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Automation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PR · On-site

JC Automation Corp. (JCA) was founded in 1997 with the mission of filling a gap between technology and regulatory requirements in the life science manufacturing industry. The company offers highly ...

Sr. Automation Machine Builder

Wyoming, MI · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

JOB OVERVIEW We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Automation Machine Builder to join our team in Wyoming, Michigan. In this role, you will be responsible for assembling, integrating, and ...

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How much do automation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation in the United States is $116,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,500.00 and $139,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automation and what does an automation professional do?

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. Automation professionals design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in various industries, such as manufacturing, IT, and business operations. Their work often involves programming, configuring control systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. The goal is to improve productivity, reduce errors, and lower operational costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an automation engineer role?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong foundation in programming, process control, and systems integration, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and scripting languages, as well as certifications such as ISA or Siemens, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing efficient automated processes, minimizing errors, and ensuring operational reliability.

What is the job outlook for careers in the automation industry?

Automation is a fast-growing field, and demand for people with advanced qualifications is high. Jobs in automation primarily fall into three categories: designing and building automated machines, maintaining these machines, and programming automation software. Many jobs in this field require a significant amount of industrial engineering or robotics experience. Fulfilling job responsibilities in this industry often requires engineering, math, and communication skills as well as familiarity with programming. Someone in this field may also need to be familiar with electrical systems, delivery pipelines, configuration management tools, networking, or databases to get a job in this industry.

What are some common challenges faced by automation professionals when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Automation professionals often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy systems and new automation tools, ensuring minimal downtime during transitions, and maintaining data integrity. Additionally, coordinating with IT and operations teams is crucial to address security concerns and user training needs. Being proactive in communication and thorough in planning helps to streamline integration and minimize disruptions.

What is the difference between Automation vs Robotics Technician?

AspectAutomationRobotics Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in PLC programming, control systems, or automation softwareRequires certifications or training in robotics, electronics, and mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation system integrationWorks on robotic systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting in similar industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed broadly across manufacturing, automotive, and process industriesSpecialized in robotic system installation, repair, and programming within those industries

Automation professionals focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems, while Robotics Technicians specialize in robotic hardware, troubleshooting, and repair. Both roles often overlap but differ in technical focus and certifications required.

What cities are hiring for Automation jobs?

Cities with the most Automation job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation jobs?

The most popular types of Automation jobs are:

What states have the most Automation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Automation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,607 per year, or $56.1 per hour.

Automation SME - Project Engineer

JC Automation Corp

PR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

About Company:

JC Automation Corp. (JCA) was founded in 1997 with the mission of filling a gap between technology and regulatory requirements in the life science manufacturing industry. The company offers highly capable resources at an affordable cost to build solutions and execute projects in: Automation, Control Systems Integration, Information Technology, System Integration and Regulatory Compliance.

JCA is a HUBZone Certified Small Business Firm, NMSDC Certified Minority Business Enterprise, and Certified Critical Industry Supplier. It’s mission is to add value by delivering quality services & solutions on time all the time by transforming processes & technology into business advantages.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Automation SME – Project Engineer is accountable for technical leadership and project coordination of assigned Automation/IT capital projects. Execution activities may be performed directly by the resource or through oversight and coordination of contractors and system integrators. As a candidate, your company must meet BMS policies, guidelines, and other requirements.

2.1. Capital Project Execution 

  • Lead the development, planning, and execution of Automation/IT/Network Capital Projects.
  • Act as the technical project lead for Automation/IT scope, coordinating engineering, quality, validation, IT, and vendors through all project phases. 
  • Define project scope, schedules, cost estimates, risks, and deliverables.
  • Provide routine project status reporting, milestone tracking, and risk mitigation plans.
  • Resolve complex technical and design issues arising during project execution, construction, and start‑up, ensuring decisions support regulatory compliance, safety, product quality, cost, and schedule objectives.
  • Provide clear and timely communication on Project Engineering activities, risks, and milestones to internal stakeholders and management.  Support Capital Appropriation Requests (CARs), budgeting, and financial tracking.
  • Coordinate project execution activities with EHS to ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and waste‑handling requirements throughout all project phases.
  • Review vendor quotations, develop technical specifications, and support procurement activities, including purchase requisitions and technical evaluation of equipment and services for Automation/IT capital projects.

