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Automation Engineer Manager Jobs in Appleton, WI

CMD CORPORATION

Automation Engineer

Appleton, WI · On-site

Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously. * Strong project planning and ... Automation Engineer Education and Experience: * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering ...

New

Belmark inc

Automation Engineer

De Pere, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversees and manages automation projects from conception to completion, ensuring seamless delivery ... programming. * Must have excellent problem-solving skills. * Must be proficient with Windows and ...

Bridgenext

Lead Automation Engineer

Green Bay, WI · On-site

We are seeing a Lead Automation Engineer with deep IT experience in test automation and QA ... Develop and manage test data for a wide range of scenarios * Perform both manual and automated ...

Valmet

Controls Engineer

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

  • Retirement

Join Our Team as an Electrical / Automation Engineer, Tissue Converting: Drive growth opportunities ... Project management skills * SAP experience, knowledge * Industry experience is preferred. We Offer ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Manager JobsAutomation Engineer Manager Jobs in Appleton, WI

Automation Engineer Manager information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$36.1K

$104.5K

$159K

How much do automation engineer manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer manager in Appleton, WI is $104,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges automation engineer managers face when leading automation projects?

Automation Engineer Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning project goals with business objectives, managing cross-functional teams with varying technical backgrounds, and ensuring clear communication between stakeholders. Balancing the need for innovative automation solutions with budget constraints and tight deadlines is also a frequent hurdle. Successful managers proactively address these challenges by fostering collaboration, setting clear expectations, and continuously monitoring project progress to adapt as needed.

What do automation engineer managers get paid?

Automation engineer managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $100,000 to $150,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee automation projects, manage teams, and require knowledge of programming, control systems, and project management tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation engineer manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer Manager, you need a solid background in automation engineering principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, industrial control software, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is highly valuable. Outstanding communication, problem-solving, and team-building abilities help drive project success and foster effective collaboration across departments. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering efficient automation solutions, ensuring project quality, and leading high-performing engineering teams.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer Manager vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation Engineer ManagerAutomation Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees automation projects, manages teams, and aligns automation strategies with business goals.Designs, develops, and implements automation solutions; focuses on technical tasks.
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, automation tools, programming, and system integration.Technical skills in automation tools, scripting, and software development.
CertificationsOften includes certifications like PMP, automation-specific certifications, or management credentials.Certifications in automation tools, programming, or industry standards.
Work EnvironmentTypically in managerial settings, coordinating teams and projects.Hands-on technical work in labs, manufacturing, or software environments.

The Automation Engineer Manager focuses on leading automation teams and strategic planning, while the Automation Engineer concentrates on technical development and implementation. Both roles require technical skills, but the manager also needs leadership and project management expertise.

What does an automation engineer manager do?

An Automation Engineer Manager oversees teams responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems within an organization. They coordinate projects, manage resources, and ensure that automation initiatives align with business goals. Their role involves both technical leadership—such as guiding the selection of automation tools and methodologies—and managerial duties, including training, performance evaluations, and cross-department collaboration. Ultimately, they work to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve process reliability through effective automation strategies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Automation Engineer Manager jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Automation Engineer Manager job openings:

Automation Engineer Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Manager job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,526 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Automation Engineer

CMD CORPORATION

Appleton, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Automation Engineer

Position Summary: The Automation Engineer is responsible for designing and developing custom automated machinery, robotic systems, and manufacturing equipment to meet customer and business requirements. This role combines mechanical engineering and machine design expertise with a strong understanding of automation technologies, robotics, motion control, and machine integration. The Automation Engineer collaborates with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams throughout the project lifecycle, from concept development through installation and startup.

Automation Engineer Essential Functions:

  • Design and develop custom automated machinery, machine assemblies, tooling, fixtures, and robotic work cells.
  • Create machine layouts, 3D CAD models, detail drawings, and bills of materials using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
  • Develop innovative automation solutions for manufacturing, assembly, material handling, case packing, cartoning, inspection, and palletizing applications.
  • Evaluate and select mechanical, pneumatic, robotic, and automation components based on performance, cost, and reliability requirements.
  • Collaborate with Controls Engineers to define system architecture, machine operation, safety requirements, and equipment functionality.
  • Support robotic integrations, including robot selection, reach studies, payload analysis, and end-of-arm tooling design.
  • Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project planning activities to define requirements and present technical solutions.
  • Prepare concepts, specifications, technical documentation, engineering estimates, and project support materials.
  • Assist manufacturing and assembly teams with troubleshooting, design improvements, and technical problem resolution.
  • Support machine testing, validation, factory acceptance testing (FAT), installation, and commissioning activities.
  • Review mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and controls documentation to ensure proper system integration.
  • Maintain engineering documentation, drawings, change records, and design standards.
  • Ensure designs comply with applicable safety, quality, and industry standards.
  • Research emerging technologies and recommend improvements to increase machine performance, reliability, and efficiency.
  • Travel to customer locations as needed to support project development, installation, startup, and technical support activities.

Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Automation Engineer Competencies:

  • Mechanical design and machine development expertise.
  • Working knowledge of industrial automation, controls, and robotics systems.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
  • Strong project planning and organizational skills.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Customer-focused mindset with the ability to present technical concepts clearly.
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, manufacturing, and customer teams.
  • Initiative, accountability, and continuous improvement mindset.

Automation Engineer Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
  • 5+ years of experience in machine design, automation engineering, robotics integration, or custom equipment development.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
  • Experience designing automated machinery, tooling, fixtures, and mechanical systems.
  • Working knowledge of industrial automation, robotics, motion control, PLCs, HMIs, and pneumatic systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic drawings.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate effectively with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally to support customer meetings, installations, and commissioning activities.

Additional Details and Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with robotics integration, material handling, assembly, product handling, casepacking, palletizing, etc. highly desired.
  • Experience with FANUC or other industrial robotic systems.
  • Familiarity with Rockwell and/or Beckhoff automation platforms and hardware.
  • Understanding of automation systems and components is preferred; PLC, HMI, and robot programming experience a plus, but not required.
  • Experience with packaging, material handling, assembly, or custom automation equipment.
  • Knowledge of machine safety standards and risk assessment practices.

Work Environment: CMD is located in Appleton, WI. Our three facilities operate by secure entry, are well lit, air temperature controlled for comfort, and clean with low noise. Safety is our top priority. Our culture is centered around mutual respect, clarity of communication, and employee wellbeing.

Physical Demands:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to stand, sit, talk, hear, reach, and use hands and fingers.
  • Physical movement is required to inspect, touch, bend, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch or twist in the capital equipment manufacturing process.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements and ability to adjust focus.
  • Light to moderate lifting may be required, up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to navigate manufacturing floor environment, which may include walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods.
  • Capacity to wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, ear protection, and hard hat as needed.
  • Ability to tolerate exposure to moderate levels of noise, vibration, odor, and varying temperatures in a manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to follow health and safety guidelines and protocols including emergency procedures.
  • Regular, predictable attendance is required.

Status: Full-time, nonexempt

Travel: None

Work Authorization/Security Clearance/Confidentiality: Must be authorized to work in the United States and adhere to CMD’s confidentiality agreement(s).

EEO Statement: CMD Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, parental status, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.