ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Engineering Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JLL

Automation Engineering Apprentice

Shakopee, MN · On-site

You'll train alongside experienced Automation Engineers, Technicians, and OEM partners to develop your understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), Motor ...

JLL

Automation Engineering Apprentice

Bondurant, IA

You'll train alongside experienced Automation Engineers, Technicians, and OEM partners to develop your understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), Motor ...

JLL

Automation Engineering Apprentice

Matteson, IL

You'll train alongside experienced Automation Engineers, Technicians, and OEM partners to develop your understanding of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), Motor ...

Intellectt INC

Automation Manufacturing Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

... Engineering Technician with strong knowledge of industrial automation systems and manufacturing operations. The candidate will support commercial manufacturing and packaging lines by troubleshooting ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsAutomation Engineering Technician Jobs

Automation Engineering Technician information

See salary details

$18

$32

$45

How much do automation engineering technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 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:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineering Technician jobs? For Automation Engineering Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automation Engineering Technician jobs near you
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 Sr.

Automation Engineering Technician Sr.

Cooper Companies

Livingston, NJ • On-site

$45K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Scope: 

The Genomics Automation Specialist serves as the technical owner for assigned laboratory automation systems at the Livingston site. This position is responsible for ensuring reliable, compliant, and efficient operation of automated laboratory platforms through preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, validation support, lifecycle management, and continuous improvement. The role partners closely with Automation Engineering while progressively assuming ownership of assigned systems, serving as the site automation subject matter expert, and supporting standardization of automation practices across Cooper Genomics.

Travel: 

<10%

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose mechanical, electrical, software, and process-related issues.
  • Working knowledge of automated laboratory systems, robotics, liquid handling platforms, instrumentation, or related automated equipment.
  • Understanding of mechanical systems, motors, sensors, pneumatics, and basic electrical principles.
    Ability to perform preventive maintenance, equipment setup, calibration, and operational support activities.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, equipment manuals, SOPs, work instructions, and engineering drawings.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a regulated environment.
    Ability to accurately document maintenance activities, investigations, equipment performance, and corrective actions.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to collaborate across laboratory operations, quality, engineering, and vendor teams.
  • Experience modifying automation methods, troubleshooting automation software, and supporting validated laboratory automation workflows.
  • Knowledge of validation, change control, deviation management, and quality system requirements preferred.
    Commitment to safety, quality, compliance, and continuous improvement.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex laboratory automation systems while serving as a technical resource for laboratory operations and engineering.

Work Environment:

  • Occasional lifting of up to 35 kilograms may be required.

  • Ability to work in uncomfortable positions, when required. For example, when repairing various manufacturing equipment.

Experience:

  • Minimum 4 years of experience supporting laboratory automation systems, laboratory instrumentation, manufacturing automation systems, or related technical equipment.
  • Experience working in a regulated environment (CLIA, CAP, FDA, GxP, Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, or Life Sciences) preferred.
  •  

Education:

  • Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Automation, Electronics, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, or a related technical discipline required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Automation, or related field preferred.

Job Summary:

The Genomics Automation Specialist is responsible for the operation, maintenance, qualification, continuous improvement, and lifecycle management of assigned laboratory automation platforms. The role serves as the primary automation resource for designated systems and partners with laboratory operations, quality, engineering, IT, and external vendors to ensure validated, compliant, and reliable laboratory automation.

Works collaboratively with Automation Engineering to support automation strategy while independently managing assigned laboratory automation systems.

Acts as the designated technical owner and subject matter expert for assigned laboratory automation platforms throughout their operational lifecycle.

Essential Functions & Accountabilities:

  1. Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, calibration, and operational checks on laboratory automation systems and supporting instrumentation.
  2. Troubleshoot automation hardware, software, and process-related issues to rapidly restore system functionality and minimize operational downtime.
  3. Execute equipment setup, installation, qualification, and validation activities in support of new automation platforms, process improvements, and system upgrades.
  4. Assist with investigation, root cause analysis, corrective actions, and resolution of automation-related deviations, equipment failures, and performance issues.
  5. Support automated liquid handling systems, thermal control devices, robotic transport systems, and associated laboratory instrumentation.
  6. Perform basic automation software configuration, method execution support, system backups, and approved programming modifications under engineering guidance.
  7. Maintain equipment documentation, maintenance records, calibration records, validation documentation, and change control records in accordance with quality system requirements.
  8. Coordinate with laboratory operations, quality assurance, engineering, and external vendors to support equipment maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  9. Assist in the development, revision, and execution of SOPs, work instructions, preventive maintenance procedures, and training materials related to laboratory automation systems.
  10. Monitor automation system performance and identify opportunities to improve reliability, throughput, compliance, and operational efficiency.
  11. Support spare parts inventory management, consumable tracking, and equipment lifecycle activities to ensure continued system availability.
  12. Adhere to all applicable safety, quality, regulatory, and data integrity requirements while working within a regulated laboratory environment.
  13. Remain current on advancements in laboratory automation technologies and participate in ongoing technical training and professional development activities.
  14. Provide day-to-day operational support for automated laboratory systems and serve as a primary resource for first-line automation troubleshooting and maintenance activities.
  15. Serve as the primary system owner for assigned laboratory automation platforms, ensuring equipment remains qualified, compliant, operational, and aligned with laboratory requirements.
  16. Lead technical investigations for automation-related deviations, recommend corrective actions, and coordinate implementation across cross-functional teams.
  17. Identify, develop, and implement continuous improvement initiatives that improve automation reliability, throughput, compliance, and user experience.
  18. Provide technical mentorship and knowledge transfer to laboratory personnel, new automation specialists, and cross-functional teams supporting automated laboratory systems.
  19. Participate in evaluation, implementation, and commissioning of new automation platforms while supporting standardization of automation practices across multiple laboratory sites.


 

Apply