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Automation Engineer Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Biddeford, ME · On-site

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 ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Auburn, ME · On-site

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 ...

Vantage Point Recruiting

Controls Engineer

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting current production systems and design of future ... In this role you will lead automation and control system integration from design of new systems to ...

Fiber Materials

Controls Engineer

Biddeford, ME

$87K - $113K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting current production systems and design of future ... In this role you will lead automation and control system integration from design of new systems to ...

Lanco Integrated

Automation Project Lead

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

You'll work side-by-side with talented technicians and engineers to assemble, debug, and commission custom automation equipment, helping ensure every system delivers peak performance. What You'll Do

Lanco Integrated

Automation Project Lead

Westbrook, ME · On-site

$30 - $39/hr

You'll work side-by-side with talented technicians and engineers to assemble, debug, and commission custom automation equipment, helping ensure every system delivers peak performance. What You'll Do

Portland Webworks

Drupal DevOps Engineer

Portland, ME · Remote

$60K - $90K/yr

As a Drupal DevOps Engineer, you have a solid grasp of the Drupal hosting configurations, build processes and automation of deployments. You have a strong focus on business outcomes, are comfortable ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Portland, ME

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 18, 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.
More about Automation Engineer jobs
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:
Automation Engineer jobs near you
Software Automation Internships

Software Automation Internships

Danaher

Biddeford, ME • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Danaher rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

How It Works

This is not an active job listing. By submitting your interest, you’ll be among the first to know when internship opportunities open at Danaher. While the roles described here reflect the types of positions we typically recruit for, we want to be transparent that specific openings for the upcoming recruiting season have not yet been finalized. If your background aligns with future opportunities, we’ll reach out directly when formal applications become available.

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 Engineering Intern at Cytiva (a Danaher company), you would help improve our DeltaV automation library used in cutting-edge bioprocessing technologies.

This potential opportunity could offer hands-on experience as part of an Agile engineering team, contributing to process automation, testing strategies, and design optimization. Interns in similar past roles have worked on meaningful projects that support Cytiva’s mission of advancing and accelerating therapeutics.

What You Might Work On
  • Participating in Agile Scrum team activities and engineering sprints
  • Supporting the development and testing of DeltaV automation software
  • Troubleshooting system and software issues Collaborating with cross-functional teams on requirements, design optimization, and root cause analysis
  • Developing and executing test strategies for automation solutions
Who This Is For
  • Students graduating in 2026 or later, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or another hard science Preference for students who have completed at least 3 years of academic coursework by internship start
  • Experience with hands-on lab testing and technical documentation (e.g., lab report generation)
  • Strong analytical and collaboration skills, with a desire to work in a regulated, quality-driven environment
Company Description

At Danaher, we bring together science, technology, and operational excellence to accelerate the impact of innovation in diagnostics, life sciences, and biotechnology. Our global teams work every day to solve the world’s most complex challenges by developing tools that improve human health.

Cytiva, a Danaher company, is a global life sciences leader supporting customers in discovering and producing life-changing therapeutics. You’ll be joining a team committed to curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement—empowered by the proven tools of the Danaher Business System.

What Danaher employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Danaher

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a science and technology innovator committed to helping our customers solve complex challenges, and improving quality of life around the world. A global family of more than 20 operating companies, we drive meaningful innovation in some of today's most dynamic, growing industries.

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

1984

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