How Much Does an Automation Engineer Make?
If you’re searching for automation engineering jobs, one of your first questions is probably about salary. The good news is that a career as an automation engineer offers a strong pay range, great job stability, and exciting opportunities across several high-demand industries, including manufacturing, construction, engineering, and warehouse operations.
What’s the Average Automation Engineer Salary?
The average automation engineer salary in the U.S. typically falls between $75,000 and $110,000 annually. However, the actual pay range can vary based on a number of factors, including experience, industry, and location. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Entry-level automation engineers: $65,000 to $80,000
- Mid-level professionals (2–5 years): $85,000 to $100,000
- Senior level: $110,000 to $130,000+
Specialized industries, such as pharmaceuticals and aerospace, tend to offer salaries at the higher end of the spectrum due to the complexity of automation systems and the technical skills required.
What Affects the Pay Range?
Several key factors can influence how much an automation engineer makes. Here are some of the most impactful:
- Location: Engineers working in tech-heavy or industrial cities like San Jose, Detroit, or Houston tend to earn higher salaries.
- Industry: Fields like aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and automotive manufacturing typically pay more due to advanced technology requirements.
- Experience level: Naturally, more experience usually leads to higher pay.
- Certifications and skills: Holding certifications in PLC programming, robotics, or industrial safety can boost your salary.
- Company size and scope: Larger companies or those with global operations may offer better compensation packages.
Industry Comparison
Here’s how the automation engineer salary compares across different industries:
- Manufacturing: ~$85,000
- Automotive: ~$90,000
- Pharmaceuticals: ~$95,000
- Aerospace: $100,000+
- Warehouse & Distribution: ~$80,000
While these numbers represent averages, your individual pay range may be higher or lower depending on the specifics of your role.
How to Maximize Your Salary Potential
If you’re aiming for the higher end of the pay range, here are some steps you can take to increase your value as an automation engineer:
- Gain advanced certifications (e.g., in PLCs, HMI/SCADA systems, robotics)
- Learn emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, or IoT
- Take on leadership or project management roles
- Stay current with trends and tools used in your specific industry
- Consider relocating to high-paying regions or working in specialized sectors
These actions not only enhance your skills but also make you more marketable to top employers looking for automation talent.
Why Choose Automation Engineering?
Beyond the competitive salary, a career in this role offers:
- Strong job security in growing industries
- Opportunities for remote or hybrid roles
- Diverse career paths — from manufacturing to software
- The chance to innovate and improve operational efficiency
As more companies continue investing in automation to increase productivity, reduce costs, and stay competitive, skilled engineers will remain in high demand.
Let NCW Help You Find the Right Opportunity
At NCW, we connect talented professionals with opportunities in automation, engineering, manufacturing, construction, and more — all across the country. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take your career to the next level, we can help you find an engineering job that matches your goals and desired pay range.
Contact NCW today to speak with one of our expert recruiters and take the next step toward your ideal automation engineer salary!