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Automation Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Senior Automation Engineer

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$85 - $105/hr

Serve as the technical leader, establishing system architecture, engineering standards, preventive maintenance strategies, and long-term technology roadmaps. Lead automation integration projects with ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

cdiegc

Automation Engineer

Humble, TX

The Automation Engineer must be able to write software that takes up positional information, manipulate this information as required, and pass this on to other production machines and to the CDI ...

Sagis

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Information Technology Position Overview We are seeking a mid-level Python Automation Developer to build automation scripts that help streamline operations across our business--from laboratories to ...

Powell

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Key responsibilities include engineering, testing, maintaining and supporting automation solutions as well as intelligent products in MV/LV switchgear applications. Required Experience Is ...

FlexTek

Automation Engineer (3839)

Humble, TX · On-site

$110K/yr

FlexTek is partnering with an innovative manufacturing company to hire an experienced Automation Engineer who thrives in a hands-on manufacturing environment. This is a high-impact opportunity for ...

Optimus Steel LLC

Automation Engineer

Tomball, TX · On-site

... engineers and supervisors, and plant management in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of all improvement aspects within the electrical and process automation systems. The major role of this ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Automation Engineer

Tomball, TX · On-site

... engineers and supervisors, and plant management in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of all improvement aspects within the electrical and process automation systems. The major role of this ...

OPTIMUS STEEL LLC

Automation Engineer

Tomball, TX

... engineers and supervisors, and plant management in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of all improvement aspects within the electrical and process automation systems. The major role of this ...

SAGIS PLLC

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Innovation Position Overview We're seeking a mid-level Python Automation Developer to build automation scripts that help streamline operations across our business--from laboratories to HR, Accounting ...

HMH

Lead Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

HMH is seeking an experienced Lead Automation Engineer with a strong background in oilfield equipment, industrial controls, and field service support. This role focuses on designing, programming, and ...

Hitachi

Automation Engineer

Houston, TX

As an Automation Engineer , you'll be at the forefront of innovation, designing and deploying advanced substation automation solutions that keep critical infrastructure running seamlessly. This is ...

HMH

Lead Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

HMH is seeking an experienced Lead Automation Engineer with a strong background in oilfield equipment, industrial controls, and field service support. This role focuses on designing, programming, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Automation Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$35.3K

$102.3K

$155.7K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer 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 is an automation engineer?

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 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.

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 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 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.

More about Automation Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

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

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

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

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer 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 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,303 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Senior Automation Engineer

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.

Sugar Land, TX

$93K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Engineer to lead the design, implementation, optimization, and long-term operation of the whole fab automation systems, including AGV fleets, Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT), Smart Inventory, robotics, MES integration, SECS/GEM, and other automation technologies. As the technical leader for automation within the Optical Module Department, this role will define automation strategy, lead major automation projects, establish engineering standards, collaborate with vendors and cross-functional teams, and mentor engineering and maintenance personnel to improve manufacturing efficiency, equipment reliability, and factory productivity.

Job Duties

  • Lead the planning, commissioning, and continuous optimization of factory-wide automation systems, including AGV fleets, OHT, Smart Inventory, robotics, and other automated material handling solutions, to support high-volume optical module manufacturing.

  • Serve as the technical leader, establishing system architecture, engineering standards, preventive maintenance strategies, and long-term technology roadmaps.

  • Lead automation integration projects with manufacturing equipment, including SECS/GEM, E84, MES, WMS, and factory control systems, ensuring seamless communication between automation systems and production tools.

  • Manage automation vendors throughout the project lifecycle, including system specification, design review, FAT/SAT, installation, qualification, acceptance, warranty management, and performance improvement initiatives.

  • Lead root cause analysis for complex mechanical, electrical, controls, communication, and software issues affecting AGV, OHT, Smart Inventory, and other automation infrastructures.

  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Process, Facilities, IT, Quality, EHS, and Production teams to define automation requirements for new production lines and factory expansion projects.

  • Lead cleanroom automation layout planning, traffic simulation, routing optimization, charging station placement, and material flow analysis to maximize manufacturing efficiency.

  • Develop engineering specifications, SOPs, equipment standards, maintenance documentation, troubleshooting guides, and engineering change procedures.

  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to automation engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel through training, coaching, and technical guidance.

  • Support occasional international travel (approximately 10–15%) for supplier audits, equipment acceptance, factory integration, and technical collaboration.

  • Provide technical support during critical production events, new product introductions (NPI), major software deployments, and factory expansion activities.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.

  • 3+ years of experience in industrial automation, automated material handling systems (AMHS), semiconductor, electronics, or high-tech manufacturing environments.

  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale automation projects involving AGV/AMR, OHT, robotics, conveyors, or automated warehouse systems.

  • Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols, including SECS/GEM, E84, PLC-based control systems, Ethernet/IP OPC UA, or similar industrial networks.

  • Strong troubleshooting skills involving mechanical, electrical, software, networking, and automation control systems.

  • Experience managing equipment vendors, contractors, installation projects, FAT/SAT, and system qualification.

  • Proven project management experience with the ability to lead multiple concurrent automation initiatives.

Preferred:

  • 5+ years of experience in automation engineering, robotics, or high-tech manufacturing equipment validation.

  • Solid knowledge of optical transceiver or optical module assembly and testing processes.

  • Bilingual in Chinese (Mandarin) is a plus.

  • Lead cross-functional automation projects from concept through production.

  • Advanced familiarity with fleet management software or programming language environments. Hands-on experience with PLC programming or industrial automation controls.

Location

This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.

WHY AOI?

  • Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offer the employee with the right options to meet individual needs

  • Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals

  • Unused PTO payout at end of the year

  • Relocation package available within US

  • Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)

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