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Automation Engineering Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

The Reliability & Maintenance Engineering (RME) team are the business partners that work tirelessly ... About the Role: As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing ...

Actalent

Automation Engineer

KY

This position collaborates closely with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to define automation requirements, quote and justify new equipment, and ensure that automated systems meet internal and ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Louisville, KY · 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

Lexington, KY · 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

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

Covington, KY · 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

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

Frankfort, KY · 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

Owensboro, KY · 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 ...

Amazon

Reg. Automation Eng

Erlanger, KY · On-site

As the Regional Automation Engineer, you will engage on all aspects of high-level support for the ... control systems within a region of Amazon sites. This work takes the form of direct field ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Engineering JobsAutomation Engineering Jobs in Kentucky

Automation Engineering information

See Kentucky salary details

$32.1K

$93K

$141.6K

How much do automation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineering in Kentucky is $93,042.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $107,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automation engineering?

Automation engineering is a field that focuses on designing, developing, and implementing systems and technologies to automate processes in manufacturing, production, and other industries. Automation engineers work with hardware, software, and control systems to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability while reducing human intervention. Their work often involves programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated equipment and processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation engineer?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, programming, and process control, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and certifications like ISA or Siemens are commonly required technical proficiencies. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills that set outstanding automation engineers apart. These skills and qualifications are essential to design, implement, and maintain efficient automated systems that improve productivity and ensure operational reliability.

What are some common challenges faced by automation engineers when implementing new systems, and how can they be addressed?

Automation engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation solutions with legacy equipment, ensuring system reliability, and managing project timelines. Effective communication with cross-functional teams—including IT, production, and maintenance—is crucial to address compatibility issues and minimize downtime. Staying proactive with documentation, thorough testing, and continuous learning helps overcome these obstacles and ensures smooth implementation of automation projects.

What is the difference between Automation Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectAutomation EngineeringElectrical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or related fields; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilities, automation system designPower plants, electrical systems, electronics labs, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications
Common Search/ComparisonAutomation Engineering vs Electrical Engineering

Automation Engineering focuses on designing and implementing automated systems and control processes in manufacturing and industrial settings. Electrical Engineering covers a broader range of electrical systems, power distribution, and electronics. While both roles require technical knowledge, Automation Engineers specialize in control systems, sensors, and automation software, whereas Electrical Engineers work more with electrical circuits, power systems, and electronics design.

Are automation engineers in high demand?

Automation engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, technology, and energy due to the increasing adoption of robotics, control systems, and process automation. Strong skills in programming, control systems, and familiarity with tools like PLCs and SCADA systems enhance job prospects in this field.

What does an automation engineer do?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software workflows, or industrial operations. They use tools like PLCs, robotics, and scripting languages to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and optimize performance in various environments. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of control systems are essential for this role.

What does an automation engineer make?

An automation engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. They design, develop, and implement automated systems using tools like PLCs, robotics, and control software, often requiring knowledge of programming languages such as Python or C++.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky?

For Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineering jobs in Kentucky are:

Automation Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineering job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,042 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Automation Engineering Specialist

Reynolds Consumer Products

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Reynolds Consumer Products rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Join Reynolds Consumer Products...and Drive Your Career across a world of opportunities!
We currently have an opportunity for a Automation Engineering Specialist at our Manufacturing Facility in Louisville, KY.
NIGHT SHIFT
7:00pm - 7:00am
2/2/3
Responsibilities
The Automation Engineering Specialist provides technical expertise to support, optimize, and continuously improve automated manufacturing systems that enable safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role serves as the primary subject matter expert for automation and control systems, partnering across Engineering, Maintenance, Production, and union craft teams to maximize equipment reliability, improve operational performance, and reduce unplanned downtime. The position influences plant performance by leading technical troubleshooting, supporting capital improvements, evaluating emerging automation technologies, and implementing sustainable process enhancements. Operating with a high degree of autonomy, the Automation Engineering Specialist analyzes complex technical challenges, recommends practical solutions, and drives continuous improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, and equipment effectiveness. Through strong cross-functional collaboration and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business information, this role enables informed decision-making while supporting operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and long-term manufacturing performance.
You Will Have the Opportunity to Make Great Things Happen!
Automation Systems & Equipment Reliability
  • Maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and optimize automated manufacturing equipment and industrial control systems to maximize equipment availability and operational reliability.
  • Diagnose and resolve complex electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, instrumentation, and control system issues to minimize production downtime.
  • Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities that improve equipment performance and extend asset life.
  • Support the installation, startup, commissioning, and validation of new automation equipment, production systems, and process improvements.
  • Evaluate equipment performance trends and recommend improvements that increase reliability, safety, and operational efficiency.

