AUTOMATION TECHNICIAN JOB DESCRIPTION

Review automation technician job descriptions from top industries including manufacturing, biotech, and facilities to understand requirements and responsibilities.

Automation Technician Job Description Template

1. About the Role

Keeping a production line running means every voltage reading is right and every PLC output is trusted. An Automation Technician owns the hands-on maintenance, calibration, and corrective repair of electrical and electromechanical systems across industrial production cells - from 24 VDC control circuits up through 480 VAC 3-phase power. Tight. The role sits between the engineering team that designs equipment and the operations floor that runs it, accountable for uptime numbers that shift managers track daily. When ladder logic fails or a servo drive drops out, this is the person who diagnoses it.

2. Position Summary

As the Automation Technician, you maintain, repair, and optimize automated and semi-automated production equipment to sustain output targets and meet safety and compliance standards across manufacturing operations. You work within a controls or maintenance team, taking direction from a Shift Manager or Engineering Manager while interfacing daily with production supervisors, process technicians, and equipment vendors.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Hands-on ownership of PLC programming, motion control systems, and multi-voltage electrical repair builds a technical profile that commands senior controls or automation engineer pathways.

Business Impact: Production uptime on automated lines is a direct revenue variable - the corrective and preventive maintenance this role performs determines whether scheduled output targets are met or missed each shift.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to vision systems, robotics, servo drives, and SCADA environments within a single role accelerates the skill breadth needed to move into Controls Engineer or Automation Engineer positions.

Company Value: Several employers in this group offer non-standard shift structures designed to support work/life flexibility, with cross-regional travel opportunities for technicians supporting multi-site automation platforms.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Perform scheduled and corrective preventive maintenance on industrial production and mechatronics equipment to sustain rated uptime.
  • Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic malfunctions on automated and manual production equipment to restore normal operation.
  • Execute PLC corrective actions including ladder logic edits, I/O board diagnostics, and network communications checks on production-down equipment.
  • Inspect and test electrical systems spanning control circuits and power distribution to verify shielding, grounding, and operational safety.
  • Assemble and wire control panels using specified wire gauges, insulation types, and routing standards to meet engineering drawings.
  • Support installation and validation of new production equipment in collaboration with Controls Engineers and Project Managers.
  • Create and maintain equipment documentation including maintenance records, calibration logs, schematics, and corrective action reports.
  • Conduct operator training on machine adjustments, safety interlocks, and correct equipment operation procedures.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Associate's degree in Electromechanical, Electrical, Electronic, or Engineering Technology, or equivalent work experience.
  • Two or more years of hands-on automation or controls maintenance experience in an industrial manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic diagrams, and mechanical assembly drawings.
  • Working knowledge of programmable logic controllers including program navigation, I/O troubleshooting, and basic ladder logic edits.
  • Proficiency with electrical test instruments including multimeters and oscilloscopes for AC/DC diagnosis and fault isolation.
  • Solid understanding of pneumatic and hydraulic system components including solenoid valves, actuators, and pressure circuits.
  • Ability to work rotating or off-standard shifts, including weekends, to support continuous manufacturing coverage.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • Five or more years of controls technician experience with demonstrated root cause analysis ownership on multi-cell production lines.
  • Familiarity with motion control systems including servo drives, encoders, VFDs, and linear positioning devices.
  • Experience with machine vision integration and industrial robotics within high-volume automated assembly environments.
  • Basic CAD proficiency for reviewing and marking up mechanical drawings or generating redline schematics.

7. Success Metrics & Environment

  • Mean time to repair on production-down equipment, reflecting responsiveness and diagnostic accuracy.
  • Preventive maintenance completion rate against scheduled intervals, measuring adherence to equipment uptime strategy.
  • Equipment availability percentage per production cell, tracking whether assigned assets meet operational readiness targets.
  • Corrective action closure rate within shift, indicating how fully faults are resolved before handoff.
  • Calibration currency rate for assigned instruments, measuring how many remain within certification windows.
  • Typical tools: PLC platforms (commonly Allen Bradley ControlLogix or Siemens S7); HMI software (commonly FactoryTalk View or Wonderware).

