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Automation Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

AprilAire

Automation Engineer

Madison, WI

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 ...

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI

$101K - $132K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will ensure all work aligns with company policies and procedures, with safety as the highest priority. What your day-to-day will look like: * Serve assitetechnical ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 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.
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:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Madison, WI? 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,943 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

AprilAire

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

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 manufacturing equipment for our automated production lines. This person will own projects from vendor design review and factory acceptance through on-site installation, first article validation, and production ramp.
This position serves as a technical authority during equipment start-up, providing hands-on troubleshooting, engineering solutions, and optimization to ensure safety, quality, delivery, and long-term reliability. The Automation Engineer will work cross-functionally with vendors, controls engineers, maintenance, operations, and product engineering to deliver fully validated, production-ready automation.
This is an onsite position with travel required between sites.
Responsibilities
  • Own the technical execution of new automated equipment from design review through production.
  • Lead and/or support the design, development, and implementation of PLC-based automation systems
  • Modify PLC, HMI, and PC-based software to add features or resolve issues
  • Lead and/or support capital equipment projects involving custom automation, integrated production systems, and controls upgrades.
  • Coordinate and manage external integrators and equipment vendors
  • Prepare and maintain documentation required for equipment turnover to Production and Plant Maintenance.
  • Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and controls issues
  • Identify replacement components for obsolete or unavailable parts.
  • Maintain records of design changes, control modifications, and equipment improvements.
  • Work collaboratively with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Maintenance to ensure seamless equipment integration.
  • Represent Manufacturing Engineering on product and equipment design teams as assigned.

Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, mechanical, electrical, or controls engineering, or other closely related discipline.
    • At least 5 years of general manufacturing machine or process design experience required.
    • Experience with CAD software. SolidWorks preferred.
    • Technical understanding of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in the development of automated control systems.
    • Ability to read and understand technical documents including, but not limited to assembly drawings, part drawings, mechanical and electrical standards, and electrical schematics.
    • Experience with GD&T standards
    • Knowledge of industrial control software for PLCs. Mitsubishi and/or Allen Bradley preferred
    • Valid driver's license required.
    • Employee must be authorized to work in the US without support.

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