5 Automation Technician Job Description Templates and Examples

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Junior Automation Technician to join our engineering team and support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems. This role involves hands-on technical work with industrial automation technologies, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems, to ensure optimal performance and reliability of production environments. You will collaborate closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, perform system testing, and document processes while adhering to safety and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the installation, configuration, and commissioning of automation systems and components
• Perform routine testing, calibration, and troubleshooting of PLCs, HMIs, and sensor networks
• Support the development and documentation of system schematics, wiring diagrams, and control logic
• Collaborate with senior engineers to identify and resolve technical issues in production environments
• Follow standardized safety protocols and maintain compliance with OSHA and ISO 9001 requirements
• Participate in preventive maintenance programs for industrial automation equipment

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Technology, or related field
• 0-2 years of experience in industrial automation or technical support roles
• Fundamental understanding of electrical systems, control circuits, and automation protocols
• Experience with basic PLC programming (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens) and HMI interfaces
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and system specifications
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in high-pressure environments

Preferred:

• Certification in PLC or automation technologies (e.g., CFAA, CCSP)
• Basic scripting skills (Python, C++) for automation tasks
• Familiarity with Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or Profibus communication protocols
• Experience with CAD software for system design and modeling
• Knowledge of safety automation standards (e.g., ISO 13849, IEC 62061)

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• PLC programming (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi)
• HMI/SCADA systems (Ignition, Wonderware)
• Industrial sensors and actuators (proximity sensors, servo motors)
• Control system simulation tools (Factory IO, TIA Portal)
• Motor drives and variable frequency drives (VFDs)
• Version control for automation code (Git, SVN)

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Collaborative mindset with ability to work in cross-functional teams
• Effective written and verbal communication for technical documentation
• Adaptability to rapidly evolving automation technologies
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Strong organizational skills for managing multiple technical projects

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Tuition reimbursement for technical certifications
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Performance-based bonuses and career advancement opportunities
• Access to industry conferences and training programs

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Location

This is an office-assigned role requiring on-site presence at our [$COMPANY_LOCATION] facility.

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is seeking an experienced Automation Technician to design, implement, and maintain industrial automation systems. This role is critical to ensuring the reliability, scalability, and efficiency of our automated production lines, robotics, and control systems. You will collaborate with engineers, technicians, and operations teams to optimize manufacturing processes while adhering to safety, quality, and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and commission PLC-based control systems, HMIs, and industrial robotics
• Program and maintain automation systems using ladder logic, function block diagrams, and structured text (IEC 61131-3 standards)
• Diagnose and resolve complex automation issues in real-time using diagnostic tools and root cause analysis
• Integrate sensors, actuators, and third-party equipment into existing automation architectures
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and document system specifications, wiring diagrams, and SOPs
• Perform preventive maintenance on automation hardware, including motor drives, servo systems, and pneumatic controls
• Validate system performance through testing, calibration, and data collection using SCADA and MES platforms

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation systems (PLC, HMI, robotics)
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Technology, or related field
• Certifications in PLC programming (Allen Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent) and safety protocols (ISO 13849, IEC 61508)
• Proficiency in electrical troubleshooting of 24V-480V control circuits and motor control systems
• Experience with Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and industrial communication protocols

Preferred:

• Experience with robotics integration (FANUC, ABB, or Yaskawa) including teach pendant programming
• Knowledge of MES/SCADA systems (Ignition, Citect, or equivalent)
• Experience with motion control systems (servo drives, stepper motors) and VFDs
• Familiarity with MES/SCADA systems and data acquisition software (e.g., SQL, Python)

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• PLC programming (Allen Bradley ControlLogix, Siemens S7-1500)
• HMI/SCADA development (FactoryTalk View, WinCC)
• Robotics integration and maintenance (FANUC, ABB)
• Industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols (Profinet, EtherNet/IP)
• Control system design using AutoCAD Electrical or Visio

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Problem-solving mindset with ability to debug complex system failures under time constraints
• Strong documentation skills and attention to detail in technical workflows
• Collaborative approach to cross-functional projects with engineers and operators
• Adaptability to shifting priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Commitment to safety-first practices and compliance with OSHA standards