8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $52,000 to $78,000 annually depending on experience and shift differential.
  • Bonus: Shift differential pay and occasional project-based bonuses common.
  • Equity: Equity uncommon at this level; profit-sharing offered at some manufacturers.
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution standard.
  • PTO: Two to three weeks annually; increases with tenure at most employers.
  • Common Perks: Tool allowances, safety boot reimbursement, tuition assistance for technical certifications.


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO & Legal

Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request. All offers are contingent on successful completion of a background check. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Automation Technician Job Description Examples

1. Instrumentation & Automation Technician (Pharmaceutical Fill/Finish)

The Instrumentation & Automation Technician owns the maintenance, calibration, and validated-state compliance of all production mechanical equipment within a pharmaceutical Fill/Finish facility, directly sustaining equipment availability and GMP regulatory readiness. Working alongside Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality organizations, and reporting through shift-based operations, this role delivers the documentation accuracy and equipment reliability that keep production lines inspection-ready.


Key Responsibilities

  • Maintain and repair all production mechanical equipment and support all systems within the Fill/Finish facility.
  • Ensure all preventative maintenance and calibration is performed at the appropriate interval and completed by the assigned due date.
  • Ensure all equipment remains in its validated state and operates in accordance with regulations and policies.
  • Maintain assigned equipment areas in a constant state of inspection readiness for cleanliness, safety, and compliance.
  • Identify training deficiencies and provide recommendations and training to technicians and colleagues.
  • Evaluate SOPs, engineering drawings, and controlled documentation for accuracy and submit change requests for deficiencies.
  • Evaluate maintenance and operational practices to eliminate non-productive activities and implement productivity enhancements.
  • Perform troubleshooting, maintenance, and calibration of electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical automated equipment.
  • Coordinate contractors performing repairs, modifications, and installations of various equipment.
  • Work with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Quality organizations on new system installations to maximize equipment availability.
  • Report equipment status, required repairs, process concerns, safety concerns, and improvement recommendations at each shift.


Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Technology required; Bachelor's degree in Engineering preferred.
  • Minimum 12 years of experience (within the last 14 years) operating complex mechanical equipment in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, chemical, food, or related industries.
  • Strong documentation and attention to detail skills to ensure work orders, GMP compliance, and regulatory documents are readable and error-free.
  • Full working knowledge of cGMP as it pertains to job requirements, including all relevant Maintenance SOPs and WIs.
  • Strong writing skills including preparing technical reports, creating new documents, and revising technical documentation and procedures.
  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, ladder logic, and engineering documents; experience operating Delta-V, MES, Allen Bradley, and Siemens systems.
  • Knowledge of PLC programs, ladder logic troubleshooting, and associated components such as CPU backplanes, I/O boards, and communication modules.
  • Experience with calibration and troubleshooting of instrumentation, relay logic, control components, servo drives, encoders, and electrical systems.
  • Knowledge of electrical switchgear and distribution systems in the medium to low voltage range.
  • Basic computer skills including word processors, spreadsheets, databases, email, and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems such as SAP.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple issues with minimal oversight, work with minimal supervision, and support overtime or modified shift schedules as needed; ability to climb ladders and work at elevations up to 30 feet.

2. Automation Technician (AGV Systems Operations)

Reporting to the Automation & Robotics Center of Excellence team in Atlanta, the Automation Technician supports the operation and preventive maintenance of an Automated Guided Vehicle fleet based in Savannah, GA. Partnering with local operational and reliability members as well as the Advanced Automation Team, this role ensures full fleet availability across geographically distributed sites to prevent interruptions to production.


Primary Duties

  • Complete regularly scheduled preventive maintenance on time and per AGV platform requirements.
  • Provide corrective maintenance including root cause analysis.
  • Provide feedback and training to operational and reliability members of the local automation team.
  • Use tools and data to predict when maintenance should be performed.
  • Ensure asset strategies are executed and provide feedback to the AGV platform when changes are needed.
  • Track issues and repairs and utilize the escalation process via MP2 or similar tools.
  • Work collaboratively with internal resources to engage the Advanced Automation Team when needed.
  • Maintain full fleet AGV availability to ensure production is not interrupted.


