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Manufacturing Automation Engineer Jobs in Connecticut

Automation Engineer

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

... Manufacturing Machinery_ . REMOTE WORK FROM HOME AVAILABLE Seeking experience with designing ... Automation Engineer Controls Designer PLCs Programmable Logic Controllers Programmer Integration ...

Automation Engineer

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

... Manufacturing Machinery_ . REMOTE WORK FROM HOME AVAILABLE Seeking individual with background in ... Automation Engineer Controls Designer PLCs Programmable Logic Controllers Programmer Integration ...

Senior, Automation Engineer

Norwich, CT

$104K - $136K/yr

Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) initiatives. #LI-NS1 Electrical & Controls Engineering * Design, specify, and troubleshoot electrical control systems ...

Senior, Automation Engineer

Norwich, CT · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) initiatives. #LI-NS1 Electrical & Controls Engineering * Design, specify, and troubleshoot electrical control systems ...

Sr. Manager, Automation Engineering

Wallingford, CT · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

The Sr. Manager assesses current-state manufacturing processes across Vantedge's production ... Manage a team of approximately nine automation engineers and technicians at the Wallingford in ...

Serve as a subject matter expert in automation and systems engineering. * Stay current with ... Familiarity with high-volume distribution, manufacturing, or e-commerce environments. * Experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

Manufacturing Automation Engineer information

See Connecticut salary details

$43.8K

$95.6K

$129.8K

How much do manufacturing automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing automation engineer in Connecticut is $95,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a manufacturing automation engineer do?

A Manufacturing Automation Engineer designs, develops, and implements automated systems and processes within manufacturing facilities to increase efficiency, safety, and product quality. They work with robotics, control systems, and computer-aided technologies to optimize production processes. Their responsibilities often include programming automation equipment, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineers and technicians to ensure smooth operation of automated manufacturing lines.

What are some common challenges a manufacturing automation engineer faces when introducing new technologies to existing production lines?

A Manufacturing Automation Engineer often encounters challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, ensuring minimal downtime during installation, and training staff to adapt to updated processes. Managing resistance to change among operators and coordinating with cross-functional teams, such as maintenance and IT, are also frequent hurdles. Successful engineers proactively communicate with stakeholders and prioritize thorough testing to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing productivity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, robotics, control systems, and industrial automation, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, CAD software, and certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are highly valuable. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies enable engineers to design efficient automated systems, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive continuous improvements in manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Automation Engineer vs Manufacturing Process Engineer?

AspectManufacturing Automation EngineerManufacturing Process Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and implementing automation systemsOptimizing manufacturing processes and workflows
Skills & CertificationsPLC programming, robotics, control systems, certifications like FANUC or SiemensProcess analysis, Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories with automation equipment, robotics labsProduction lines, process development areas
Industry UsageAutomotive, electronics, consumer goods manufacturingPharmaceuticals, food production, general manufacturing

While both roles aim to improve manufacturing efficiency, Manufacturing Automation Engineers focus on automating production through robotics and control systems, whereas Manufacturing Process Engineers optimize overall processes for better quality and efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs in Connecticut?

For Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs in Connecticut are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Automation Engineer job openings in Connecticut as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $95,564 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Automation

