Automation engineers power the modern technological landscape, bringing enhanced efficiency to every field imaginable. This is an exciting yet misunderstood role, and those most influenced by automation engineering often have no idea what this field involves or why it is so impactful.
If you value innovation and want to make a difference in your field of choice, you could have a bright future in automation engineering. First, however, you need to know what it means to work as an automation engineer and whether you are a solid candidate for this role.
To help you navigate these concerns, we will provide a thorough overview of this exciting field while answering: what is automation engineering and what does an automation engineer do?
What Is Automation Engineering?
It is impossible to understand the role of the modern automation engineer without also understanding: what is automation engineering technology?
Automation engineering is a multidisciplinary field that promotes streamlined operations by limiting the need for human intervention. This centers around the purpose-driven design and testing of automated models, bringing software engineering concepts to industrial applications.
This practice draws on control theory, involving strategic models that reveal relationships between system inputs and outputs. Also important are programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which automate industrial processes by monitoring inputs and outputs and promoting simple yet adaptable machinery control.
No matter the sector or application, the core purpose of automation engineers remains consistent. This means streamlining repetitive processes by adjusting variables that influence system-specific inputs and outputs.
The Evolution of Automation Engineering
The origins of automation engineering are typically tied to the Industrial Revolution, although some partially automated solutions arrived earlier by way of mechanical systems — windmills and watermills, for example.
The Industrial Revolution marked a huge economic shift, in which advancing technologies made it possible for products to be made by machines rather than by hand. Steam engines played a huge role at the outset, but electricity accelerated this revolution, enabling a new level of automation.
This is also when the theoretical basis for automation engineering emerged. For example, James Clerk Maxwell outlined the precursor to control theory, analyzing devices known as “governor systems” that could regulate engine speed.
By the 1920s, many industries had embraced electrification, which spurred huge improvements in output for top manufacturing plants. Early PLCs were developed during the late 1960s, with Dick Morley often referred to as the father of the PLC. Soon after, the familiar Allen-Bradley popularized the term PLC and brought it into the mainstream.
More recently, advancements in robotics and sensors have expanded the scope of automation engineering, allowing once-simple systems to handle complex tasks across numerous sectors.
What Is an Automation Engineer?
Automation engineers are specialized professionals who develop automated processes and machinery capable of streamlining industrial workflows and other business processes. They draw heavily on cutting-edge technologies to design control systems and configure related software. Their work can make a variety of workplace tasks and processes more efficient and accurate by leveraging the power of automation.
What Does an Automation Engineer Do?
The roles and responsibilities of an automation engineer can vary considerably depending on the context in which these professionals are employed. Typically, this field encompasses a few central priorities, which are outlined in detail below:
Designs and Develops Automated Systems
Success in automation engineering begins with a thorough understanding of what, exactly, needs to be automated and why. Automation engineers confer with various stakeholders to determine what they hope to accomplish by automating systems. Based on these requirements, they can create detailed designs.
- System Design. In automation engineering, the design process involves the strategic selection of necessary software and hardware, including PLCs and sensors. Automation engineers may also develop flow diagrams to reveal how these specific elements will interact.
- Programming and Coding. Bridging the gap between design and deployment, programming allows automation engineers to determine how systems will respond to various inputs. They use coding languages to provide clear instructions for automated systems, revealing how sensor inputs will be processed and how commands will be sent to actuators, which then transform control signals into physical tasks.
Implements Automation Solutions
Following successful system development, automation engineers move forward with implementation. This must be carried out properly to ensure that automation systems reach their full potential.
- Installation and Integration. The installation process incorporates both hardware components and software applications. Additionally, automation engineers may need to set up communication networks to facilitate reliable data exchange.
- Testing and Troubleshooting. To ensure that automated systems live up to high expectations, automation engineers test these solutions extensively. Functional tests determine how these systems handle various conditions, while validation ensures that important safety or regulatory requirements are met.
Maintains and Optimizes Automated Systems
Although automated systems are designed to run on their own (with minimal human intervention), they require some level of oversight and may call for adjustments from time to time.
- Ongoing Maintenance. Routine inspections verify that systems continue to run seamlessly, and that they remain as safe and efficient as they were when originally implemented.
- Process Optimization. Automation engineers are not content to maintain the status quo of automated systems. Rather, they rely on process optimization to drive ongoing improvements in efficiency and accuracy. Automation engineers identify bottlenecks, determine their root causes, and adjust control strategies to boost long-term functionality.
Ensures Safety and Compliance
While automated systems can alleviate many safety concerns, they are not risk-free. Automation engineers should take active steps to identify and address potential safety risks or compliance issues.
- Safety Standards. Automation engineers should possess a thorough understanding of standards from authorities such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and even the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These standards cover everything from electrical equipment to hazard communication.
- Risk Assessment. To ensure that hazards are pinpointed and fully addressed, automation engineers conduct comprehensive risk assessments. These explore various mechanical, electrical, or human-centered risks, along with controls to reduce them and insights into their effectiveness.
Necessary Skills for Automation Engineers
Automation engineers possess elite technical skills but must also develop a broad-based skill set that encompasses nuanced competencies known as soft skills. They must also be highly adaptable and willing to embrace new opportunities and develop new skills as mandated by the ongoing evolution of this field.