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits include:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Annual professional development budget
• Access to automation certifications and training programs
• Employee wellness stipend

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Location

[$COMPANY_LOCATION]

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Automation Technician to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of industrial automation systems for [$COMPANY_NAME]. This role requires a deep understanding of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, and industrial IoT platforms to engineer high-performance automation solutions that increase production efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and deploy complex automation systems using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Mitsubishi PLCs in high-throughput manufacturing environments
• Develop and implement SCADA/HMI interfaces for real-time monitoring and control of production processes
• Optimize existing automation workflows using machine learning algorithms and predictive analytics to enhance system reliability
• Lead troubleshooting of critical production issues across distributed automation networks involving EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and PROFINET protocols
• Mentor junior engineers on best practices for industrial automation architecture and cybersecurity compliance
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate robotics, vision systems, and sensor networks into automated production lines

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience with PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text) in industrial manufacturing environments
• Advanced proficiency in SCADA/HMI development using Wonderware, Ignition, or Citect
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (OPC UA, EtherCAT, BACnet)
• 3+ years of experience with machine vision systems (Cognex, VisionPro) and robotics integration (Fanuc, ABB)
• Strong understanding of electrical systems design (24V DC, 480V 3-phase) and safety standards (IEC 61508, ISO 13849)

Preferred:

• Experience with Industry 4.0 technologies (Digital Twin, predictive maintenance, M2M communication)
• Certifications in Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or Control System Engineer (CSE)
• Experience with automation cybersecurity frameworks (NIST SP 800-82, IEC 62443)
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• PLC programming (Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal)
• SCADA/HMI development (Ignition, CitectSCADA)
• Industrial IoT platforms (PAC Display, FactoryTalk View)
• Version control systems (Git, SVN) for automation code repositories
• CI/CD pipelines for automation system deployment

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Proven ability to lead automation projects from concept to deployment
• Excellent analytical skills for root cause analysis of production system failures
• Strong cross-functional collaboration capabilities with R&D, QA, and operations teams
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
• Adaptability to rapidly evolving automation technologies and standards

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage with $0 deductible
• 401(k) with 6% company match
• 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement for automation certifications
• Annual equipment allowance for field tools and PPE
• 15 days of paid time off (PTO) plus 10 paid holidays

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability status, or any other protected characteristic.

Location

[$COMPANY_LOCATION] facility

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Lead Automation Technician to architect and oversee the deployment of industrial automation systems across [$COMPANY_NAME]’s production facilities. This role requires strategic leadership in designing, commissioning, and optimizing automation solutions while managing a team of technicians. The ideal candidate will bridge technical expertise with cross-functional collaboration to drive operational efficiency and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain complex automation systems using PLCs (Allen Bradley, Siemens), SCADA (Wonderware, CitectSCADA), and HMI platforms
• Lead a team of 5-10 automation technicians, providing technical direction, performance evaluations, and professional development opportunities
• Execute full lifecycle project management for automation upgrades, including requirements analysis, system design, and post-deployment validation
• Coordinate with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and production teams to align automation solutions with facility objectives
• Debug and resolve critical production line issues via root cause analysis using tools like Allen Bradley RSLogix and Siemens TIA Portal
• Develop and enforce standard operating procedures for system maintenance, safety protocols, and quality assurance

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation systems, with 3+ years in a team leadership role
• Associates or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field
• Expertise in PLC programming (Allen Bradley ControlLogix, Siemens S7-1200) and HMI design (Ignition, WinCC)
• Proficiency in electrical schematics, ladder logic, and motion control systems
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, EtherNet/IP, Profinet)

Preferred:

• Certifications in PLC (CAP, CCSP) or SCADA (Cisco Industrial Networking) preferred
• Experience with robotics integration (ABB, Fanuc, KUKA)
• Knowledge of MES systems (SAP, Wonderware MES) and data analytics platforms
• Track record of reducing machine downtime by 20%+ through preventive maintenance strategies

