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Automation Engineer Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Automation Controls Engineer

Leesport, PA · On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

Join us! The Automation Controls Engineer will design, fabricate, program, install, modify, and repair all aspects of electrical control systems, equipment, and machinery. You Will Have the ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Leesport, PA · On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

Join us! The Automation Controls Engineer will design, fabricate, program, install, modify, and repair all aspects of electrical control systems, equipment, and machinery. You Will Have the ...

Controls Engineer

Trexlertown, PA · On-site +1

$79K - $102K/yr

Must have a background with process automation * Programming PLC's for process automation systems * Siemens S7 is a plus but Allen Bradley (with function block programming is required) * PCS7 a plus

Automation Specialist

Leola, PA · On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Partner with engineering, maintenance, production, and other teams to improve equipment reliability ... Associate degree in Automation or a related field and 3 years of automated manufacturing equipment ...

Partner with engineering, maintenance, production, and other teams to improve equipment reliability ... Associate degree in Automation or a related field and 3 years of automated manufacturing equipment ...

Partner with engineering, maintenance, production, and other teams to improve equipment reliability ... Associate degree in Automation or a related field and 3 years of automated manufacturing equipment ...

Partner with engineering, maintenance, production, and other teams to improve equipment reliability ... Associate degree in Automation or a related field and 3 years of automated manufacturing equipment ...

Showing results 21-40

Automation Engineer information

See Reading, PA salary details

$35.5K

$102.9K

$156.5K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Reading, PA is $102,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,100.00 and $118,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA?

For Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Reading, PA are:

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 33% In-person, and 67% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,879 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Director of Automation Engineering- Optical Electronic Manufacturing

Nokia

Allentown, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 101 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

 In this role, you will guide a dynamic team of engineering professionals focused on revolutionizing automation in fiberoptic transceiver manufacturing. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams including R&D, Manufacturing, and Quality, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. The environment is fast-paced yet collaborative, encouraging open communication and shared problem-solving. You will have access to cutting-edge technologies and receive support in your professional development, allowing you to influence the future of microelectronics manufacturing. Benefits include competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for career advancement, along with a commitment to work-life balance and employee well-being.
 

Must-Have:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Automation Engineering, or related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in automated microelectronics or opto-electronics manufacturing.
  • Proven track record of designing and deploying high-precision automated assembly and test systems.
  • Experience guide engineering teams and scaling automation capabilities in a production environment.
  • Deep knowledge of robotics, motion control, machine vision, PLCs, and clean manufacturing processes.

Nice-To-Have:

  • Master's degree or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience with fiber optic components, photonics packaging, or optical alignment automation.
  • Background in high-volume, high-mix manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with MES integration, Industry 4.0 technologies, and advanced analytics.
  • Develop and execute the long-term automation strategy for fiberoptic transceiver manufacturing, aligning with company goals.
  • Build and guide a high-performing multidisciplinary automation engineering team focused on robotics and automated systems.
  • Design and implement automated solutions for assembly, packaging, bonding, and testing of microelectronic components.
  • Transition manual processes to fully automated production lines, ensuring efficiency and quality targets are met.
  • Oversee the integration of automation systems with manufacturing execution systems and quality control processes.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance equipment performance and manufacturing yield.
  • Collaborate with R&D to ensure product designs support automation and manufacturability.
  • Communicate automation strategies and progress to executive guide and cross-functional teams.

What Nokia employees say

Hours and flexibility

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