Skills & Qualifications

  • Two-year degree or higher in Electronic or Mechanical Technology, or 5+ years of electrical/mechanical maintenance or troubleshooting experience.
  • Experience applying basic PLC knowledge and troubleshooting; experience with AGV maintenance and operation preferred.
  • Experience applying basic electrical and mechanical principles including motors, drivers, belts, and bearings.
  • Experience with electrical safe work practices per NFPA 70-E Electrical Safety Standards.
  • Experience applying root cause analysis techniques.
  • Experience in operations, equipment maintenance, or manufacturing engineering across multiple locations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels via reports, email, and verbal presentations; ability to work in a self-directed, multi-tasking environment.
  • Able to travel up to 75% within the US.

3. Automation Technician (Electromechanical Assembly)

Sitting at the intersection of mechanical fabrication and electrical assembly, the Automation Technician reads and follows engineering drawings and schematics to accurately assemble equipment, wire control panels, and verify product conformance. Operating across hydraulic, pneumatic, PLC, and HMI systems, this role ensures assembled products meet specifications and that improvement needs reach senior personnel to maintain product quality.


Duties

  • Read, interpret, and follow schematics, diagrams, engineering drawings, manuals, and specifications to accurately assemble equipment and products.
  • Assemble mechanical parts using knowledge of fabrication and machining operations such as lathe, drill press, and band saws.
  • Wire control panels using appropriate wire gauges, insulation types, and routing best practices.
  • Utilize handheld tools to accomplish assembly operations.
  • Apply knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics, PLCs, electrical circuits, and human-machine interfaces.
  • Apply knowledge of basic electrical components including contactors, transformers, relays, power supplies, and circuit breakers.
  • Perform regular test and inspection procedures to ensure products conform to specifications.
  • Identify needs for improvement and convey them to senior personnel to maintain product quality.


Education & Experience

  • Electromechanical, Electrical, or Electronic Associate's degree required.
  • Optional certifications available from the Electronics Technicians Association.
  • Three to five years of mechanical or electrical assembly experience required.
  • Advanced reading skills for electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.
  • Basic computer navigation and utilization skills.
  • High attention to detail and self-motivation; ability to work accurately and thoroughly with minimal supervision.
  • Advanced English proficiency preferred.

4. Automation Technician (Packaging Equipment Maintenance)

Embedded within a production manufacturing team, the Automation Technician delivers troubleshooting and corrective repair on packaging equipment to minimize downtime and keep output targets on track. Working closely with engineers, supervisors, and Shift Managers, this role builds the equipment reliability and maintenance record accuracy that sustain safe, uninterrupted production operations.


Core Functions

  • Answer trouble calls to maintain maximum uptime for all packaging equipment.
  • Design and test system prototypes based on engineer specifications.
  • Review manuals and follow diagrams to isolate and repair machinery problems.
  • Maintain cue track documentation and participate in cue track rotation.
  • Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic processes of automation and manual equipment to support production needs.
  • Inspect, maintain, and operate electronic, hydraulic, and motorized equipment and systems using control mechanisms or direct physical activity.
  • Update maintenance and inspection records and follow up with the Shift Manager; maintain a safe work environment by conforming to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Develop thorough knowledge of automation equipment; use drawings, specs, and charts to locate machinery and identify spare and repair parts.
  • Determine preventative maintenance schedules, optimize machine capabilities, and identify issues for escalation to the Shift Manager.
  • Perform minor equipment improvements to reduce downtime, improve quality, and reduce operational costs; maintain a record of work performed.


Qualifications & Experience

  • High school diploma or GED, or one to two years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Two years of experience in a manufacturing environment with proven mechanical and/or electrical troubleshooting skills preferred.
  • Ability to use a multimeter, oscilloscope, and other test equipment
  • excellent mechanical skills and ability to read wiring diagrams.
  • Experience with PLC programming or knowledge of Panel View Builder, RS Logics, RS Links, and Colors.
  • Ability to rebuild or replace boards or PLCs safely.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, managers, and coworkers.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work in varied environments including small, high, or wet conditions.
  • Exposure to cold/wet conditions, fumes, airborne particles, and vibrations.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

5. Automation Technician (Production Line Equipment Support)

A key member of the automation team, the Automation Technician leads continuous improvement efforts and delivers equipment support on both manual and automated production lines to maximize tool performance and utilization. Collaborating across operations, engineering, and process review teams, this role enables sustained output quality by building operator capability and resolving equipment malfunctions before they affect production.


