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Automation Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

The Automation Engineer works under the supervision of the Maintenance Manager, handling a wide ... operators * Work with engineering to design the function and operation of conveyor for all ...

Deploy, monitor, and maintain automation hardware, operating systems and application software to drive plant KPIs. * Troubleshoot and lend technical support for automated manufacturing processes and ...

Essential Functions/Key Deliverables Deploy, monitor, and maintain automation hardware, operating systems and application software to drive plant KPIs. Troubleshoot and lend technical support for ...

Essential Functions/Key Deliverables • Deploy, monitor, and maintain automation hardware, operating systems and application software to drive plant KPIs. • Troubleshoot and lend technical support ...

We help organizations operate, secure, and modernize complex environments by unifying infrastructure, networking, data, security, automation, and observability under a single, integrated operating ...

We help organizations operate, secure, and modernize complex environments by unifying infrastructure, networking, data, security, automation, and observability under a single, integrated operating ...

Automation Engineer

Mechanicsburg, PA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Knowledge of automation tools including Ansible, version control systems including Git, operating systems including RHEL and Windows, and virtualization including VMware * Ability to develop tools ...

Automation Equipment Operator

Woodland, PA · On-site

$22.05 - $25.55/hr

Hourly Wage: $22.05 - $25.55 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly ...

... operator and maintenance training programs tailored to each customer's technical maturity • ... automation projects from design through customer acceptance • Experience programming cobots or ...

Showing results 21-40

Automation Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$51.6K

$122.1K

$168.4K

How much do automation operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation operator in Pennsylvania is $122,147.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,200.00 and $136,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation operator do?

An Automation Operator is responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining automated systems in manufacturing, broadcasting, or other industries. They ensure that equipment runs smoothly, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments to optimize performance. Their role often involves working with robotics, computer-controlled machinery, or software-driven processes. Strong technical skills and attention to detail are essential to minimize downtime and ensure efficiency.

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

To thrive as an Automation Operator, you need a solid understanding of automated systems, mechanical processes, and troubleshooting, often supported by vocational training or relevant technical certifications. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with team members are key soft skills. Mastering both technical and interpersonal competencies ensures safe, efficient operations and effective teamwork in fast-paced manufacturing or industrial settings.

What does a typical day look like for an automation operator?

As an Automation Operator, you will spend your day monitoring and controlling automated equipment to ensure production runs smoothly and efficiently. You’ll frequently conduct equipment checks, address minor technical issues, and record production data, often collaborating with maintenance and engineering teams if more complex problems arise. Routine responsibilities also include maintaining safety standards, calibrating instruments, and performing quality inspections on finished products. The role is usually shift-based in a manufacturing or industrial environment, requiring you to be alert, proactive, and ready to respond quickly to any operational changes. This dynamic work environment offers opportunities to continuously learn and develop technical expertise.

Are automation operator jobs in demand?

Automation operator jobs are in demand due to the increasing adoption of automated systems in manufacturing, energy, and logistics industries. These roles often require knowledge of control systems, PLC programming, and troubleshooting skills, and employment prospects are expected to grow as companies seek to improve efficiency and reduce labor costs.

What is an automation operator?

An automation operator is a worker responsible for monitoring and controlling automated manufacturing or processing systems, often using specialized software and equipment. They ensure equipment runs smoothly, troubleshoot issues, and perform routine maintenance, typically requiring technical skills and safety training. The role often involves working in industrial environments with a focus on efficiency and safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Operator jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Automation Operator jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Automation Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,147 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

York Container is an industry leader in the manufacture of performance-based brown box, multi-color display-ready, and e-commerce corrugated packaging to some of the most well-known names in the Consumer Products world.  We are currently looking for experienced Automation Engineers.  This is an onsite position in York, PA.

Job Summary:

The Automation Engineer works under the supervision of the Maintenance Manager, handling a wide variety of electrical projects and upgrades that support and improve the production equipment / area. Primary role will be to support maintenance with all electrical / controls downtime in the plant. Position will provide support to the Director of Engineering and Maintenance Manager throughout the design and development phase of a project. The Automation Engineer will prepare plans for projects, oversee, and provide updates on progress, lead the install of projects, and work through issues that arise during the projects.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Work with Engineering to assist with new equipment installs
  • Work with equipment manufacturers and Engineering to create CAD layouts for equipment relocations and new equipment installs
  • Make upgrades to equipment conveyor lines
  • Meet and work with automation and robotic equipment manufacturers to automate equipment lines and engineer and install new equipment lines
  • Make program changes to existing conveyor lines to optimize flow through the plant
  • Form new programs to modify function of current conveyor lines as function requirements change to match new production goals
  • Maintain and update all conveyor cabinet and control schematics
  • Work with Purchasing and Maintenance to maintain critical conveyor spare parts inventory
  • Research new options available in the conveyor market and work with engineering to integrate them into YCC’s production environment
  • Manage and assist with all conveyor relocations and new equipment installs
  • Train and mentor select Maintenance personnel on all conveyor programming, operation, and automation to expand Maintenance’s ability to repair and improve existing conveyor lines