Technical Skills
It takes considerable technical know-how to implement and maintain automated systems. Critical skills include:
- Programming and Software Knowledge. Programming languages (such as Python and Java) form the basis of automation engineering, helping engineers translate control designs into functional systems. Automation engineers should also be familiar with software solutions such as supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
- Understanding of Electrical and Mechanical Systems. Basic electrical principles and mechanical components underscore even the most technologically advanced automation systems. To that end, aspiring automation engineers should understand power systems, circuit design, pneumatics, and mechanical assembly.
Soft Skills
Although technical skills are crucial, their impact is limited if they are not accompanied by far-reaching abilities known as soft skills. These determine how automation engineers put their technical knowledge into action, and how they relate to various stakeholders.
- Problem-Solving Abilities. Automation engineering represents a unique form of problem-solving, in which advanced technologies and control theory come together to provide efficient and cost-effective solutions to common industrial concerns. Problem-solving helps automation engineers overcome integration challenges while also facilitating process improvements.
- Communication and Teamwork. Cross-disciplinary collaboration is critical in automation engineering, so these professionals should be prepared to convey complex information to many types of stakeholders. They can expect to collaborate with team members through the full cycle of system design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.
Career Opportunities for Automation Engineers
Automation engineering is a rapidly growing field, with applications emerging across several industries. Although this practice has traditionally been associated with manufacturing, some automation engineers now work in IT and other fields.
Industries Employing Automation Engineers
As automation engineering expands in scope, a wide range of job opportunities promise to bring career fulfillment to many types of professionals.
- Manufacturing and Production. From semiconductor manufacturing to pharmaceutical production, automation engineers influence various industries while also improving warehouse operations and general material handling.
- Automotive Industry. Bringing the power of automation to welding and component installation, automation engineers help boost throughput while maintaining exceptional quality control.
- Information Technology. In recent years, automation engineering has entered IT in a big way. As CIO explains, these niche professionals “develop, test, and implement technologies aimed at automating business, IT, and development processes.”
Emerging Fields in Automation Engineering
Because automation engineering is an innovation-oriented field, it has the potential to influence many cutting-edge fields. Moving forward, automation engineers could play a powerful role in advancing these areas:
- Robotics and AI. Well-versed in advanced technologies, the automation engineers of tomorrow will integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning into many complex tasks. They will work closely with data scientists to implement algorithms that drive predictive maintenance while also boosting quality control.
- Renewable Energy. There is a growing demand for renewable solutions such as solar photovoltaic arrays and wind turbines. Automation engineers can help meet this unprecedented demand by optimizing production. They may also be involved in the development and implementation of smart grids.
- Healthcare Automation. In an effort to address rising costs and labor shortages, many healthcare organizations are now seeking automation engineers to elevate everything from medical device manufacturing to mobility support exoskeletons and even surgical robots.
Salary and Job Outlook
Automation engineers are in demand. Professionals with the right skills should find it easy to score top jobs, as indicated by these promising projections:
- Job Growth and Demand. Automation engineers are in demand. With the right skill set, professionals often find it easy to secure top roles, especially as the industry becomes more diverse. Global forecasts highlight that the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is poised for massive growth, which could lead to considerable job expansion in the automation field.
- Earning Potential. While many are drawn to automation engineering for its innovative, problem-solving aspects, strong earning potential is also a compelling factor. Some industry insights suggest that automation engineer salaries are among the more lucrative positions in technology—reflecting the high level of expertise, analytical thinking, and adaptability required to design and manage complex systems.
How to Become an Automation Engineer
Now that you understand the value of automation engineering and the field’s strong growth potential, it’s time to take the next step and prepare for a promising future as an automation engineer. There is no one ‘correct’ path for becoming an automation engineer, but this journey typically begins with a multi-disciplinary education.
Start a Degree Program
Automation engineering is a complex field that calls for a robust technical skill set. This is best developed under the guidance of skilled automation engineering professionals.
When in doubt, look to targeted automation engineer degree programs to cover foundational concepts. The Bachelor of Science in Automation Engineering Technology is an excellent option, providing a strong introduction to electrical technology, machining theory, and robotics.
Build Your Technical Expertise
While the ideal degree program will provide numerous opportunities to build hands-on skills, immersive coursework will ideally be complemented by real-world experiences. One of the best ways to apply critical concepts in the field? Participating in internships, which are available through many influential organizations. Coursework can also be helpful, especially lab experiences and capstone projects.
Automation engineers should also commit to ongoing technical development, including efforts to learn new programming languages or familiarize themselves with AI and ML algorithms.
Network
No guide on how to become an automation engineer would be complete without revealing the need for strategic networking. The automation engineering community is close-knit, and even modest networking efforts can open the door to exciting job opportunities. Networking should begin with degree programs, which introduce students to the field’s most influential engineers along with the most promising engineers of tomorrow.
Another crucial pointer is joining professional organizations such as the International Society of Automation (ISA) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). These associations regularly host conferences and other networking events, which are absolutely worth attending.
Gain Relevant Certifications
While degree programs bring structure to the process of developing technical skills and problem-solving competencies, these alone may not be sufficient to get hired as an automation engineer. Ideally, job candidates will possess both relevant degrees and certifications, such as the Certified Automation Professional (CAP) and Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)
Start Your Automation Engineering Technology Degree at Baker
Ready to begin an exciting professional journey as an automation engineer? Our Bachelor of Science in Automation Engineering Technology provides a powerful introduction to one of today’s most promising fields. Reach out to learn more about this degree program.