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Automation Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Junior (Instructor / Technical Trainer) - 1-3 years designing or supporting automation workflows. Hands-on experience with tools like Zapier, Make, or n8n. Comfortable walking learners through ...

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Automation Instructor information

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$63.5K

$81.3K

$94K

How much do automation instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation instructor in the United States is $81,282.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $88,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Automation Instructors face when teaching complex technical concepts, and how can they overcome them?

Automation Instructors often encounter challenges such as varying student experience levels and keeping learners engaged with intricate technical material. To address these, effective instructors use real-world examples, interactive labs, and hands-on projects to make abstract concepts more tangible. They also foster an inclusive classroom environment, encouraging questions and peer collaboration to ensure all students can grasp difficult automation topics. Continuous professional development and adapting teaching methods to student feedback are also key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Automation Instructor vs Automation Technician?

AspectAutomation InstructorAutomation Technician
Required CredentialsTypically a relevant technical degree or certification, teaching credentials may be preferredTechnical diploma or certification in automation or related field
Work EnvironmentClassroom, training labs, or online platformsIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, or maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, corporate training centers, automation companiesManufacturing companies, automation service providers, industrial plants
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for training roles and instructional positionsCompared for hands-on technical roles in automation systems

Automation Instructors focus on teaching and training others in automation technologies, often working in educational or corporate settings. Automation Technicians perform hands-on maintenance, troubleshooting, and installation of automation systems in industrial environments. While both roles require knowledge of automation, instructors emphasize education, whereas technicians focus on practical system operation and repair.

What are Automation Instructors?

Automation Instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to use automation tools, systems, and technologies. They typically design and deliver training programs on topics such as industrial automation, robotics, process control, and software automation. Their role is essential in helping students or employees understand automation concepts, operate equipment safely, and apply best practices in real-world settings. Automation Instructors may work in educational institutions, corporate training departments, or technical training centers, and they often keep up with the latest advancements in automation technology.

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

To thrive as an Automation Instructor, you need a solid foundation in automation technologies, programming languages (such as PLC, SCADA, and HMI), and a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Rockwell, Siemens, or ABB systems and experience with training software are typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learning styles are crucial soft skills. These capabilities ensure that instructors can effectively impart complex concepts, foster student engagement, and support successful learning outcomes in a rapidly evolving field.
What cities are hiring for Automation Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Automation Instructor job openings:
What job categories do people searching Automation Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Instructor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Automation Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,282 per year, or $39.1 per hour.
Instructor - Industrial Automation IMT

Instructor - Industrial Automation IMT

Universal Technical Institute

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Universal Technical Institute rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

358th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Overview
The Instructor- Industrial Automation IMT is responsible for delivering high-quality technical instruction in industrial automation, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motor controls, robotics fundamentals, and electromechanical systems.
This role provides classroom and hands-on laboratory instruction aligned with current industry standards and workforce expectations. The instructor combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare students for careers in industrial maintenance, automation, and integrated manufacturing systems.
The position requires documented industry experience in industrial controls, automation systems, and electromechanical troubleshooting.
Do you ever ask yourself "I wish I had the opportunity to be a mentor"? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to become an Instructor at Universal Technical Institute!
Never taught? No problem! If you have the drive, patience, skills, and passion we'll train you! You've come this far to become an amazing technician...why don't you take the next step to make that happen for the next generation of technicians? Nothing is more rewarding than seeing the student you taught succeed, knowing you were the one that made it happen!
What We Offer:
  • $32.00 - $37.00 per hour
  • Weekends OFF
  • Paid Training
  • Tuition Waiver: Enjoy a tuition waiver after 6 months of employment for you AND your immediate family offered at UTI
  • and Concorde campuses
  • Paid Time Off: Competitive paid time off programs for employees (Vacation, Sick, Flexible, Holiday)
  • Retirement Matching: 50% match on the first 6% of your contributions after 90 days
  • Paid Parental Leave: 4 weeks of paid leave for both birthing and non-birthing parents to bond with a new baby
  • Competitive Insurance: Health, vision, and dental coverage for you and your dependents
  • Pet Insurance: Competitive coverage for your furry family members through ASPCA
  • Health Plan Enrollment: Eligibility starts first of the month following completing one full month of employment

Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
  • Inspire and Educate: Create an engaging and inclusive learning environment where students can flourish, fostering their passion for electrical components while imparting your expert knowledge.
  • Hands-On Training: Lead by example and provide practical demonstrations, ensuring students gain real-world experience in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing various systems.
  • Curriculum Development: Collaborate with our education team to enhance existing courses and develop new ones that align with industry trends and advancements.
  • Mentorship: Guide and mentor students on their individual projects, encouraging them to think critically and find innovative solutions.
  • Safety First: Instill the importance of safety procedures and best practices to ensure a secure working environment for students.

Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or GED or/associate degree or higher in Electrical technology, Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, or related field. Prior teaching or training is preferred.
  • Experience: 5 years of practical work experience in the field required. NCCER Certified Instructor is a plus
  • Technical Skills: PLCs, Electrical Industry (Industrial), Industrial Automation, Mechatronics' systems, robotics integration, motor control and industrial power distribution, troubleshooting and diagnostics.
  • Communication Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, enabling you to effectively connect with students and fellow staff
  • Patience and Empathy: A patient and empathetic approach to teaching, understanding that every student learns at their own pace

About Us:
It's all about the reputation. 60 years of experience, trusted by 35+ industry leading brands, 16 campuses, 16 technical programs. But it's not all about the numbers. Here at Universal Technical Institute and its family of schools, we care about YOU. We care about making a change in the lives of our employees and our students. We're on a mission to expand our reach and increase our impact, one life at a time and that starts with yours...Come and be a part of our legacy!
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