Other Functions:

  • Make upgrades to conveyor cabinets to address processor (PLC) and component obsolescence
  • Make upgrades to conveyor cabinets so that all cabinets can communicate with all other cabinets and be accessed remotely via an online connection
  • Make upgrades to conveyor control stations so that all conveyor function and operation is intuitive to any operator
  • Research, select, program, and install touchscreen controls on all high traffic area control stations in the plant to simplify the function of the respective conveyor zone to operators
  • Work with engineering to design the function and operation of conveyor for all relocated equipment lines and all newly installed equipment lines

In addition to the functions listed above, the employee is expected to: exercise honesty, integrity and respect with all clients and co-workers, maintain a professional appearance and demeanor, demonstrate a positive attitude, communicate effectively with co-workers and clients, work with accuracy, efficiency, and attention to detail, maintain good attendance by working when and where directed, work safely in compliance with all safety policies, respect the work environment and keep it as neat and clean as possible, and exercise initiative to learn new skills and tasks and to help co-workers when possible.  The employee is also expected to perform such other duties and functions as required and assigned from time to time.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Work on-call with maintenance to support electrical drive / plc / controls troubleshooting in the plant
  • Identify new projects / areas for improvement from sources of equipment downtime in the plant
  • Meet and work with automation / robotic equipment manufacturers to automate current and new equipment lines
  • Make program changes to existing conveyor lines to optimize flow through the plant
  • Form new programs to modify function of current conveyor lines as function requirements change to match new production goals
  • Research new options available in the current corrugated equipment market and work with engineering to integrate them into current production environment
  • Work with engineering to assist with new equipment installs
  • Manage and assist with all conveyor relocations and new equipment installs
  • Train and mentor select maintenance personnel on all plc programming, operation, and automation to expand maintenance’s ability to repair and improve existing automated equipment lines
  • Setup and execute plc / battery / memory backup / program PM for all hardware and software in the plant

Other Functions:

  • Make upgrades to existing conveyor / converting equipment cabinets to address processor (PLC) and component obsolescence
  • Make upgrades to existing conveyor cabinets so that all cabinets can communicate with all other cabinets and be accessed remotely via an online connection
  • Work with IT to setup and maintain remote login capabilities for all equipment manufacturers to all converting equipment for remote troubleshooting
  • Work with Engineering and Maintenance to identify and complete new projects that eliminate repeat automation / controls downtime in the plant.
  • Testing and Verifying function of all refurbished drives / motors / etc. supporting the maintenance department’s critical spare parts inventory
  • Identify and work with Purchasing to acquire any software needed to support plc’s and automation in the plant

In addition to the functions listed above, the employee is expected to exercise honesty, integrity and respect with all clients and co-workers, maintain a professional appearance and demeanor, demonstrate a positive attitude, communicate effectively with co-workers and clients, work with accuracy, efficiency, and attention to detail, maintain good attendance by working when and where directed, work safely in compliance with all safety policies, respect the work environment and keep it as neat and clean as possible, and exercise initiative to learn new skills and tasks and to help co-workers when possible.  The employee is also expected to perform such other duties and functions as required and assigned from time to time.

Qualifications: 

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering preferred
  • 2 – 5 years Industrial Electrical Maintenance experience preferred
  • Good verbal and written communication skills with ability to communicate effectively with contractors, service techs (onsite/phone support), and fellow employees
  • Understands various aspects of an industrial facility including structural, electrical, plumbing systems, etc.
  • Ability to work additional hours and weekends as necessary to meet business plan objectives
  • Fluent with schematics and blueprints
  • Proficiency in MS Excel & Word is a plus

Machines/Tools/Equipment:

CAD experience preferred, usage of Tape measure, Calipers, various measurement equipment.

Working Conditions:

Frequent manufacturing environment: working around machinery, moving equipment, and loud noise (hearing protection required), Environment is not climate controlled and there is exposure to a wide range of temperatures (temperature varies depending on work/machine location and ranges from 50-degree F to 100 degree F), Possibility of outside work in all types of weather conditions (including heat, cold, rain, and snow)

Safety: 

Employees are expected to follow all facility safety guidelines that include adhering to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and Food Safety as outlined during their training.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

We strive to create and maintain an inclusive and diverse workforce where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, citizenship, veteran status, gender identity or any other legally protected status.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job.

York Container participates in E-Verify.