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Manufacturing Automation Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

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Controls/Automation Engineer Location: Detroit Lakes, MN (Remote after one year) Relocation ... supporting automated manufacturing systems . · Excellent benefits including medical, dental ...

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Automated Inspection Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$88K - $113K/yr

Automated Inspection Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to ... automation systems across 3M manufacturing operations. The group applies machine vision and ...

Ten (10) years of engineering experience, preferably in manufacturing, project, converting, automation, or equipment design in a private, public, government or military environment * Three (3) years ...

Ten (10) years of engineering experience, preferably in manufacturing, project, converting, automation, or equipment design in a private, public, government or military environment * Three (3) years ...

The Automation Controls Engineer is a professional responsible for using technology to improve and streamline a manufacturing process through automation. Depending on their specific assignment, he ...

Showing results 21-40

Manufacturing Automation Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$45.1K

$98.4K

$133.7K

How much do manufacturing automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing automation engineer in Minnesota is $98,389.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,700.00 and $108,700.00 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Automation Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,389 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Design Automation Engineer

White Bear Lake, MN • On-site

Wilson Tool International
Machinery Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

$43 - $58/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Location: White Bear Lake
Department: Design Automation Engineering
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Operations Manager
About Us
We are a global manufacturer specializing in sheet metal tooling. Our engineering and automation solutions support a wide range of product lines across all our international entities, ensuring consistent quality, innovation, and efficiency throughout our global operations.
We are seeking a Design Automation Engineer to help drive innovation through advanced CAD automation, internal and external configurators, and other related efficiency tools. If you thrive on solving complex problems, improving processes, and creating intelligent automated solutions, we want to hear from you.
Position Summary
The Design Automation Engineer is responsible for developing, maintaining, and optimizing automated design, engineering, and sales-driven tools that support all product lines across all international company entities. This role leverages advanced CAD skills, automation tools, programming, and configuration technologies to streamline internal processes, enhance design accuracy and throughput, and innovate internal & external user-facing solutions.
The position requires expert-level SolidWorks capabilities, strong mathematical and analytical skills, and a deep understanding of manufacturing practices. The Engineer will work cross-functionally with all departments and global operations entities to ensure high-performance automation tools and workflows that meet evolving business needs.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, implement, and maintain scalable automation tools, including CAD automations, layout tools, sales/industry calculators, and user-facing configurators (internal & external)
  • Support automation initiatives across all business units and product lines
  • Build and maintain advanced SolidWorks-based models/assemblies/DWGs, templates, etc.
  • Develop/maintain scripts, macros, and process automations and related tools to optimize productivity
  • Assist IT administrators with optimization of PDM/SolidWorks system, including task automation, data structure improvement, and user/upgrade support
  • Collaborate with Sales teams to develop calculators and configurators that enhance quoting accuracy and reduce turnaround time
  • Evaluate, troubleshoot, and continuously improve automation tools through root-cause analysis and iterative development
  • Work cross-functionally with all business units to ensure automation tools reflect real-world production capabilities and constraints
  • Create accurate and reliable engineering formulas within automation tools
  • Provide documentation, training, and ongoing support for internal users of automation systems
  • Lead problem-solving efforts to find innovative, efficient, solutions to complex internal and external customer challenges
  • Stay abreast of evolving AI opportunities to improve current and future automations
  • Participate in and sustain 5s efforts
  • Miscellaneous duties as required

Qualifications Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Advanced or expert-level SolidWorks proficiency (including GD&T)
  • Proven ability to self-manage complex projects and identify optimal design/solution intent for assigned projects with limited guidance
  • High-level understanding of manufacturing processes, preferably in precision tooling, machining, or sheet metal manufacturing
  • Strong math skills (Geometry/Algebra/Trigonometry)
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Strong organization and troubleshooting skills
  • Proven ability to solve complex challenges
Preferred:
  • Experience with CPQ tools such as DriveWorks and/or Experlogix and associated technologies (DynaMaker etc.)
  • Fluidity writing Excel based rules/formulas
  • VBA programming experience
  • TypeScript/JavaScript programming experience
  • Background as a PDM Administrator (or advanced user) would also be helpful
  • Competency with Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP and Experlogix CPQ
  • Microsoft applications suite (Word, Excel etc.)

Compensation: Non Exempt - Hourly $43-$58 DOQ
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Inside; Office and some manufacturing floor.
MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT, AND WORK AIDS
Working knowledge of manufacturing machines and inspection equipment.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Wilson Tool is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Why Join Us?
  • Opportunity to work on high-impact automation projects with global reach
  • Collaborative environment with strong support from Operations Management
  • Competitive compensation and benefits
  • Career development opportunities within an innovative, industry-leading company
  • Ability to influence the direction of automation across multiple product lines and international teams

www.wilsontool.com/careers