Controls Engineering & Process Improvement
  • Support the configuration, programming, testing, and optimization of programmable control systems and automated manufacturing processes.
  • Analyze production and equipment performance to identify opportunities for automation improvements, process optimization, and cost reduction.
  • Test and validate new automation technologies, control strategies, and production equipment to ensure operational effectiveness and business value.
  • Recommend capital improvement opportunities supported by technical and financial justification.

Technical Support & Business Partnership
  • Partner with Engineering, Maintenance, Production, Quality, and Operations to resolve technical issues and improve manufacturing performance.
  • Coordinate automation-related work activities with Maintenance Supervisors, approved contractors, and union craft personnel while adhering to labor agreements and plant procedures.
  • Communicate complex technical information in a clear and concise manner to support informed operational and business decisions.
  • Serve as the plant automation subject matter expert by providing technical guidance and recommendations across multiple functional areas.

Documentation & Compliance
  • Maintain accurate documentation of maintenance activities, equipment modifications, troubleshooting efforts, and system improvements.
  • Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical drawings, and engineering documentation to support maintenance and project execution.
  • Ensure all automation activities comply with company policies, applicable regulations, and established safety requirements, including Lockout/Tagout procedures.

You Will Love It Here If...
  • You listen, learn, and evolve
  • You thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • You put safety first, always
  • You are passionate about collaboration, teamwork, and achieving shared goals
  • You believe in treating all people with respect, operating ethically, and growing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace
  • You are committed to improving our impact on local communities and creating positive experiences

Qualifications
Education/Experience
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, or a related technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
  • 2-4 years of experience supporting industrial automation equipment, PLCs, HMIs, and control systems. (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Fanuc)

Preferred
  • Experience working within a manufacturing or industrial production environment.
  • Project Management
  • Wonderware
  • DCS
  • ABB
  • Lean Manufacturing Practices

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
  • Experience troubleshooting industrial electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and control systems.
  • Experience supporting programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, industrial robotics, and automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Strong knowledge of industrial automation principles and manufacturing control systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to diagnose and resolve complex equipment and process issues.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to simplify complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to build collaborative working relationships across Engineering, Maintenance, Production, contractors, and union-represented employees.
  • Working knowledge of industrial safety practices, including Lockout/Tagout requirements.

Competencies
  • Tech Savvy - Applies technical expertise to solve complex automation challenges while continuously expanding knowledge of emerging manufacturing technologies.
  • Optimizes Work Processes - Continuously improves equipment reliability and operational efficiency through disciplined analysis and process optimization.
  • Collaborates - Builds productive partnerships across technical and operational teams to achieve shared business objectives.
  • Drives Results - Demonstrates urgency and accountability to deliver reliable, high-quality technical solutions that improve manufacturing performance.
  • Problem Solving - Uses sound judgment, analytical thinking, and data to identify root causes and implement sustainable corrective actions.
  • Communicates Effectively - Clearly conveys technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, enabling informed decision-making.

Want to know more? Check out our website or connect with us on LinkedIn!
Apply today to join a fast-growing innovative company!
Not a good fit but know someone who is? Please refer them!
Local candidates only, no relocation assistance available
Join Reynolds Consumer Products and Drive Your Career across a world of opportunities!
For applicants or employees who are disabled or require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may request assistance by emailing us at Recruitment@ReynoldsBrands.com.
No recruiter calls or emails please.
RCP affords equal employment opportunities to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, disability status, sex, marital status, protected veteran status, pregnancy, national origin, genetics, genetic information, parental status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. RCP conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

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