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Manufacturing Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Sheboygan, WI · On-site

$87K - $112K/yr

The Manufacturing Automation Engineer is a hands-on technical expert responsible for optimizing manufacturing processes through automation. This individual will collect and analyze operational data ...

Manufacturing Automation Engineer As the Manufacturing Automation Engineer, you will support the design, operation, control, and optimization of assets and manufacturing processes at the Elwood ...

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Greencastle, IN · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

We're looking for a qualified, motivated individual to join our company as an Automation Engineer. As part of our team, you will create automated systems for use in a production and manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Mentor, OH · On-site +1

$100K - $150K/yr

Paid vacation and paid holidays Avery Dennison is seeking a Divisional Manufacturing Automation Engineer to join our North America Materials Group (MG-NA). In this remote-based role, you will act as ...

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Mentor, OH · On-site +1

$100K - $150K/yr

Paid vacation and paid holidays Avery Dennison is seeking a Divisional Manufacturing Automation Engineer to join our North America Materials Group (MG-NA). In this remote-based role, you will act as ...

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Manufacturing Automation Engineer information

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$46K

$100.5K

$136.5K

How much do manufacturing automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing automation engineer in the United States is $100,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.
More about Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Manufacturing Automation Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs? The top employers for Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Manufacturing Automation Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,458 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Manufacturing Automation Engineer

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Elwood, KS • On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role: Manufacturing Automation Engineer
As the Manufacturing Automation Engineer, you will support the design, operation, control, and optimization of assets and manufacturing processes at the Elwood, Kansas monoclonal antibody (mAb) manufacturing facility. In this role, you will develop deep process and equipment expertise while contributing to data analysis, troubleshooting, technology transfer, capital project delivery, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will also play a key role in building and improving local engineering systems aligned with Elanco operational standards, while supporting the development of front-line process engineering talent.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Provide end-to-end process engineering support for capital projects, including scope definition, design development, equipment selection, commissioning, qualification, validation, and construction oversight
  • Develop and execute process design tools such as mass and energy balances and support user requirements and technical design specifications
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for process engineering within capital project teams, ensuring alignment with technical, safety, and regulatory requirements
  • Create, review, and maintain key technical documentation including URS, P&IDs, PFDs, validation protocols, and safety/environmental assessments
  • Provide on-floor manufacturing support for troubleshooting, deviation management, and root cause analysis to ensure equipment remains in a qualified state of control
  • Analyze process and equipment data to identify performance gaps and lead engineering-driven improvements to optimize reliability, capacity, and cost
  • Lead or support HAZOPs, process safety reviews, and risk assessments to ensure safe, compliant manufacturing operations and mitigation of hazards
  • Ensure compliance with GMP, regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements while managing change control for equipment, process, and maintenance activities
  • Support development of the Process Engineering function, including KPI definition, standard work creation, talent development, and cross-functional collaboration with manufacturing and engineering teams

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in an Engineering discipline
  • Experience: 5+ years in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or other regulated manufacturing environment
  • Top Skills: Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and experience working in cross-functional teams
  • Working knowledge of cGMP requirements and regulated manufacturing environments. Strong communication, organizational, and computer skills with ability to work independently and deliver results

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • 7+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology manufacturing environment
  • Experience in monoclonal antibody or recombinant protein manufacturing
  • Hands-on experience with upstream and downstream biologics processes (cell culture, purification, chromatography, filtration, viral inactivation, sterilization)
  • Experience in commissioning, qualification, validation, and technology transfer activities
  • Capital project design, execution, and engineering leadership experience
  • Familiarity with systems such as SAP, ERP, AutoCAD, and Veeva Vault
  • Experience applying RCI, FMEA, and QRM methodologies
  • Knowledge of USDA and/or EMA regulations for veterinary biologics
  • Supervisory or people leadership experience

Additional Information:
  • Location: Elwood, Kansas (on-site role)
  • Schedule: Day shift; occasional evening/weekend support may be required for operations
  • Travel: Minimal (<5%)
  • Employment Type: Full-time, permanent, salaried position

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!
Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • Multiple relocation packages
  • 8-week parental leave
  • 9 Employee Resource Groups
  • Annual bonus offering
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Up to 6% 401K matching

Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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