How to Get a Job as an Automation Technician

Automation Technicians install, maintain, and repair automated systems used in manufacturing, energy, and other industries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for industrial maintenance and automation technicians to grow 14% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than average, with around 56,000 new job openings annually (bls.gov). Here’s how you can start a career in this high-demand field.

Entry-Level Requirements for Automation Technicians

1. Education: A postsecondary certificate or associate degree in industrial automation, electronics, or mechatronics is typically required.

2. Certifications: Credentials such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or PLC programming certifications are valuable.

3. Experience: Internships, apprenticeships, or on-the-job training programs provide essential practical skills.

Expected Salary for Automation Technicians

• Entry-Level: $45,000–$60,000 annually.

• Mid-Level: $60,000–$75,000 annually.

• Senior-Level: $75,000–$95,000+ annually.

Median pay for industrial automation technicians is approximately $60,570 per BLS data (bls.gov).

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

• PLC programming and troubleshooting

• Mechanical and electrical repair skills

• Knowledge of robotics and automation systems

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

• Preventive maintenance expertise

Is Automation Technology Suitable for Introverts or Extroverts?

This career is typically better suited for introverts, as much of the work involves technical troubleshooting, equipment setup, and maintenance tasks that require focus and precision.

Top 5 Degree or Training Programs with Best ROI for Automation Technicians

1. Fox Valley Technical College – Automation Technology Program

2. Michigan Technological University – Mechatronics Program

3. Purdue University – Industrial Automation and Robotics

4. Texas State Technical College – Automation and Controls Technology

5. Georgia Northwestern Technical College – Industrial Automation Technology

Can You Become an Automation Technician Without a Degree?

Yes, some automation technicians enter the field through vocational training, apprenticeships, or military technical experience, though formal education and certifications improve job prospects.

Five Jobs Similar to Automation Technician

1. Robotics Technician

2. Electrical Engineering Technician

3. Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

4. Mechatronics Technician

5. PLC Programmer

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies Specializing in Automation Roles

1. Randstad Engineering

2. Aerotek

3. Kelly Engineering Resources

4. ManpowerGroup

5. Adecco

6. Michael Page Engineering

7. Lucas Group

8. Robert Half Technology

9. Hays Engineering

10. Spencer Ogden

Top Ten Employers Hiring Automation Technicians

1. Siemens

2. Rockwell Automation

3. ABB

4. Bosch Rexroth

5. Emerson Electric

6. Honeywell

7. Schneider Electric

8. General Electric (GE)

9. Fanuc

10. Yaskawa Electric

Top Ten Startups or Growing Companies Hiring Automation Technicians

1. Bright Machines

2. Path Robotics

3. Vention

4. Realtime Robotics

5. RightHand Robotics

6. Locus Robotics

7. Clearpath Robotics

8. Mujin

9. inVia Robotics

10. Covariant

Automation technology offers a stable and rewarding career path for those with strong technical and problem-solving skills. With specialized training, certifications, and hands-on experience, you can excel in this growing field. Learn about other high-demand jobs over the next decade here.