ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Quora

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Geneseo, NY · 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 ...

Quora

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Rochester, NY · 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 ...

Wellington Steele & Associates

QA Automation

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $140K/yr

Overview QA Automation Engineer Salary range (depending on experience): $70k-$140k Job Responsibilities: * Responsible for developing and executing comprehensive tests strategies primarily for ...

Wellington Steele & Associates

QA Automation

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $140K/yr

QA Automation Engineer Salary range (depending on experience): $70k-$140k Job Responsibilities: * Responsible for developing and executing comprehensive tests strategies primarily for database ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Rochester, NY · 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

Geneseo, NY · 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Automation Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$36.5K

$105.7K

$160.8K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Rochester, NY is $105,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,300.00 and $121,900.00 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY? For Automation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,698 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an Optical Systems Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems for optical alignment, calibration, and test of imaging and optical assemblies. This role bridges optics, motion control, machine vision, and software, enabling scalable, repeatable, and high-yield manufacturing of optical systems and camera modules.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Optical Automation & Alignment

• Design and implement automated optical alignment systems (active and passive)

• Develop focus, centering, tilt, and spacing alignment algorithms

• Integrate cameras, light sources, collimators, targets, and metrology tools

• Optimize alignment speed, accuracy, and yield for production use

Test & Calibration Systems

• Develop automated optical test stations (MTF, SFR, distortion, FOV, CRA, focus)

• Implement calibration routines for imaging systems and optical assemblies

• Automate pass/fail criteria, data capture, and traceability

• Support thermal, vibration, and environmental test automation as needed

Software & Controls

• Develop automation software (Python, C/C++, LabVIEW, or similar)

• Interface with motion controllers, PLCs, frame grabbers, and DAQ hardware

• Implement closed-loop optimization using image-based feedback

• Develop GUIs and operator workflows for manufacturing environments

Manufacturing Integration

• Transition automation from lab to pilot line to production

• Support yield improvement, cycle time reduction, and process stabilization

• Develop fixtures, tooling, and work instructions

• Support GR&R, Cp/Cpk, and process capability studies

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with optical design, camera systems, mechanical, and quality teams

• Support DFM/DFA decisions related to optical tolerances and assembly strategy

• Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and software issues in production

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field

• 5+ years experience in optical systems automation or optical manufacturing

• Strong knowledge of optical fabrication, coatings, assembly, and testing methods.

• Familiarity with optical design software (Zemax, Code V) or metrology systems (interferometry, profilometry, MTF testing).

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required (ITAR compliance).

• Strong understanding of Optical alignment principles and tolerancing, Imaging performance metrics (MTF/SFR, distortion, focus), Motion control systems (stages, encoders, actuators).