An Automation Engineer sets up the automation of a manufacturing process. These processes govern the production and delivery of products. The automation engineer must understand the process and its needs to select the appropriate instruments to monitor and control all the necessary variables.
Specific tasks can include:
- Working with process control engineers to develop an automation system to control the process.
- Choosing and programming a controller and establishing communication between the sensors (inputs), actuators (outputs), and controller.
- Simulating, installing, testing, and managing electrical or mechanical automation.
- Monitoring the automation processes on an ongoing basis.
- Ability to travel up to 75% of the time to install and support equipment at SitecGroup customer sites.
- Skilled with computer software Allen-Bradley PLC Platform, Siemens B&R, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Excellent computer skills – particularly in programming and software development. Many aspects of the role of an Automation Engineer require the use of a computer (Siemens Step7&Tia Portal / B&R)
- Equipment troubleshooting skills – as you will often need to debug or troubleshoot an existing system
- Communication skills – will need to be able to explain novel and complex ideas to stakeholders of all levels and within multidisciplinary teams. Written communication skills will also be needed for record keeping and documentation, a key part of these regulated industries
- Problem-solving and creative thinking – will be required to troubleshoot problems as they arise and find effective solutions
- Organizational skills – to map out projects, prioritize workload and keep accurate documentation
- Flexibility & Adaptability – has to be able to keep up with latest techniques and technologies as they develop
The specific skills and knowledge needed will vary widely between roles depending on the manufacturing processes involved and the product being produced. General tasks can include:
- Identification of new opportunities for automation within the manufacturing process
- Management of a project team
- Designing new automation equipment or processes
- Simulating and testing these processes or equipment to ensure they function as desired
- Writing reports for senior colleagues outlining new concepts, testing outcomes, and ongoing efficiency
- Programming new automated components to the manufacturing process
- Developing and maintaining clear and accurate documentation of automation equipment or processes
- Staff training where necessary – typically after implementing new processes or equipment, or making changes to existing ones
- Troubleshooting automated processes or equipment when errors occur
A Bachelor’s Degree in automation, process control, electrical engineering or mechanical engineering is the typical entry route into Automation Engineering roles.
Useful to have also Diving license B category and being able to travel autonomously
A Automation Engineer will likely receive on-the-job training for entry-level positions when first starting out.
SALARY RANGE of EU35,000 – 60,000 per year (travels around the world )
If you’re an Automation Engineer who works or wants to extend your role into Food and Beverage industry, SitecGroup can provide training program and go rapidly from beginner to an advanced level expert.
A licensing or certification can enhance your prospects for a career in automation engineering but they are not an absolute requirement.
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