Automation Engineer
What is an automation engineer?
An automation engineer is someone who develops and implements automated processes and systems to improve efficiency and productivity in various industries.
What does an automation engineer do?
Usually, an automation engineer does the following:
- Designs and develops automated solutions to replace manual processes
- Collaborates with teams to identify areas for automation and improves existing automated systems
- Tests and maintains automation systems to ensure optimal performance
- Troubleshoots and resolves technical issues related to automation
- Provides training and support to users of automated systems
What does the day-to-day life of an automation engineer look like?
An automation engineer typically works between 9am and 5pm, although the actual hours may vary depending on the company and project requirements.
Your day may involve:
- Collaborating with colleagues to identify automation opportunities
- Designing and developing automated processes using programming languages and automation tools
- Testing and debugging automated systems
- Communicating updates and progress to project stakeholders
- Troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise in automation systems
Where does an automation engineer work?
Automation engineers can work in various settings, including:
- Large manufacturing companies: These companies often have their own automation teams to improve production efficiency.
- Technology companies: Companies focused on software development or robotics may employ automation engineers to improve internal processes.
- Automation consulting firms: These firms provide services to multiple organizations, helping them implement automated solutions.
- Self-employment: As an automation engineer, you have the option to work independently and offer your services to clients in need of automation solutions.
What tools/software/hardware does an automation engineer use?
An automation engineer uses a range of tools, including:
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): Hardware devices used to control and monitor automated processes.
- Software platforms: Automation engineers work with software platforms such as Robotic Process Automation (RPA) tools, industrial automation software (e.g. Siemens, Allen-Bradley), and script development environments.
- Programming languages: Common programming languages used in automation engineering include Python, C#, and Java.
- Testing tools: Automation engineers use tools like Selenium and Appium for testing and evaluating automated systems.
What do I need to become an automation engineer?
There are several paths one can take to become an automation engineer, including:
- Bachelor's degree: Pursuing a degree in engineering or a related field such as electrical or mechanical engineering can provide a solid foundation for a career in automation.
- Specialized courses and certifications: Taking specific courses or obtaining certifications in automation technologies and programming languages can help develop the necessary skills.
- Hands-on experience: Gaining practical experience through internships, personal projects, or entry-level positions in automation-related roles can also be valuable.
What career paths are available?
There are various career paths available to automation engineers, including:
- Senior Automation Engineer: As you gain experience and expertise, you can progress to a senior automation engineer role, where you lead and manage automation projects.
- Automation Consultant: Working as a consultant allows you to provide expert advice and support to multiple organizations on their automation initiatives.
- Project Manager: With additional skills in project management, you can move into a managerial role, overseeing automation projects and teams.
What jobs are similar to an automation engineer?
- Software Engineer/Developer: Similar to a web developer, a software engineer develops and implements software solutions using programming languages.
- DevOps Engineer: DevOps engineers focus on integrating software development and IT operations, ensuring smooth and efficient processes.
- Robotics Engineer: Robotics engineers design and develop robotic systems for various applications.
- Industrial Engineer: Industrial engineers analyze and optimize complex systems, including manufacturing processes, to improve efficiency.
What made you want to become an automation engineer?
How did you get your first automation engineer job?
What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being an automation engineer?
Are you an automation engineer? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to automation engineering. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.