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Entry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in Schenectady, NY

We solve process, automation, and data integration challenges in therapeutics, energy, and ... This is not a pure engineering role and it is not a pure sales role. The best fit is someone who ...

Entry Level Automation Engineer information

See Schenectady, NY salary details

$35.8K

$103.6K

$157.7K

How much do entry level automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automation engineer in Schenectady, NY is $103,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,700.00 and $119,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an entry level automation engineer?

To excel as an Entry Level Automation Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python or Java), basic engineering principles, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and experience with automation testing software, as well as certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP), are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure you can efficiently create, test, and integrate automated solutions in both collaborative and technical environments.

What is an entry level automation engineer?

An Entry Level Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing automation systems to improve efficiency in manufacturing, software development, or other technical processes. They typically work with tools like PLCs, scripting languages, or robotic systems to automate repetitive tasks. Their role involves collaborating with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and ensure systems operate smoothly. This position requires basic programming knowledge, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of automation principles. It serves as a foundation for advancing into more specialized engineering roles in automation and control systems.

What does an entry level automation engineer do?

As an Entry Level Automation Engineer, your daily tasks may include writing and testing code for automation scripts, helping to design or modify automated systems, troubleshooting issues that arise in automation workflows, and assisting with equipment setup or calibration. You’ll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, learning about various industry processes and participating in project meetings. Documentation of your work and analysis of system performance are also common aspects of the job. These responsibilities provide a solid foundation in automation engineering and offer valuable hands-on experience for career growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY? For Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Schenectady, NY are:
What cities near Schenectady, NY are hiring for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Schenectady, NY with the most Entry Level Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automation Engineer job openings in Schenectady, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,647 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Entry Level Application Engineer

NECI

Clifton Park, NY • On-site

$70K - $78K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About NECI
NECI is an Emerson Impact Partner and provider of industrial automation and digital transformation solutions and services. We solve process, automation, and data integration challenges in therapeutics, energy, and manufacturing with a broad portfolio of product, project, and service capabilities. Our experienced team has a deep knowledge of people, process and systems and relentlessly seeks to drive the outcomes that empower our partners to advance the world. Join in our mission!

The Role

We are looking for an Application Engineer to own the full lifecycle of valve solutions for our customers from first conversation to final delivery. This is not a pure engineering role and it is not a pure sales role. The best fit is someone who thrives in the space between technical problem solving, customer engagement, and commercial results.

You will work closely with Account Managers and Order Management, bringing your valve expertise directly to customer conversations, and be the person customers trust to get it right.


What You'll Do

  • Propose and sell valve solutions - including control, isolation, and safety relief valves - by listening to customer requirements and recommending the right configuration, sizing, and application approach
  • Grow NECI's valve automation business by promoting our reputation as a total valve supplier for ball valves, butterfly valves, valve automation, and complete solutions across a range of industrial customers and process industries
  • Achieve sales goals for new product initiatives by engaging in NECI and principal product launches, uncovering customer needs, and applying the latest technology offerings
  • Provide technical support to customers through start-up, calibration, troubleshooting, and issue resolution and follow through until the problem is solved
  • Coordinate on-time delivery by assessing customer needs, working with suppliers, and taking ownership when customer satisfaction is at risk
  • Identify and develop new sales opportunities while maintaining accurate customer and opportunity data in our CRM platform
  • Partner closely with Account Managers on account growth strategies and territory plans
  • Contribute to NECI's quality management system through continuous improvement, corrective actions, and cross-functional collaboration
  • Stay sharp by attending factory training, principal-based sessions, and professional development opportunities
  • Keep the team informed of market conditions and competitive activity in the territory

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering Mechanical, Industrial, or Chemical preferred
  • 0-2 years of experience in a role involving valves, valve automation, process control, instrumentation, or related industrial technologies
  • Hands-on familiarity with control valves, isolation valves, and/or safety relief valves including sizing, selection, and application
  • Experience in a customer-facing role, even if your title was not "sales" what matters is that you have worked directly with customers to solve technical problems
  • The ability to explain technical solutions clearly to both engineering and non-engineering audiences
  • Strong follow-through - you take ownership and stay involved until the customer gets what they need
  • A results-oriented mindset with genuine drive to grow a business alongside the customers you support
  • Strong organizational skills, ability to work on multiple requests simultaneously and manage competing priorities

Benefits

  • Competitive Medical, Dental & Vison Insurance
  • Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
  • Unlimited Vacation Time Policy
  • 10 Paid Holidays
  • 12 Paid Weeks Birthing Parent Leave
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Pet Insurance
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Company Paid STD, LTD, and Life Insurance

Compensation: This position offers a base salary range of $70,000 to $78,000, based on experience and qualifications. The role is also eligible for a variable compensation plan.

The posted salary range represents a good faith estimate of the expected compensation for this role at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and business needs.

On-Site Requirements

This position requires a full on-site presence 5 days per week during the first 46 months. Following that period, the role will be on-site four days per week, including Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with the fourth on-site day alternating between Tuesday or Friday depending on business needs.

Must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Policy on Third-Party Unsolicited Resume Submissions: Please note that any third-party unsolicited resume submissions will immediately become the property of Stellix and its affiliates. Stellix and its affiliates will not pay any fee to a submitting employment agency, person, or entity unless a signed agreement is established.

Please Note: Stellix and its affiliates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.