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Automation Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

NOVARES

Automation Engineer

Janesville, WI · On-site

Automation Engineer We are seeking an Automation Engineer to design, support, optimize, and improve automated manufacturing systems in a fast-paced production environment. This position is ...

NOVARES

Automation Engineer

Janesville, WI · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to design, support, optimize, and improve automated manufacturing systems in a fast-paced production environment. This position is responsible for developing and ...

Mastermold LLC

Automation Engineer

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

Controls Automation Engineer | Onsite in Johnson Creek, WI MasterMold is hiring a Controls Automation Engineer for our manufacturing facility in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin. This is a full-time, fully ...

Manpower Engineering

Automation Engineer

Waunakee, WI · On-site

As an Automation Engineer, you will be part of the Manufacturing Support Department supporting Production and Quality teams. The ideal candidate will have meticulous attention to detail, strong ...

Mastermold LLC

Automation Engineer

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

Controls Automation Engineer | Onsite in Johnson Creek, WI MasterMold is hiring a Controls Automation Engineer for our manufacturing facility in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin. This is a full-time, fully ...

Mastermold LLC

Automation Engineer

Johnson Creek, WI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Controls Automation Engineer | PLC and Robotics Due to advancement, MasterMold is hiring Controls Automation Engineers to program, troubleshoot, and improve the industrial automation systems that ...

AprilAire

Automation Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

Overview We are currently looking for a new Automation Engineer to join our Ops-Engineering team! This engineer will be responsible for the successful implementation of custom and off-the-shelf ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Automation Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$37.3K

$107.9K

$164.2K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Madison, WI is $107,943.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,200.00 and $124,400.00 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 Madison, WI?

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

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For Automation Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

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

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

Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 91% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,943 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Automation Engineer

NOVARES

Janesville, WI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Novares rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Automation Engineer
We are seeking an Automation Engineer to design, support, optimize, and improve automated manufacturing systems in a fast-paced production environment. This position is responsible for developing and maintaining PLC, robotics, vision, and motion control systems while leading automation projects that improve safety, quality, productivity, and equipment reliability. The Automation Engineer will collaborate closely with operations, maintenance, quality, and manufacturing teams to implement innovative automation solutions and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, program, and support automated manufacturing systems including PLCs, HMIs, robots, servo systems, and vision systems.
  • Lead automation projects from concept through implementation, startup, and validation.
  • Develop and modify PLC, robot, and HMI programs to improve equipment performance and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Troubleshoot complex automation and controls issues to minimize downtime and improve reliability.
  • Support new equipment installations, automation upgrades, and capital improvement projects.
  • Analyze production processes and identify opportunities for automation and process optimization.
  • Develop electrical control system architectures and review electrical schematics and machine designs.
  • Collaborate with maintenance, production, quality, and engineering teams to implement corrective and preventive actions.
  • Create and maintain engineering documentation including control narratives, electrical drawings, programming standards, and operating procedures.
  • Monitor equipment performance and utilize data analysis to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, machine guarding requirements, and applicable industry regulations.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentoring to maintenance and technician personnel.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field preferred.
  • Associate degree with significant automation engineering experience may be considered.5+ years of experience designing, programming, and supporting industrial automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
  • Strong PLC programming experience with Allen-Bradley RSLogix 500, Studio 5000, and FactoryTalk platforms.
  • Experience with industrial robotics including Fanuc, ABB, Wittmann, or similar systems.
  • Experience with HMI, SCADA, motion control, and vision inspection systems.Strong understanding of industrial networking including Ethernet/IP and related communication protocols.
  • Ability to read and develop electrical schematics, control system layouts, and technical documentation.
  • Project management and capital project experience preferred.
Preferred Experience
  • Plastic injection molding automation.
  • High-speed and high-volume manufacturing environments.
  • Safety PLCs and machine safety systems.
  • Servo motion control systems.
  • Vision-guided robotics.MES, IIoT, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
  • Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement methodologies.

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