Meriden, CT • On-site

Thermo Fisher Scientific
Biotechnology Research and Development • 10K+ employees

$84K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 430 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Work Schedule
First Shift (Days)
Environmental Conditions
Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Office, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)
Job Description
As a Manufacturing Engineer III at Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will provide hands-on engineering support for manufacturing equipment, automated production systems, and processes within a regulated GMP manufacturing environment. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys working directly with production teams and equipment on the manufacturing floor to troubleshoot technical issues, improve equipment performance, increase manufacturing efficiency, and implement sustainable process improvements.
You will support and optimize mechanical and automated manufacturing systems, including PLC-controlled equipment, robotics, automated processes, and vision systems. You will also lead equipment and process improvement projects, support new product introductions, execute equipment qualifications and process validations, and ensure manufacturing changes are implemented in accordance with GMP and applicable quality requirements.
This position works closely with Controls Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality Engineering, Maintenance, and R&D while maintaining a strong focus on production execution and manufacturing support.
What You Will Do
  • Provide hands-on engineering support for mechanical, automated, and PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment in a GMP production environment.
  • Troubleshoot equipment and manufacturing process issues, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective and preventive solutions.
  • Work closely with controls engineers to optimize automation systems, robotics, manufacturing controls, sensors, and vision systems used within production.
  • Lead manufacturing engineering projects from problem identification and technical assessment through implementation, qualification, and sustained performance.
  • Lead or support equipment qualification and process validation activities, including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols, execution, documentation, and issue resolution.
  • Support equipment installation, commissioning, upgrades, modifications, and production readiness.
  • Partner with Quality to execute change controls, deviations, CAPAs, risk assessments, and other GMP documentation associated with equipment and process changes.
  • Apply structured problem-solving and root-cause-analysis methodologies such as 5-Why, Fishbone, FMEA, and data-driven investigation techniques.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to reduce downtime, scrap, cycle time, and manufacturing cost while improving productivity and quality.
  • Support new product introductions and manufacturing transfers, ensuring equipment, processes, documentation, and production teams are prepared for successful implementation.
  • Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation, including SOPs, work instructions, engineering documentation, process specifications, validation documentation, and equipment-related procedures.
  • Use CAD and other engineering tools to support equipment, tooling, fixture, and manufacturing process improvements.
  • Partner cross-functionally with Manufacturing, Quality, Maintenance, Automation, R&D, and other functions to resolve manufacturing challenges and implement improvements.
  • Manage multiple engineering projects and priorities in a dynamic manufacturing environment while maintaining strong attention to quality, compliance, safety, cost, and schedule.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline plus 3 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience; OR bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline plus 5 years of relevant manufacturing engineering experience.
  • Hands-on experience supporting and troubleshooting mechanical and automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Experience with manufacturing automation and control systems, such as PLCs, robotics, automated equipment, machine/vision systems, sensors, or related controls technologies.
  • Experience with equipment qualification and/or process validation, including IQ/OQ/PQ or comparable qualification methodologies.
  • Strong project-management and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and structured problem-solving capabilities.
  • Experience developing and maintaining manufacturing/engineering documentation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant engineering/manufacturing software.
  • Ability to work directly within manufacturing and cleanroom environments as required.
  • Ability to travel up to 20%.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or advanced degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Manufacturing, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
  • Experience supporting Fanuc or other industrial robotics.
  • Experience with PLC-controlled equipment and industrial automation platforms.
  • Experience with machine vision systems such as Cognex, Keyence, or comparable technologies.
  • Experience implementing or qualifying new automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, or comparable continuous-improvement certification.
  • Demonstrated application of Lean tools such as 5S, Kaizen, standard work, value-stream mapping, OEE, and waste reduction.
  • Experience supporting new product introduction, manufacturing scale-up, or technology transfer into production.
  • Experience delivering measurable improvements in equipment uptime, OEE, throughput, yield, cycle time, scrap, labor efficiency, or manufacturing cost.

What Success Looks Like
The strongest candidate will bring a combination of hands-on manufacturing engineering, automated/mechanical equipment expertise, and GMP experience. They will be comfortable spending time on the production floor diagnosing equipment and process problems, working with operators and technical teams, and implementing solutions within a controlled quality system.
This role is best suited for an engineer whose experience has been centered on supporting and improving manufacturing operations, rather than primarily R&D, laboratory development, or Quality functions.
Compensation and Benefits
The salary range estimated for this position based in Connecticut is $110,000.00-$130,000.00.
This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
  • A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
  • Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
  • At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
  • Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
  • Employees' Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards

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