1

Automation Engineering Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Support assessment and capabilities development of engineering technicians in coordination with ... Ready to bring your automation skills to a team that makes a real difference? We'd love to hear ...

Be Seen First

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Automation Engineer to lead, develop, and implement automation and electrical control solutions across our manufacturing operations. In this hands-on ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineering Technician information

See salary details

$18

$32

$45

How much do automation engineering technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation engineering technician in the United States is $32.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation engineering technician?

An automation engineering technician is a skilled professional who installs, maintains, and troubleshoots automated systems and equipment used in manufacturing and industrial processes. They often work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and robotics, requiring knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems. Certification and technical training are typically necessary for this role.

Are automation technicians in demand?

Automation engineering technicians are in high demand due to the increasing adoption of automation and robotics across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and technology. They are valued for their skills in programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automated systems, often requiring knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and control systems. Job growth is expected to continue as companies seek to improve efficiency and reduce costs through automation solutions.

What is the difference between Automation Engineering Technician vs Electrical Engineering Technician?

AspectAutomation Engineering TechnicianElectrical Engineering Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree or technical diploma in automation, electronics, or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in electrical technology or electronics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation labs, industrial settingsElectrical labs, construction sites, industrial facilities
Employer & IndustryManufacturers, automation service providers, industrial plantsElectrical contractors, power companies, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonAutomation Engineering Technician vs Electrical Engineering Technician

The main difference between Automation Engineering Technicians and Electrical Engineering Technicians lies in their focus areas. Automation Technicians specialize in programming, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated systems and control equipment, often working directly with robotics and PLCs. Electrical Technicians focus more on electrical systems, wiring, and circuitry. Both roles require similar credentials and work in industrial environments, but their specific skills and daily tasks differ based on their specialization.

What are some typical challenges Automation Engineering Technicians face when troubleshooting automated systems?

Automation Engineering Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex equipment malfunctions, interpreting error codes, and identifying whether issues are electrical, mechanical, or software-related. They must quickly analyze root causes under time pressure to minimize downtime, often collaborating closely with engineers and production staff. Staying updated with evolving technology and maintaining thorough documentation are also key parts of their daily responsibilities. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial for resolving problems efficiently.

What is the highest salary for automation engineer?

The highest salaries for automation engineering technicians can exceed $90,000 annually, especially for those with advanced skills in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, and who work in industries like manufacturing or energy. Senior professionals with extensive experience and certifications may earn higher compensation, often supplemented by overtime or specialized project bonuses.

What are Automation Engineering Technicians?

Automation Engineering Technicians are skilled professionals who assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of automated machinery and control systems found in manufacturing and industrial settings. They work closely with engineers to troubleshoot, calibrate, and upgrade automation equipment such as robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and sensors. Their role is vital in ensuring that automated processes run efficiently and safely, minimizing downtime and improving productivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Engineering Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineering Technician, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, mechanical processes, and automation principles, usually supported by an associate degree or technical certification in automation or engineering technology. Familiarity with PLC programming, HMI interfaces, robotics systems, and diagnostic tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation and rapid troubleshooting of automated systems, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

How much do automation technicians make a year?

Automation engineering technicians typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled technicians proficient in PLC programming, robotics, and control systems tend to have higher salaries, especially in industrial or manufacturing environments.
More about Automation Engineering Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Automation Engineering Technician jobs? Cities with the most Automation Engineering Technician job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Automation Engineering Technician jobs? The top employers for Automation Engineering Technician jobs are:
What states have the most Automation Engineering Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Automation Engineering Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineering Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineering Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineering Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,829 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Automation Engineering Technician

Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation

Menomonee Falls, WI • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

INNOVATE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES! Milwaukee Tool's Front End Manufacturing Technology Team supports hands-on development, testing, troubleshooting, and deployment of next-generation manufacturing technologies for the Hand Tools Business Unit. The Automation Technician role partners with engineering, operations, quality, IT, suppliers, and global sites to turn new ideas into practical shop-floor solutions across automation, robotics, machine vision, connected equipment, data systems, and emerging AI/ML manufacturing applications.

Manufacturing Process, Automation & Technology Support:

  • Support setup, debug, troubleshooting, repair, and improvement of automation, robotics, vision systems, sensors, connected equipment, and automated work cells.

  • Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, production, quality, IT, suppliers, and global sites to support line setup, changeovers, pilots, and project execution.

  • Own assigned automated equipment and help deliver strong safety, quality, throughput, cost, flexibility, and speed-to-market results.

  • Lead, mentor, and coordinate automation, engineering, and contractor resources as needed.

  • Interpret PLC ladder logic, troubleshoot controls, integrate robots, and support communications, VFDs, motor protection relays, and industrial networks.

  • Collect and review machine data from PLCs, HMIs, sensors, robots, vision systems, and connected equipment to support troubleshooting, traceability, and data-driven decisions.

  • Support practical AI/ML and advanced analytics use cases by gathering clean process data, documenting equipment behavior, validating outputs, and translating recommendations into shop-floor actions.

  • Assist with edge devices, barcode/traceability systems, data collection hardware, and equipment connectivity for smart factory applications.

  • Build, modify, and test proof-of-concept fixtures, tooling, sensors, robot end-of-arm tooling, and prototype automation solutions.

  • Identify mechanical issues, maintain housekeeping and safety, participate in continuous improvement, and support multiple plants or projects as assigned.

  • Controls, Data & Connected Manufacturing Support:

  • Proficient with Rockwell controls platforms, including CompactLogix PLCs and FactoryTalk HMI development.

  • Able to read and interpret electrical, mechanical, and technical documents; wire control panels to prints, codes, and regulations.

  • Strong technical, mathematical, spatial, organizational, reading, and written communication skills.

  • Working knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, machine vision, sensors, motion control, pneumatics, electrical controls, equipment safety systems, and power tools.

  • Familiarity with connected manufacturing concepts such as machine data collection, traceability, dashboards, industrial networking, edge devices, OPC-UA, MQTT, SQL, APIs, or similar technologies is a plus.

  • Interest in AI, machine learning, computer vision, predictive quality, anomaly detection, and advanced analytics for manufacturing applications.

  • Demonstrates innovation, adaptability, hands-on curiosity, and the ability to test concepts, document results, and pivot quickly when needed.

Education and Experience Requirements:

  • Associate's degree or 5+ years of experience in a related industrial field.

  • Experience supporting automation, controls, robotics, vision systems, connected equipment, manufacturing data collection, or hands-on advanced manufacturing development.

Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.
Apply Now