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Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Rochester, MN

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Senior Automation Engineer information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$52.3K

$123.9K

$170.8K

How much do senior automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automation engineer in Rochester, MN is $123,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,700.00 and $138,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for automation engineer?

The highest salaries for senior automation engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a strong tech presence. Factors such as experience, certifications, and expertise with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, or scripting languages influence earning potential.

What Is the Job Description of 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Automation Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in scripting and testing tools, and certifications in automation or related fields can earn $200,000 or more annually. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and company size, with those in high-demand sectors or with specialized expertise often reaching this level.

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.

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.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, and knowledge of tools like Python, PLCs, or robotics can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in competitive or high-cost regions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in scripting and control systems, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often found in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, especially for those working in leadership roles or managing large-scale projects.

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 are Senior Automation Engineers?

Senior Automation Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes, often within manufacturing, software development, or IT environments. They are responsible for improving efficiency, reliability, and quality by creating and maintaining automation solutions. Senior Automation Engineers also lead teams, set technical standards, and troubleshoot complex automation issues. Their work often involves programming, system integration, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
More about Senior Automation Engineer jobs
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Senior Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Senior Automation Engineer job openings:
Senior Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Automation Engineer job openings in Rochester, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,864 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Sr Automation Equipment Technician

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Rochester, MN

$41K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 421 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

Work Schedule

Second Shift (Afternoons)

Environmental Conditions

Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards, Cleanroom: no hair products, jewelry, makeup, nail polish, perfume, exposed piercings, facial hair etc... allowed, Loud Noises (Equipment/Machinery), Rapid flashing lights, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)

Job Description

As part of the Thermo Fisher Scientific team, you’ll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life every single day to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our global teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while helping to take science a step beyond by developing solutions for some of the world’s toughest challenges, like protecting the environment, making sure our food is safe or helping find cures for cancer.
DESCRIPTION:
Join our collaborative team at Thermo Fisher Scientific as a Sr Manufacturing Engineering Technician, where you'll contribute to maintaining and optimizing manufacturing processes that enable scientific discoveries. You'll work with advanced equipment and technologies to ensure smooth operations while adhering to quality standards. This position offers the opportunity to apply your technical expertise in supporting manufacturing operations through equipment maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and process improvement initiatives. You'll work with cross-functional teams to resolve technical issues, implement engineering changes, and contribute to continuous improvement projects that enhance product quality and operational efficiency.
REQUIREMENTS:
• 2 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, maintenance, or related technical role
• Preferred Fields of Study: Engineering Technology, Electronics, Instrumentation or related technical field
• Technical/Trade school certification in relevant discipline acceptable
• Additional specialized certifications in areas like calibration, electrical systems, or equipment-specific training advantageous
• Strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical, electrical, and automated systems
• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, P&IDs, and equipment documentation
• Experience with PLC systems, SCADA, and automated manufacturing equipment
• Knowledge of GMP, ISO standards, and regulatory requirements in manufacturing environments
• Demonstrated ability to perform equipment calibration and validation
• Expertise in using precision measurement tools and test equipment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and manufacturing software systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.)
• Experience with preventive maintenance programs and documentation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Ability to work different shifts and respond to emergency calls as needed
• Physical requirements include standing, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in various environmental conditions
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma) preferred
• Proficiency in English required

Compensation and Benefits

The hourly pay range estimated for this position based in New York is $24.00–$28.00.

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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