Automation Jobs Overview
Never mind the robots. Automation isn’t only about them. In fact, many factories and companies are foreseeing automated systems as a means to ultimately invigorate workers—for example, by improving their safety, as well as their productivity and quality of output. Of course, engineers, technicians, and managers are needed to implement, maintain, and fix those processes. This is the realm of automation jobs, which also applies to IT infrastructures, where engineers work on automated solutions for various software applications.
As a near-sci-fi future becomes closer to our reality, technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence will continue to upgrade, which will make automation all the more feasible. This is inevitable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), manufacturing will keep moving toward automation, but that still means jobs for the proper engineers and technicians. Plus, the BLS predicts stable prospects for both mechanical engineers and electrical/electronics engineers (sub-fields that can readily segue into automation positions) over the next decade.
And if you want to be on the IT side, the job outlook is especially noteworthy for computer scientists, with the BLS projecting a 15% employment growth rate (much faster than the average for all other occupations), which translates to roughly 3,000 openings each year, through 2029. Overall, automation jobs span multiple markets—from the automotive industry and food-processing plants to high-tech firms and cybersecurity companies.
You can expand your options by searching for other engineering jobs. Or you may want to home in on these positions:
Automation Job Education and Skills
Educational requirements will vary depending on the type of automation jobs you’re aiming for. For instance, automation technicians usually work on-site supporting engineers to set up equipment, diagnose issues, and perform troubleshooting and repairs. You only need a high school diploma or GED for this role, although you can opt for an associate’s degree (as some employers may favor that).
You can also gain an advantage by becoming a Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or obtaining other certifications, including ones from the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC), the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), and the Electronics Technicians Association (ETA International).
The following skills should help you succeed as a technician:
- facility with math and computers
- knowledge of process controls and electronics
- ease with tools and instruments related to robotics, motorizing, wiring, and assembly line machines
However, if you want to become an engineer, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Although a few programs offer such majors as automation and control engineering technology (ACET), or simply automation engineering technology, related concentrations like mechanical engineering and electrical engineering are much more widely available. Just make sure you apply to programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Another possibility is to get a bachelor’s degree in computer science to prime yourself for digital readiness. But regardless of the route you choose, it may be wise for you to eventually join the International Society of Automation (ISA), the professional association dedicated to this field.
Update Your Automation Job Resume
Automation jobs can provide you with a secure future, as digital transformations bring forth changes in several industries. Whether your background is in engineering or software/computer science (or if you have pertinent technical training), your resume should reflect your awareness of these evolutions and your willingness to adapt to market dynamics. The trick is to be prescient—think about what may come a few years from now. Review Monster’s sample resume for mechanical engineers for inspiration.
And don’t forget cover letters in your applications, which offer you an opportunity to spotlight your motivation for working in the automation field. Get your writing-flow going with this sample for a mechanical engineer cover letter.
Interviewing for an Automation Job
You’ll need to do interviews with recruiters and hiring managers for any automation jobs. We recommend that you set aside some time to prepare by reading over Monster’s extensive collection of professional advice on job interviews. Also, rehearse beforehand with these sample questions:
- How do you monitor automated processes and detect problems?
- What are the different types of automation testing?
- Can you share an experience when you had to learn and apply a new technology on the job?
How Much Do Automation Jobs Pay?
If you’re going for engineering, this career path can be very lucrative. The yearly median pay for an automation engineer in the U.S. is $99,530, and it can reach $121,167 at the highest end. Meanwhile, an automation technician can make about $51,358 annually. Make use of Monster’s Salary Tools to get pay details for positions in your specific location.
Want to Learn More About a Company You’re Interested In?
Let’s make sure you find the right fit. At Monster, we know that a company’s culture is as important as the kind of jobs you’re applying to. We have lots of company profiles, which include:
- rundowns on major factories and firms throughout the country
- information on companies that hire automation engineers and technicians
- updated job postings from the automation field
Automate Your Career With Monster’s Help
Don’t let the robots take over. Your engineering prowess and technical expertise are still much in need, so build a profile on Monster to advance your career with coveted automation jobs. Not only will we swiftly connect you with responsive recruiters, we’ll also send you relevant career advice, industry insight, and personalized alerts about openings in your area.