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Automation Engineer I Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

NABORS

Automation Engineer I

Houston, TX · On-site

The Automation Engineer will be part of a team developing automation solutions for the drilling industry, develop electrical and controls software-based design requirement, provide level 3 technical ...

Talos Energy

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Automation Engineer - Offshore Operations Talos Energy is a leading energy company focused on ... Identify hidden Automation/I&E scope early in Facilities, Subsea, Operations, and maintenance ...

Talos Energy

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Automation Engineer - Offshore Operations Talos Energy is a leading energy company focused on ... Identify hidden Automation/I&E scope early in Facilities, Subsea, Operations, and maintenance ...

Talos Energy LLC

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Automation Engineer - Offshore Operations Talos Energy is a leading energy company focused on ... Identify hidden Automation/I&E scope early in Facilities, Subsea, Operations, and maintenance ...

Cdi Products Llc

Automation Engineer

Humble, TX · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

JOB SUMMARY:The Automation Engineer designs, programs, integrates, and supports industrial ... Proficiency in Omron PLC programming and hardware design, SCADA systems (i.e. Indusoft), control ...

cdiegc

Automation Engineer

Humble, TX

The Automation Engineer must be able to write software that takes up positional information ... Proficiency in Omron PLC programming and hardware design, SCADA systems (i.e. Indusoft), control ...

CSI Consulting

Ranorex Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$44 - $58/hr

Please share me your resume, I'll give you a call to discuss in detail Arun(at)CsiCan(dot)com Job Details Test Automation Engineer with Ranorex experience 6-12 Months Contract Houston, TX Candidate ...

CSI Consulting

Ranorex Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$44 - $58/hr

Please share me your resume, I'll give you a call to discuss in detail Arun(at)CsiCan(dot)com Job Details Test Automation Engineer with Ranorex experience 6-12 Months Contract Houston, TX • ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer I JobsAutomation Engineer I Jobs in Houston, TX

Automation Engineer I information

See Houston, TX salary details

$35.3K

$102.3K

$155.7K

How much do automation engineer i jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer i in Houston, TX is $102,303.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,600.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the roles and responsibilities of an Automation Engineer I?

An Automation Engineer I is an entry-level professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated systems used in manufacturing or other industries. Their duties typically include programming automation equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, implementing process improvements, and collaborating with other engineering teams to optimize efficiency and safety. They also assist with system documentation, testing, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. As a junior position, an Automation Engineer I often works under the guidance of more experienced engineers while gaining hands-on experience with automation technologies.

How does an Automation Engineer I typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As an Automation Engineer I, you'll regularly work alongside software developers, quality assurance specialists, and operations staff to design, implement, and test automated systems. Collaboration often involves participating in project meetings to understand requirements, sharing progress updates, and troubleshooting automation issues as a team. Effective communication and a willingness to learn from more experienced colleagues are key, as you'll often need to translate technical details for non-technical team members and adapt to evolving project needs.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer I, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, programming fundamentals, and knowledge of automation systems, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial robotics, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities make you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for designing efficient automation solutions, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring smooth integration within manufacturing or industrial environments.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer I vs Automation Engineer II?

AspectAutomation Engineer IAutomation Engineer II
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field; certifications like ISTQB or Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonSame as Automation Engineer I, often with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level position, often in manufacturing, software, or industrial settingsMid-level role with increased responsibilities, more complex projects
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, software development, and industrial automation companiesTypically found in the same industries, with more autonomy and project scope

Automation Engineer I and Automation Engineer II roles share similar educational backgrounds and certifications. The main difference lies in experience and responsibility level, with Automation Engineer II handling more complex tasks and projects. Both roles are common in manufacturing, software, and industrial sectors, with the II position requiring more expertise and independence.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer I jobs in Houston, TX?

For Automation Engineer I jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer I jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer I jobs in Houston, TX are:

Automation Engineer I jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer I job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,303 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Automation Engineer I

NABORS

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop automation solutions and control software for drilling applications based on given requirements and specifications.

  • Generate design documentation, including PLC code, HMI applications, Bill of Materials, network architectures, and operation manuals.

  • Troubleshoot and fix issues reported in the field by working remotely or on-site with rig personnel.

Job description

The Automation Engineer will be part of a team developing automation solutions for the drilling industry, develop electrical and controls software-based design requirement, provide level 3 technical support to external and internal customers, ensure all relevant safety objectives and legal requirements are observed for all work completed. This position also interprets client requirements, identify and address design parameters and engineering problems and ensure solutions are implemented accurately and within budget.

Nabors is a leading provider of advanced technology for the energy industry. With operations in about 20 countries, Nabors has established a global network of people, technology and equipment to deploy solutions that deliver safe, efficient and responsible hydrocarbon production. By leveraging its core competencies, particularly in drilling, engineering, automation, data science and manufacturing, Nabors aims to innovate the future of energy and enable the transition to a lower carbon world.
Equal Opportunity Employer

Nabors is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibiting discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, religion, age, color, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.  This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.  To learn more about our Fair Employment practices, please refer to the Nabors Code of Conduct.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Controls Engineering or related discipline from a recognized University
  • 1-2 years of experience in an engineering environment, developing controls and automation software in Rockwell or Siemens systems 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Previous experience with controlling heavy rotating equipment using induction motors 

BEHAVIORAL COMPENTENCIES 

  • Strong Field Troubleshooting skills 
  • Effective communication skills both verbal & written, both 1-1 and group situations 
  • Time management 

TECHNICAL COMPENTENCIES 

  • Working knowledge of programming in C, C++, C#, PLC Ladder logic.
  • HMI: Factory Talk. Understanding for Rockwell software suite.
  • Ability to read Electrical schematics.
  • Understanding of various communication protocols Profibus, Modbus, OPC, ethernetIP, etc
  • Strong hands-on hardware troubleshooting and software debugging skills 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / WORKING CONDITIONS 

  • While this position is primarily based in a professional office environment, travel to yards and rigs is essential and required.    
  • 25% travel is expected
  • The position supports drilling rigs that work 24/7 and will routinely require phone availability outside regular work hours 

Work Authorization Requirement: Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Nabors does not provide work visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

  • Controls and Automation engineer with the role of developing software for drilling applications based on given requirements and specification. 
  • Control software development will also include developing machine control algorithms for PLC based systems. 
  • HMI design and implementation, instrumentation and sensor interface, data logging, and communication interfaces with other industrial processors like PLCs. 
  • Duties will include generation of Design documentation, PLC Code, HMI applications, Bill of Materials, Network Architectures, One Line Drawing, Operations manuals. 
  • Responsible of sustaining current rig applications and debugging / fixing issues that are reported in the field. This could be by answering calls and working with technicians, remotely connecting to rig system and troubleshoot, or by traveling to the rig site and working with rig personnel to fix the issue. 

  • Maintain product safety in all designs Perform basic troubleshooting of communication networks and wiring issues with PLCs and other NW components

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