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• PLC Programming: Allen Bradley (ControlLogix, CompactLogix), Siemens (S7-1200, S7-1500)
• SCADA/HMI: Wonderware, CitectSCADA, Ignition
• Industrial Networking: Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP, Profinet, EtherCAT
• Robotics: ABB, Fanuc, KUKA - Programming, integration, and maintenance
• Diagnostic Tools: Fluke 434 II, Megger MCT3, OMRON PLC debuggers

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Demonstrated leadership in guiding technical teams through complex automation projects
• Strong analytical skills for troubleshooting multi-disciplinary system failures
• Excellent communication for interfacing with non-technical stakeholders and executive leadership
• Problem-solving mindset with initiative to identify automation opportunities
• Adaptability to work across multiple production lines with shifting priorities

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage with 100% employer-paid premiums
• 401(k) with 6% company match
• Paid time off (20 days/year) + 10 paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement program (up to $5,000/year)
• Annual safety and technical training budget ($3,500)
• Employee stock purchase plan (ESPP)

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We celebrate diversity in all forms and are dedicated to creating an environment where every individual can thrive. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Location

Candidates must be based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and work from the primary manufacturing facility. Remote work may be permitted for up to 20% of scheduled hours with prior approval.

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Engineer to design, implement, and optimize automated testing solutions that ensure the reliability and performance of our mission-critical applications. As a key member of our DevOps and QA teams, you will drive the adoption of automation frameworks, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure-as-code practices to accelerate deployment velocity while maintaining enterprise-grade quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement end-to-end automation frameworks using Python, Java, or Go, integrating with Jenkins, GitLab CI, or Azure DevOps
• Design and execute automated test suites for functional, regression, performance, and security testing across microservices and APIs
• Collaborate with infrastructure teams to automate provisioning, configuration management, and deployment using Terraform, Ansible, or CloudFormation
• Lead the integration of automated testing into CI/CD pipelines, ensuring seamless orchestration with tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and Helm
• Develop custom scripts and utilities for test data generation, environment setup, and monitoring of automated test execution
• Mentor junior engineers on best practices for test automation, code quality, and DevOps workflows
• Conduct root cause analysis of test failures and production incidents, implementing preventive measures to improve system reliability

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in software automation engineering
• Demonstrated proficiency in at least two automation frameworks (Selenium, Cypress, Postman, etc.)
• Extensive experience with CI/CD toolchains and pipeline automation
• Deep understanding of API testing, contract testing, and service virtualization techniques
• Experience with infrastructure-as-code (Terraform, CloudFormation) and container orchestration
• Strong problem-solving skills with ability to debug complex distributed systems

Preferred:

• Experience with performance testing tools (JMeter, Gatling) and load generation strategies
• Familiarity with monitoring and alerting systems (Prometheus, Grafana, Datadog)
• Experience with chaos engineering principles and tools (Chaos Monkey, Gremlin)
• Knowledge of security testing frameworks and compliance standards (OWASP, SOC2)
• Experience with mainframe systems or legacy application modernization

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

• Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript, Bash
• Automation Tools: Selenium WebDriver, Cypress, TestNG, JUnit
• CI/CD Platforms: Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, GitHub Actions
• Containerization: Docker, Kubernetes, Helm, Rancher
• Infrastructure-as-Code: Terraform, Ansible, CloudFormation
• API Testing: Postman, Swagger, REST Assured
• Monitoring & Observability: Prometheus, Grafana, ELK Stack

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional automation initiatives and drive cultural change
• Excellent communication skills for technical stakeholder alignment and documentation
• Strong analytical mindset with data-driven approach to test strategy development
• Collaborative team player with experience in agile and DevOps environments
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation in QA processes
• Emphasis on quality engineering principles over traditional QA practices

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package including:

• Health, dental, and vision coverage with HSA options
• 401(k) with company match up to 6%
• Unlimited paid time off with annual wellness leave
• Professional development budget ($8,000/year)
• Annual stock options grant
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
• Onsite perks including fitness reimbursement and free meals

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This is a hybrid position. A successful candidate will be expected to work from the [$COMPANY_LOCATION] office at least 3 days per week.