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Automation Engineer Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Senior Automation Engineer

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$108K - $141K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Working at Abbott At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Scarborough, ME

$108K - $141K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Working at Abbott At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Scarborough, ME · On-site

$108K - $141K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Working at Abbott At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You'll also have ...

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Auburn, ME · On-site

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI internally across the company. This is a unique opportunity to shape how LLMs become embedded in our ...

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 Portland, ME salary details

$37.4K

$108.2K

$164.7K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Portland, ME is $108,246.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,400.00 and $124,800.00 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 Portland, ME? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Portland, ME are:
Quality Automation Engineer 2

Quality Automation Engineer 2

Garmin International, Inc.

Yarmouth, ME • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago


Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 143 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Quality Automation Engineer 2 in our Yarmouth, ME office. In this role, you will be responsible for performing automation quality assurance activities and developing software for well-defined moderately complex test automation using defined software development methodology.
Must live in Maine to be considered.
Essential Functions
  • Demonstrate the ability of applying design standards and procedures to create and execute well-defined moderately complex manual and automated test cases
  • Demonstrate the ability to write complex functions to improve an existing automated test framework
  • Provide reliable solutions to a variety of problems using sound problem solving techniques
  • Demonstrate the ability to complete well-defined moderately complex tasks and/or projects
  • Demonstrate the role of quality assurance in each phase of the Software Development Life Cycle and/or Product Development Life Cycle
  • Demonstrate full use of Garmin testing standards and procedures
  • Demonstrate proficient use and knowledge of engineering tools
  • Demonstrate a sense of urgency, commitment and focus on the right priorities in developing solutions in a timely fashion
  • Lead small projects / feature/ module projects and/or sub-projects as part of a greater project
  • Ability to perform as technical leader who guides technical direction of projects
  • Collaborate and add value in QA - technical testing reviews
  • Ability to estimate the level of effort for a task
  • Define, document, and implement new process improvements
  • Perform peer code reviews as needed
  • Demonstrate mastery of relevant software engineering tools
  • Train and mentor less experienced Quality Automation Engineers
  • Perform all essential functions as defined for the Quality Automation Engineer 1

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical field AND a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
  • Superior organizational and analytical skills
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and to exercise sound independent judgment
  • Relevant experience or training in product and/or software quality automation processes and methodologies

Desired Qualifications
  • Previous experience working in a team environment
  • Previous experience testing and developing/analyzing tests related to a Garmin core product market
  • Relevant experience or training in creating test plans, conducting usability test, and/or writing test scripts is preferred

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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