Automation Engineer
On this page
- What's it like to be an Automation Engineer?
- How to become an Automation Engineer
- Latest Automation Engineer jobs
- Top skills and experience for Automation Engineers
What's it like to be an Automation Engineer?
An Automation Engineer optimises a company’s production processes by automating them and detecting and correcting inaccuracies, defects and errors in computing and manufacturing systems. Normally, Automation Engineers are tasked to manage a team that includes IT Technicians and Software Developers.
Tasks and duties
- Developing and modifying automation technologies and systems.
- Working closely with other engineering teams to address technological errors.
- Communicating new automation requirements with management.
- Simulating newly built automated systems and monitoring their progress.
- Conducting training sessions for employees if needed.
How to become an Automation Engineer
Tertiary education is required to work as an Automation Engineer.
- 1.
Earn a bachelor degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, information technology, or other similar field. Some companies may also prefer a masters degree in a related field.
- 2.
Enrol in programmes that provide hands-on training in robotics, software development, artificial neural networks (ANN), statistics, and management.
- 3.
Work in a related area, such as test automation development, to gain experience. Since an Automation Engineer is a senior position, employers generally prefer to hire individuals with several years of experience in the industry.
- 4.
Gain certification to stand out to potential employers. The International Society of Automation (ISA) certifies individuals with a Certified Automation Professional (CAP) designation. This is an objective assessment and endorsement of an automation professional’s skills.