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Automation Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

The automation engineer is responsible for maintaining all aspects of the site automation network, troubleshooting the site control system and equipment PLCs, and assisting with the design and ...

As an experienced Automation Engineer , you will have the ability to share new ideas and collaborate on projects as a consultant without the extensive demands of travel. The Project Delivery Talent ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Florence, AL · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Automation Engineer - Manufacturing The Automation Engineer wil support a high volume raw materials manufacturing operation in Alabama. This role focuses on improving plant efficiency through PLC ...

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Senior Automation Engineer

Bessemer, AL · On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

Job Title Senior Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that "Better Never Settles." We're dedicated to creating a positive impact globally, and we're looking ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

As an Automation Engineer, you will be required to demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and client focus/customer service; be resourceful and flexible, effective at handling multiple tasks ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

As an Automation Engineer, you will be required to demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and client focus/customer service; be resourceful and flexible, effective at handling multiple tasks ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$33.5K

$97.1K

$147.7K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Alabama is $97,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $111,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

What are Automation Engineers?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What is the work of an automation engineer?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software testing, or other repetitive tasks. They use tools like PLCs, scripting languages, and control systems to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automation tools are essential for this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, control systems, and robotics, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, working in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or technology, and may include bonuses or stock options.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What are some common challenges Automation Engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What Does an Automation Engineer Do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within an automation engineer's role, but it is unlikely to fully replace the profession. Automation engineers design, develop, and maintain complex systems that require human oversight, problem-solving, and adaptation. Skills in programming, systems integration, and understanding of industrial processes remain essential in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama? For Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,098 per year, or $46.7 per hour.
Automation Engineer II

Automation Engineer II

Evonik

Birmingham, AL

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Evonik rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 91 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

What we offer

Explore a world of opportunities with us. Look ahead with us and help shape innovative solutions to make our world more sustainable and life healthier, more vibrant and more comfortable. At Evonik, you have the chance to explore, thrive, and grow alongside 33,000 colleagues. Among attractive career paths and high-quality development programs, we not only offer performance-based remuneration and occupational health benefits but also hybrid and flexible working environments with #SmartWork. Bring your fresh perspective, develop your strengths, break out your mold, and find a career that fits your dreams with us.

Click on the link below to learn what our employees have to say about Evonik:
https://careers.evonik.com/en/about/meet-the-team/

The automation engineer is responsible for maintaining all aspects of the site automation network, troubleshooting the site control system and equipment PLCs, and assisting with the design and qualification of new automation systems.

This automation engineer works as part of a larger site engineering team. This position receives technical guidance and assistance from more senior automation engineering positions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Troubleshoot and resolve automation, software, and industrial network issuesto minimize production downtime and improve system reliability.
  • Modify, optimize, and maintain automation control logicin collaboration with process engineers and manufacturing subject matter experts.
  • Design and execute automation improvement projects, including upgrades of legacy control systems and integration of production and utility systems into the site-wide control architecture.
  • Manage and coordinate electrical contractors and third-party automation vendorsto ensure successful and safe project execution.
  • Develop and maintain automation documentation, including network architecture drawings, technical records, and system documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, electrical safety standards, and site EHS requirementsfor both employees and contractors.
  • Support GMP, ISO, change control, and validation requirementsby partnering with Quality Assurance and Validation teams during automation-related changes.
  • Develop project budgets, cost estimates, scopes of work, and vendor bid packagesfor automation and electrical projects.
  • Assist senior engineers with capital project planning, including project scope development, scheduling, resource planning, and cost management.
  • Drive long-term automation reliability and modernization initiativesby improving system robustness, reducing downtime, and advancing plant-wide control system integration.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degreein Automation Engineering, Industrial Automation, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.
  • Minimum 3+ years of industrial automation experiencesupporting manufacturing processes, control systems, and automation equipment.
  • Strong experience with PLC, DCS, HMI, and SCADA systems, including Siemens PCS 7/S7 platforms, Allen-Bradley ControlLogix family, FactoryTalk View SE/ME, Wonderware, and GE iFIX.
  • Proficiency in automation programming and troubleshooting, including ladder logic, structured text, sequential function charts, function blocks, and IEC 61131 programming standards.
  • Experience integrating new equipment into existing control systemsand migrating legacy automation platforms to modern, compliant solutions.
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex software, control system, and industrial networking issuesusing advanced diagnostic and root-cause analysis techniques.
  • Strong understanding of industrial networking and cybersecurity, including TCP/IP, Modbus, Ethernet/LAN/WAN infrastructure, Cisco networking hardware, Windows Domains, and Active Directory.
  • Experience supporting automation IT infrastructure, including Microsoft Windows Server environments, SQL Server, OSI PI, virtualization technologies (VMware/Hyper-V), virtual machines, and command-line interfaces.
  • Demonstrated project management skills, with the ability to develop scopes of work, manage vendors, estimate costs, and execute automation/electrical projects up to approximately $100K.
  • Knowledge of automation documentation and system management tools, including Visio, asset management strategies, and maintaining technical records and network architecture documentation.

    The Evonik Group adopts an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) approach. Candidates are assessed based on their educational qualifications, experience, job competencies and potential and shall not be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, nationality, disability or sexual orientation or other classifications protected by local, state, or provincial regulations.

    Your Application

    To ensure that your application is proceeded as quickly as possible and to protect the environment, please apply online via ourcareersportal. Further information about Evonik as Employer can be found at www.evonik.com/en/careers.html.

    Please address your application to the Talent Acquisition Manager, statingyour earliest possible starting date and your salary expectations.

    Your Talent Acquisition Manager:

    Kelvin Seals [C]

    Company is

    Evonik Corporation

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