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Automation Engineer Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Automation Engineer information

See Merced, CA salary details

$39.1K

$113.1K

$172.1K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Merced, CA is $113,128.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $130,400.00 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 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.
More about Automation Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Merced, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Merced, CA are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Automation Engineer jobs near you
IT System Administrator II (Atwater)

IT System Administrator II (Atwater)

Golden Valley Health Centers

Atwater, CA • On-site

$39.54 - $42.37/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The IT System Administrator II is an experienced technical position within the IT Engineering team, responsible for the support, installation, configuration, operation and maintenance of hardware and software systems throughout Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC). This includes evaluation and implementation services of new products, technologies and solutions to address organization wide business requirements.
This position will work at our Atwater Administration Site, schedule is Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm.
Compensation: $39.54 - $42.37 an hour
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Take business or technical requests, assess requirements, design solutions, and develop implementation plans.
  • Lead execution of assigned projects from planning through delivery, coordinating with internal IT teams and external departments to provide organizational value.
  • Proactively identify risks, roadblocks, and required resources, communicating mitigation strategies.
  • Effectively communicate proposals, timelines, and impact to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Demonstrate autonomy and accountability to produce effective results.
  • Manage the handoff of projects to operations, including all necessary documentation, procedures, and training.
  • Collaborate openly with vendors and internal teams to support all IT systems and initiatives.
  • Assist in broader IT department planning and initiatives as required.
  • Provide end-user support and guidance as needed.
  • Demonstrate effective communication and problem-solving skills across all levels of the organization.
  • Administer, maintain, and optimize servers, storage (SAN/NAS), virtualization platforms, cloud, and other core IT systems to ensure security, performance, and availability.
  • Provide tier 4 support to identify, diagnose, and resolve complex system incidents and problems.
  • Design, configure, document, and monitor systems performance; proactively report on status, utilization, and potential issues.
  • Maintain and audit system security, configuration consistency, and compliance with GVHC policies, including backup, recovery, and disaster recovery readiness.
  • Create and maintain system documentation, logical and physical diagrams, and knowledge articles.
  • Maintain a full working knowledge of GVHC applications and their interdependencies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the success and continuous improvement of the IT department.

Min. Qualifications
  • Proven experience administering Windows server environments, virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V, or equivalent), and enterprise storage systems (SAN/NAS).
  • Advanced knowledge of Active Directory, Group Policy,, , DNS, DHCP,IIS and Certificate Services.
  • Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or equivalent), including administration, migration, and integration with on-premises systems.
  • Strong understanding of networking technologies including routers, switches, wireless, firewalls, and the various components of the LAN/WAN infrastructure.
  • Experience with scripting and automation using PowerShell, Python, or similar tools to improve operational efficiency.
  • Working knowledge of project management principles, including planning, scoping, task tracking, and leading cross-functional IT projects.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Must possess a valid Class C California Driver's License, acceptable driving history and proof of liability insurance.

Physical Demands
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15-30 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Travel between GVHC sites may be required using either a GVHC-owned or personal vehicle. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed.
Work Environment
The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet, but at times you may be required to work in server rooms with noise levels in keeping with that atmosphere, including server and fan noise, A/C cooling noise and cold temperatures, networking equipment noise and fans, etc.
Education/Experience Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field, and a minimum of four (4) years of relevant systems administration experience OR Associate's degree in IT or related field with six (6) years of relevant experience.
  • Relevant technical certifications are strongly preferred, such as:
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
  • Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
  • VMware Certified Professional (VCP) - Data Center Virtualization
  • ITIL Foundation (for project/service management knowledge)

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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