Functions

  • Provide equipment support to improve tool performance on the production line.
  • Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, determine corrective actions, and communicate with team members to resolve issues.
  • Specify tools or equipment needed to perform operator tasks on the manual production line.
  • Create, distribute, and deliver training to operators performing manual or automated operations.
  • Participate in process reviews and conduct trials to improve and maximize equipment performance and utilization.
  • Engage in problem solving and brainstorming individually and as part of the team.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts related to operators, equipment, tools, and fixtures.
  • Exhibit safe working and communication practices.


Required Qualifications

  • Associate's degree in an engineering or technology discipline required.
  • Five years of experience with automation and hands-on experience in a high-technology field providing equipment support.
  • Strong mechanical and pneumatic aptitude; some knowledge of automated assembly equipment.
  • Experience with high-volume automated systems and machine vision.
  • Basic knowledge of PLC programs; machining experience with mill and surface grinding.
  • Knowledge of measuring tools including calipers and micrometers.
  • Ability to read schematics and part prints; basic CAD skills with SolidWorks preferred.
  • Experience using Microsoft Office applications.

6. Automation Technician (Commercial Facilities Maintenance)

Sustained safety and operational continuity across commercial properties depends on the Automation Technician, who performs troubleshooting, diagnostics, and hands-on repairs on building systems including HVAC, plumbing, fire and life safety, and packaging machinery. Based within an assigned portfolio of properties and serving tenants, operations leadership, and facilities management, this role protects asset integrity and ensures rapid response to emergencies and service requests.


Accountabilities

  • Assist with troubleshooting and repairs of buildings and installed systems including packaging machinery, plumbing, kitchen equipment, HVAC, roofs, and drains.
  • Clean, lubricate, and service pumps, valves, pneumatic controls, electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic devices; assist with installation and modification of building equipment.
  • Replace and repair building finishes such as ceiling tiles, door hardware, and wallpaper; paint walls, piping, floors, and equipment.
  • Inspect buildings, grounds, and equipment for unsafe or malfunctioning conditions; maintain and operate fire and life safety systems including fire alarm systems and fire pumps.
  • Perform carpentry and snow removal as necessary; respond immediately to emergency situations and customer service requests; comply with all applicable codes, regulations, and Company directives.
  • Use technology including smartphones, tablets, computers, web-based applications, and building automation systems.
  • Complete all required training including annual safety training; adhere to safety program and OSHA standards; comply with uniform dress code and maintain a neat appearance.


Position Requirements

  • High school education and 2 years of experience required.
  • Basic knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, security systems, carpentry, and construction.
  • Understanding of building systems and operations.
  • Ability to use hand and power tools; ability to work evenings and weekends in office and outdoor settings under moderate supervision.
  • Interest and enthusiasm for the role; ability to work with and understand the needs of tenants; follows directions well.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; frequently walks, climbs stairs or ladders, bends, stoops, reaches, and pulls throughout the workday.

7. Automation Technician (Factory Automation & Robotics)

As the Automation Technician, this role installs, maintains, and repairs mechanical and electrical systems, factory automation, and robotics to sustain the operational availability of industrial production equipment. The controls and equipment engineering teams rely on this work to minimize unplanned downtime, manage machine breakdown recoveries, and keep every production cell running across standard and off-standard shifts.


Key Deliverables

  • Perform preventative maintenance on all industrial production and mechatronics equipment.
  • Perform repairs on production-down equipment and operate and repair every cell on a line.
  • Perform corrective maintenance and programming on electrical systems ranging from 24 VDC to 480 VAC 3-phase, PLCs, and networks.
  • Order parts, supplies, and equipment from catalogues, suppliers, or storerooms.
  • Log all work performed and complete other tasks as instructed by management.


Experience & Qualifications

  • Five or more years of experience in a controls technician or engineer role on production manufacturing equipment, or equivalent training or education.
  • Advanced electrical knowledge including volt meter use for AC/DC diagnosis, schematic-based troubleshooting, and understanding of electrical requirements and hazards.
  • Proficient with pneumatics including solenoid valves, actuator and control operations, and schematic reading; proficient with basic hydraulic systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret detailed mechanical assembly drawings and accurately measure and inspect tolerances.
  • Advanced computer skills with ability to use job-specific PC applications and coach other users; verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and implement viable long-term solutions; safety-oriented; ability to work off-shifts as needed.

