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Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Powell

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

Key responsibilities include engineering, testing, maintaining and supporting automation solutions as well as intelligent products in MV/LV switchgear applications. This position does not allow for ...

Powell Industries

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Key responsibilities include engineering, testing, maintaining and supporting automation solutions as well as intelligent products in MV/LV switchgear applications. This position does not allow for ...

The Powell Company

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Key responsibilities include engineering, testing, maintaining and supporting automation solutions as well as intelligent products in MV/LV switchgear applications. This position does not allow for ...

Stantec

Senior Automation Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$94K - $123K/yr

Your Opportunity We are currently seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to join our growing Energy and Resources Team across North America. This position reports to the Discipline Manager ...

Arion Blue

Sr. Automation Engineer (19009)

Houston, TX · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Job Summary: The Sr. Automation Engineer is a technical leader responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of control systems within the energy sector. This role applies deep ...

EDG Inc

Sr. Automation Professional

Houston, TX · On-site

$99K - $130K/yr

Industry *Technology & Automation Position Sr. Automation Professional Req Code 2933 General ... Engineering Employment Type: Full-Time Part-Time Available: No Eligible for US Work Authorization ...

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Senior Automation Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$47.7K

$112.8K

$155.6K

How much do senior automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automation engineer in Houston, TX is $112,828.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,300.00 and $126,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior automation engineer?

The duties of a senior automation engineer are to develop, design, and configure systems that automate processes, such as manufacturing or software processes. Some people in this position work exclusively with software design while others work with hardware design and production. Some may provide both digital and physical solutions to automation problems. Regardless of the field, the responsibilities of a senior automation engineer are to improve efficiency while reducing the number of people it takes to complete a given process. Qualifications typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree, experience in the industry, and leadership skills.

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

To thrive as a Senior Automation Engineer, you need a deep understanding of automation frameworks, scripting languages (such as Python or Java), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, Docker, and CI/CD systems, along with certifications like ISTQB or Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, effective communication, and collaboration skills help you excel in guiding teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the reliability, scalability, and efficiency of automated systems in fast-paced technical environments.

How does a senior automation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

Senior Automation Engineers frequently work alongside software developers, QA specialists, and operations teams to design and implement robust automated testing frameworks or process automation solutions. They often lead discussions to identify automation opportunities, define requirements, and ensure that automation integrates smoothly into existing workflows. Effective communication and documentation skills are essential, as they must translate complex technical needs for non-technical stakeholders and align efforts across departments. Collaboration may also involve mentoring junior engineers and conducting code reviews to maintain high standards and consistency.

What is the difference between Senior Automation Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSenior Automation EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often some certifications in automation toolsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications in automation tools are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and overseeing automation systems; leading projectsImplementing automation solutions; supporting existing systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, software, automotive, and industrial sectorsManufacturing, software development, and industrial sectors

Senior Automation Engineers typically have more experience, lead projects, and handle complex automation systems, while Automation Engineers focus on implementing and supporting automation solutions. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but senior roles involve more leadership and strategic responsibilities.

More about Senior Automation Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

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For Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities near Houston, TX with the most Senior Automation Engineer job openings:

Senior Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Automation Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $116,367 per year, or $55.9 per hour.

Senior Automation Engineer

Applied Optoelectronics, Inc.

Sugar Land, TX • On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Engineer to lead the design, implementation, optimization, and long-term operation of the whole fab automation systems, including AGV fleets, Overhead Hoist Transport (OHT), Smart Inventory, robotics, MES integration, SECS/GEM, and other automation technologies. As the technical leader for automation within the Optical Module Department, this role will define automation strategy, lead major automation projects, establish engineering standards, collaborate with vendors and cross-functional teams, and mentor engineering and maintenance personnel to improve manufacturing efficiency, equipment reliability, and factory productivity.
Job Duties
  • Lead the planning, commissioning, and continuous optimization of factory-wide automation systems, including AGV fleets, OHT, Smart Inventory, robotics, and other automated material handling solutions, to support high-volume optical module manufacturing.
  • Serve as the technical leader, establishing system architecture, engineering standards, preventive maintenance strategies, and long-term technology roadmaps.
  • Lead automation integration projects with manufacturing equipment, including SECS/GEM, E84, MES, WMS, and factory control systems, ensuring seamless communication between automation systems and production tools.
  • Manage automation vendors throughout the project lifecycle, including system specification, design review, FAT/SAT, installation, qualification, acceptance, warranty management, and performance improvement initiatives.
  • Lead root cause analysis for complex mechanical, electrical, controls, communication, and software issues affecting AGV, OHT, Smart Inventory, and other automation infrastructures.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Process, Facilities, IT, Quality, EHS, and Production teams to define automation requirements for new production lines and factory expansion projects.
  • Lead cleanroom automation layout planning, traffic simulation, routing optimization, charging station placement, and material flow analysis to maximize manufacturing efficiency.
  • Develop engineering specifications, SOPs, equipment standards, maintenance documentation, troubleshooting guides, and engineering change procedures.
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to automation engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel through training, coaching, and technical guidance.
  • Support occasional international travel (approximately 10�15%) for supplier audits, equipment acceptance, factory integration, and technical collaboration.
  • Provide technical support during critical production events, new product introductions (NPI), major software deployments, and factory expansion activities.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience in industrial automation, automated material handling systems (AMHS), semiconductor, electronics, or high-tech manufacturing environments.
  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale automation projects involving AGV/AMR, OHT, robotics, conveyors, or automated warehouse systems.
  • Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols, including SECS/GEM, E84, PLC-based control systems, Ethernet/IP OPC UA, or similar industrial networks.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills involving mechanical, electrical, software, networking, and automation control systems.
  • Experience managing equipment vendors, contractors, installation projects, FAT/SAT, and system qualification.
  • Proven project management experience with the ability to lead multiple concurrent automation initiatives.

Preferred:
  • 5+ years of experience in automation engineering, robotics, or high-tech manufacturing equipment validation.
  • Solid knowledge of optical transceiver or optical module assembly and testing processes.
  • Bilingual in Chinese (Mandarin) is a plus.
  • Lead cross-functional automation projects from concept through production.
  • Advanced familiarity with fleet management software or programming language environments. Hands-on experience with PLC programming or industrial automation controls.

Location
This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.
WHY AOI?
  • Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offer the employee with the right options to meet individual needs
  • Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals
  • Unused PTO payout at end of the year
  • Relocation package available within US
  • Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)

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