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Automation Engineer Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

You will act as the main controls programmer on small to mid-sized automation projects, supporting schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines. Additionally, you will maintain organized ...

Sr. Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Bradley, ME · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

The position of Senior Manufacturing Automation Engineer is within our Infectious Disease Developed Markets Business Unit located in Scarborough, Maine. This role will be responsible for supporting ...

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineer information

See Maine salary details

$35.8K

$103.7K

$157.8K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Maine is $103,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,700.00 and $119,600.00 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 Maine? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Maine are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Maine? For Automation Engineer jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Maine look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Maine are:
What cities in Maine are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Maine with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Maine as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,720 per year, or $49.9 per hour.
Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Actalent

Westbrook, ME

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description

As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for creating, updating, and troubleshooting PLC ladder logic and HMI screens to meet customer needs and internal standards. You will work with advanced technologies such as cameras, robots, and sensors to ensure the seamless integration of all components in an automated machine. Your role will include testing machine sequences and verifying the correct wiring and operation of physical components before deployment. You will act as the main controls programmer on small to mid-sized automation projects, supporting schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines. Additionally, you will maintain organized project documentation and contribute to customer manuals.

Responsibilities
  • Create, update, and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic and HMI screens.
  • Work with cameras, robots, and sensors for smooth machine operation.
  • Test machine sequences and verify wiring of physical components.
  • Serve as the main controls programmer for automation projects.
  • Support project schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines.
  • Maintain organized project documentation including wire lists and calibration data.
  • Review and contribute to machine manuals for accurate customer documentation.
  • Support technicians during machine builds and provide troubleshooting assistance.
  • Travel to customer sites for machine installation, updates, and service calls.
Essential Skills
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in controls programming or industrial automation.
  • Strong PLC programming skills, including ladder logic, with knowledge of structured text or function block.
  • Experience with HMI/SCADA development.
  • Proficiency in working with robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, AC/DC circuits, and motion control systems.
  • Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
  • Comfortable troubleshooting complex control systems independently.
  • Experience with validation activities in regulated settings.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Knowledge of UI design principles for HMIs.
  • Familiarity with Rockwell PanelView or Optix HMIs.
  • Experience with industrial communication networks like Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or ProfiNet.
  • Hands-on experience with vision systems such as Cognex or Keyence.
  • Experience with robotic process automation and system architecture.
Work Environment

You will work in a dynamic environment where you will be involved in the full automation lifecycle, from design support and programming through testing, installation, and service. The role involves travel to customer sites for machine installations and service calls. You'll collaborate with a team of skilled technicians and engineers, with opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies and contribute to innovative solutions. The position offers an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as part of the benefits package.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Westbrook, ME.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

10 days PTO 5 days sick time Employee Stock Plan

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Westbrook,ME.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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