science, or similar
Experience:
  • 5+ Years developing and/or troubleshooting PLC and HMI software.
  • 5+ Years working experience troubleshooting electrical, hydraulic, and/or pneumatic circuits using schematics and diagrams.

Licenses/Certifications: Maintain Railroad Certifications,
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Demonstrated experience in all of the following disciplines:
  • Hardware and software repair of PLC and Industrial PC systems.
  • Low voltage control systems including relay logic, discrete and analog inputs and outputs, discrete and analog end devices such as sensors, valves, and other electrical control devices.
  • Digital and analog video and audio recording systems.
  • Industrial computers and related networking components, including hardware setup and software installation, computer imaging, virtual machine creation, software licensing, database management, and computer repair.
  • GPS systems installation, calibration, and maintenance.
  • Data analysis with Rockwell Software and/or Microsoft Office and SQL
  • Strong computer and computer applications such as Microsoft SQL Server, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong working knowledge in reading and troubleshooting Rockwell Software PLC and HMI software.
  • Be familiar with communication networks such as Ethernet TCP/IP, Modbus, J1939, CAN Bus, RSNetworx for ControlNet and RSNetworx for DeviceNet.
  • Ability to maintain a flexible travel calendar.

*7+ years combination of education and relevant experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or Software Engineering.
Experience:
  • 1+ Years experience with languages such as C#, HTML and Java Script.
  • 1+ Years working with database software such as Microsoft SQL Server.

PREEMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
  • This position requires successful completion of a pre-employment physical examination and role-specific assessments. Components may include DOT Physical Exam, Regulated (DOT) DS/BAT, Human Performance Evaluation (HPE), and Audiogram.
  • Position requires successful completion of an eVerifile/eRailSafe background check as required by Loram's railroad customers. Ongoing eligibility is subject to compliance with eRailSafe standards.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. A Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check will be conducted upon hire and annually thereafter in accordance with Loram's Driving Policy.
  • Successfully pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test.
  • A Verification of post-secondary education.
  • Verification of current and prior relevant employment experience, to confirm the candidate meets the minimum required years of experience for the position.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of the role successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Office deskwork, requiring sitting, walking, using phone & computer
  • May lift up to 30 lbs. occasionally
  • 70% or more travel, including 10% international
  • Can tolerate variable and sometimes challenging conditions during visits or inspections of company equipment in a railroad environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
Loram is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful workplace. We make all employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business need, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws in the countries where we operate, including the Equality Act 2010 in the UK, relevant U.S. federal, state, and local laws, Brazil's anti-discrimination provisions under the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT) and Federal Constitution, India's Equal Remuneration Act and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, Australia's Fair Work Act 2009 and applicable state and territory legislation, and Canada's human rights protections under the Canadian Human Rights Act and applicable provincial or territorial laws.
Benefits:
Benefits for this role include a comprehensive package with company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance; Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options; wellness programs; basic life and AD&D insurance; voluntary life insurance; company paid short-term and long-term disability coverage; 401(k) retirement plan including an employer match of 150% up to the first 6% you contribute to the Plan; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); behavioral health support; and leaves of absence. Additional benefits include tuition reimbursement, payroll charity contributions, adoption assistance and optional plans such as legal, critical illness, and hospitalization.
Compensation:
Loram determines compensation based on factors such as skills, competencies, education, and/or experience. Certain positions may be eligible for an annual bonus and paid time off in addition to base compensation.
The pay range for this position is between $81,300-$121,800
This post is also available in: Portuguese (Brazil)
ABOUT
Loram Maintenance of Way, Inc. is a global leader in track maintenance technology, services, and solutions for the railway industry. For over 70 years, Loram has delivered industry-leading innovation through cutting-edge rail grinding, ballast maintenance, and inspection systems - ensuring safer, more reliable, and cost-effective rail operations for customers worldwide.
Headquartered in Hamel, Minnesota, Loram operates in multiple locations across North America and supports Class I, regional, and commuter railroads with a full suite of services. Loram is known for its strong engineering culture, commitment to safety, and dedication to improving the performance of rail infrastructure through advanced technology and field-proven expertise.
Join a company that moves the world - and builds the future of rail.

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