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Automation Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

... automation engineering and framework development. • Strong proficiency in C# and the Microsoft .NET ecosystem; daily development and debugging in Visual Studio. • Proven experience building ...

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Opelika, AL · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls & Automation Engineer champions the development & support of the site's production equipment controls and automation infrastructure. This individual keeps abreast of current ...

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Opelika, AL · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls & Automation Engineer champions the development & support of the site's production equipment controls and automation infrastructure. This individual keeps abreast of current ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Montgomery, AL · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Birmingham, AL · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Huntsville, AL · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Mobile, AL · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 automation software to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of control systems are essential for this role.

Is there a shortage of automation engineers?

Automation engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, technology, and automotive due to increasing automation and integration of control systems. The job market for automation engineers is generally strong, with many employers seeking candidates skilled in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, often requiring relevant certifications and experience. This demand is expected to continue as companies focus on efficiency and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior-level 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 in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in tech companies or executive roles.

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, such as data analysis and process optimization. However, automation engineers are essential for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex systems that require human oversight, problem-solving, and domain expertise. AI is expected to augment rather than fully replace automation engineers in most environments.
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 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,098 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Senior Manager, Automation Engineering

L3HHCM20

Huntsville, AL

$96K - $127K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Senior Manager, Automation Engineering

Job Code: 35344

Job Location: Huntsville, AL

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

 

Job Description:

The Advanced Operations Technology (AOT) organization is seeking an experienced Senior Manager with extensive knowledge of manufacturing automation and controls to oversee a section of the AOT portfolio.  This role will be responsible for the lifecycle of the automated system which includes capturing opportunities, drafting requirements, design, development, implementation and sustainment of the equipment.

The selected candidate will lead a team of automation engineers and will work closely with automation integrators and suppliers to build innovative automation solutions for our solid rocket motor manufacturing processes. These solutions will focus on improving manufacturing capabilities, effectiveness and employee safety. The role reports to the director of Advanced Operations Technology.

The AOT organization works with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities in the manufacturing process, and craft solutions which align with the organization's vision for manufacturing modernization. This requires motivated, self-starting individuals with a passion for technical creativity and the ability to work with others to achieve results.  Furthermore, Automation Engineers will lead the automation solutions through project management activities, developing requirements, working with key suppliers, testing the automation, and transitioning the solution to production.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead and oversee a team of automation engineers, providing direction, mentorship, and performance management.
  • Lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams including program managers, manufacturing engineers, process engineers, quality, maintenance, IT, OT, safety and Integrated product team leads to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions.
  • Collaborate closely with Advanced Operations Technology Chief Engineer on every automation initiative
  • Manage projects from concept to completion, including resource allocation, timeline management, and budget adherence.
  • Analyze production Process and Workstreams to identify opportunities for manufacturing modernization and recommend solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce costs
  • Drive the standardization of automated systems solutions across sites.
  • Develop and implement automation strategies and solutions to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
  • Ensure that all automation processes comply with safety, regulatory, and quality standards.
  • Continuously assess and implement improvements in automation technologies and methodologies.
  • Evaluate and select external vendors and partners for automation-related projects and products.
  • Up to 25% business travel required. 
  • Ability to obtain U.S. Secret security clearance. 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 12 years of prior relevant Engineering experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior related Engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related Engineering experience.
  • 2+ years prior direct people leadership/management experience. 

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of automation systems design/sustainment involving robotic cells, custom automation solutions, vision systems, motion control or testing solutions.
  • Experience developing statements or work and functional requirements specification documents.
  • Experience in integration of automation systems with business and manufacturing systems.
  • Experience managing automation solutions team.
  • Experience in project management.
  • Experience managing automation integrators.
  • Experience programming Fanuc robotics systems and simulations.
  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley PLCs.

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