8. Automation Technician (Pharmaceutical Process Automation)

Automation Technician coordinates advanced technical support across engineering, regulatory, calibration, validation, and process automation functions within a cGMP-regulated biotechnology facility operating on a 24-hour shift schedule. The work directly supports Amgen's compliance with CFRs and FDA inspection readiness while enabling the operations team to sustain sophisticated plant support equipment across non-standard shifts and weekends.


Areas of Ownership

  • Take part in coordinating technical support on engineering, regulatory, compliance, calibration, quality, validation, electrical, and process automation issues.
  • Assist during regulatory agency inspections and provide technical support in response to the FDA and other regulatory agencies.
  • Complete advanced maintenance activities and operate and monitor sophisticated plant support equipment in accordance with CFRs, cGMPs, SOPs, and Amgen policies.
  • Investigate complex issues through the mentorship of experienced staff and assist with maintaining an up-to-date spare parts inventory system.
  • Evaluate current maintenance procedures and assist in changes to optimize the maintenance program; troubleshoot and repair equipment and system failures.
  • Interpret and review utility, process system, plumbing, ductwork, architectural, and HVAC P&IDs.
  • Support operations in non-standard shifts including weekends and holidays as determined by business needs.


Knowledge Skills & Abilities

  • Bachelor's degree; or Associate's degree with 4 years of Technical Engineering experience; or high school diploma/GED with 6 years of Technical Engineering experience.
  • Educational background in Mechatronics, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
  • SCADA/PLC control system experience in pharmaceutical, medical device, or biotechnology industry; understanding of PLC, computer serialization, packaging equipment, and inspection systems.
  • Experience supporting Siemens and Rockwell HMIs, Cognex Vision Systems, Sensor and Systech Serialization, and other automated control systems; experience with automation system hardware and software support including installation.
  • Proficient in MS Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Excellent organizational, project management, problem-solving, and technical writing capability.
  • Strong verbal and written communication, collaboration, influencing, and facilitation skills.

9. Automation Technician (Laser Processing Controls)

The Automation Technician produces intelligent system control solutions for industrial laser processing equipment and material handling automation, ensuring process control functionality and quality before systems ship to customers. Working under the direction of the Engineering Manager and coordinating with Controls Engineers and Project Managers, this role advances manufacturing innovation by integrating motion control systems, PLCs, and vision components into fully tested, customer-ready laser platforms.


Job Functions

  • Install, configure, and troubleshoot system controls for high-performance laser processing equipment.
  • Integrate system control software with motion control systems and devices including PLCs.
  • Perform controls software testing and industrial electrical component integration.
  • Coordinate with Controls Engineers and Project Managers to ensure systems are fully operational and tested prior to shipping.
  • Support system installation and field service teams as needed.


Technical Qualifications

  • Two-year technical degree in Electrical Technology or related field required.
  • Knowledge of PLCs and software development; knowledge of electrical/electronic components and diagnostic equipment.
  • Experience programming vision systems; experience in motion controls including XY tables, encoders, robotics, linear motors, servo motors, and VFDs.
  • Ability to read schematic diagrams and drawings; strong mathematical background.
  • Excellent verbal and technical writing skills.
  • Ability to work extensively at a computer workstation in a manufacturing environment; ability to travel as required (10%).

10. Automation Technician (SCADA & Controls Engineering)

Embedded within a process technology and maintenance engineering team, the Automation Technician develops and maintains SCADA system best practices while providing PLC, drive, and controls troubleshooting support across the manufacturing site to sustain equipment reliability. Working closely with maintenance and engineering teams on electrical repairs, schematic creation, and safety initiatives, this role strengthens operational continuity by resolving complex electrical malfunctions and coaching employees on correct machine operation.


Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Provide PLC, drive, and controls troubleshooting support to the manufacturing site.
  • Develop and maintain drive, controls, and SCADA system best practices through collaboration with process technology teams.
  • Install, maintain, and repair equipment for generating, distributing, and utilizing electrical energy; test circuits and replace or install power, light, electronic, and control circuits.
  • Troubleshoot electrical malfunctions, inspect circuits and wiring for shielding and grounding, and test electrical equipment for safety and efficiency.
  • Repair complex electrical equipment including motors, switches, switchboards, automated machines, controls, panels, relays, circuit breakers, communication systems, and alarms.
  • Work from schematics, drawings, and layouts to locate and diagnose trouble in electrical systems or equipment; create and update electrical schematics.
  • Interact with maintenance and engineering teams to ensure equipment reliability and support technology upgrade projects.
  • Identify safety issues, support safety initiatives, and recommend and implement effective solutions.
  • Conduct training of employees for proper machine adjustments and operations.


Background & Experience

  • High school diploma required; Associate's degree in a technical, controls, automation, or engineering discipline preferred.
  • Three or more years of experience in controls or electrical engineering in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with AC and DC drive systems; ability to understand and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic and make system edits; hands-on ability to work through symptoms to root cause.
  • Experience with Allen Bradley ControlLogix and PLC5; Parker Eurotherm, AB Powerflex, and Siemens S120 drives; Kuka Robotics experience a plus.
  • Experience with HMI software including Wonderware, FactoryTalk View Studio, and RSView 32; data collection systems including Wonderware Historian; knowledge of Safety PLC and associated hardware; AutoCAD experience a plus.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills across all organizational levels; ability to work with minimal supervision.

11. Automation Technician (Production Equipment Validation)

Reporting to operations leadership, the Automation Technician maintains, validates, and calibrates automated, semi-automated, and test equipment to keep all production assets performing within GMP, ISO, and corporate safety standards. Partnering with engineers on new equipment installation and validation protocols, this role refines maintenance procedures and sustains the certification records that underpin regulatory compliance and operational continuity.


Scope of Work

  • Perform validations and calibrations on equipment to ensure effectiveness.
  • Determine corrective actions based on operational performance and troubleshooting.
  • Assist engineers with installation, testing, and validation of new production equipment.
  • Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of manual, semi-automated, and automated production equipment involving electrical, electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
  • Recognize and perform machine adjustments to systems, operational interlocks, sensors, energy isolation systems, and ancillary inputs per Company safety procedures.
  • Maintain certifications for calibrated equipment, maintenance documentation, machine history, and all appropriate production equipment documentation.
  • Follow all applicable Corporate, GMP, ISO, and safety guidelines; perform general facility maintenance as required.


Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required; Associate's degree in Applied Sciences preferred.
  • Professional certification in Applied Sciences preferred.
  • Three to five years of relevant experience in automatic packaging equipment, instrumentation, electrical, mechanical, and electronics; military training may be helpful.
  • One to two years of experience in PLC programming.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints, equipment manuals, and industrial standards; independent troubleshooting and evaluation of equipment failures required.
  • Reading, writing, and basic math skills required; must be able to lift up to 100 lbs.

12. Automation Technician (Robotics & Automation Build)

Sitting at the intersection of automation build and production floor support, the Automation Technician manages new equipment construction, program creation for robot toolpaths and laser systems, and daily PM activity to keep automated lines ready for production. The work directly supports leads, supervisors, material handlers, and process technicians across shifts who depend on timely equipment status feedback and rapid response to operational needs.


What You'll Do

  • Work with the automation team to build new equipment and troubleshoot, maintain, repair, and rebuild automated equipment.
  • Provide accurate feedback to the automation team and tech support on equipment status.
  • Create new programs for automation equipment including robot toolpaths, laser programs, and lens cutting machine programs.
  • Set up tools and equipment to be ready for production and communicate automation and machine setup status to leads, supervisors, and process technicians across shifts.
  • Perform and record daily PM activity and respond quickly to the needs of supervisors, leads, material handlers, and machine operators.


Professional Experience

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent required.
  • One or more years of experience in a manufacturing environment; experience with automation building, setup, and robotics simulators preferred.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with proficiency in hand tools including wrenches, hole tapping, and manual drilling.
  • Knowledge of machines, tools, sensors, and pneumatic circuits including their uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Basic knowledge of robotics, HMI, and PLC; knowledge of CAD software.
  • Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, and quality control.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office including Excel; ability to read, understand, and communicate in English to adhere to documented procedures and specifications.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.