2.2. Automation and Systems Engineering

  • Lead and/or support the design, specification, procurement, installation, commissioning, and start-up of automation and computerized systems.
  • Provide SME support for systems including, but not limited to:
  • PLCs, HMI, SCADA, DCS/BAS o DeltaV, Rockwell Automation, FactoryTalk, Siemens, Wonderware o MES systems (e.g., Syncade), data historians (OSI PI), databases (MS SQL), and virtualization platforms
  • Review and approve automation architectures, network designs, and system configurations.
  • Identify and promote best available automation technologies to meet site and corporate needs. 2.3. Compliance, Quality, and Validation
  • Ensure all project activities comply with: o cGMP, FDA, EMA, OSHA, EPA/EQB o 21 CFR Part 11, Engineering, IT, and Security standards
  • Support execution of the Computer System Validation (CSV) lifecycle, including requirements, specifications, testing, and qualification.
  • Support Performance Qualification (PQ) of equipment and systems installed under capital projects.
  • Participate in quality events, including deviations, investigations, CAPAs, internal audits, and regulatory inspections related to automation systems.
  • Ensure Automation and computerized systems are delivered in a validated state, in compliance with CSV requirements.
  • Support preparation, review, and execution of validation documentation.

2.4. Contractor and Vendor Management 

  • Manage and coordinate external contractors, system integrators, and vendors. 
  • Ensure contractor compliance with safety, environmental, security, and quality requirements. 
  • Review technical proposals, quotations, and specifications. 
  • Coordinate FAT, SAT, commissioning, and start-up activities with vendors and internal stakeholders. 
  • Ensure quality of construction, installation, and system implementation activities for Automation and related infrastructure in accordance with approved designs, specifications, and GMP requirements.

2.5. Documentation and Change Control 

  • Develop, review, and maintain technical and project documentation, including:
  • URS, FRS, DS, and configuration documents.
  • SOPs (Operations, Maintenance, Security, Backup/Restore, Disaster Recovery).
  • Execute and support change control activities related to automation and computerized systems.
  • Ensure proper documentation control, traceability, and data integrity.

2.6. Cross‑Functional Collaboration 

  • Serve as the Automation Project SME for Manufacturing Business Units. 
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, IT, EHS, Purchasing, and Corporate teams. 
  • Provide technical guidance to resolve complex operational and project-related issues. 
  • Support client initiatives by ensuring adherence to Project Management processes and governance.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

Required

The assigned resource must meet the following minimum qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field. 
  • Minimum five (5) years of experience in pharmaceutical operations or manufacturing environments with proven project management experience, of which: o At least four (4) years must be in process automation within a pharmaceutical environment o At least two (2) years must be in computerized systems validation (CSV). 
  • Demonstrated proficiency in computer system lifecycle concepts, change control processes, and FDA regulatory requirements, including 21 CFR Part 11. 
  • Proven experience developing and reviewing Computerized Functional Requirements (CFR/URS) and Design Specifications (DS/FRS). 
  • In-depth knowledge of the design, installation, commissioning, and qualification of computerized systems, PLCs, and automation platforms in pharmaceutical manufacturing. 
  • Broad knowledge of cGMPs, FDA, EMA, and applicable regulatory guidelines for biopharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. 
  • Experience supporting internal and external regulatory audits (e.g., FDA, EMA).  Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, equipment, and automation systems. 
  • Knowledge of electrical controls theory, mechanical concepts, and electronic circuitry, with ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical drawings. 
  • Proven skills in project management, systems development, and implementation of manufacturing automation, MES, and quality-related systems. 
  • Experience with PLC programming platforms, data acquisition systems, historians (e.g., OSI PI), databases (e.g., MS SQL), and industrial networking infrastructures. 
  • Ability to review and support development of SOPs and work instructions. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with ability to resolve complex technical issues based on data. 
  • Fully bilingual English/Spanish, written and verbal. 
  • Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work effectively across all organizational levels and disciplines. 
  • Ability to manage and prioritize multiple complex activities simultaneously. 
  • Self-starter, well organized, flexible, and able to meet deadlines. 
  • Willingness to work irregular hours, weekends, and holidays as required. 
  • Ability to exercise good judgment.

Preferred

  • Experience with CMMS systems (e.g., Maximo).
  • High level of expertise in Rockwell Automation platforms.
  • Experience with Siemens, Wonderware, and FactoryTalk Batch.
  • Experience with virtualization platforms (VMware vSphere).
  • Experience with MES systems (e.g., Syncade).
  • Experience with OSIsoft / AVEVA PI systems and Microsoft SQL databases.

SKILLS

Technical Skills

  • PLCs, HMI, SCADA, DeltaV, FactoryTalk — advanced configuration and troubleshooting
  • MES systems — support and integration
  • Change control execution and CAPA support in regulated environments
  • Automation procedure development — SOPs, security plans, backup/restore, disaster recovery
  • cGMP, 21 CFR Part 11, and Data Integrity compliance
  • Quality event investigation and internal audit support
  • Network configuration and industrial communication protocols
  • Microsoft Office 365

Soft Skills

  • Deep technical ownership of automation systems
  • Clear communication with Manufacturing, Quality, IT, and Engineering teams
  • Proactive risk identification and escalation
  • Disciplined in regulatory documentation and change management
  • Project milestone accountability
  • Consulting mindset — advising on technology use and process improvement