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If you’ve Googled “Automation Engineer job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing repeated everywhere: a wall of bullet points, vague responsibilities, and zero personality. The problem is, posts like that don’t actually help you attract great candidates—they just check a box. Top engineers aren’t excited by filler content. They want to know what they’ll be building, why it matters, and what kind of team they’ll be joining.
That’s why before we dive into the specifics of an Automation Engineer role, I recommend you read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It explains why most job posts fail to convert quality applicants, and how small tweaks—like transparency, human tone, and culture—can transform your job post into a magnet for top talent.
In this article, we’ll go beyond the generic “responsibilities and requirements” list and show you how to write an Automation Engineer job description that actually works.
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What an Automation Engineer Actually Does
An Automation Engineer designs and builds systems that replace repetitive manual work with smart, reliable processes. Their job is to make things run faster, smoother, and with fewer errors—whether that’s in manufacturing, software testing, or business operations.
Think of them as the bridge between people and technology. Instead of having a team member repeat the same task over and over, an Automation Engineer creates tools, scripts, or machines that handle the work automatically.
That’s why the role is so valuable: they don’t just save time, they reduce mistakes, cut costs, and free up human talent to focus on higher-value work. In other words, they make your entire operation more efficient and scalable.
Some of the qualities that matter most here aren’t just technical skills, but traits like:
- Problem-solving → spotting inefficiencies and finding smarter solutions.
- Attention to detail → ensuring automated systems don’t break under pressure.
- Collaboration → working with teams to understand what needs to be automated and why.
In short: an Automation Engineer isn’t just a “coder” or “technician.” They’re a systems thinker who helps your company work smarter.
Two Great Automation Engineer Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Automation Engineer
Job Title: Automation Engineer — Smart Factory Systems at Atlas Components
💼 Full-Time | Hybrid (Austin, TX) | $95,000–$120,000 + 10% bonus
A quick word from our hiring manager
(Watch a 60–90 sec Loom from our Plant Engineering Manager explaining the role, team, and roadmap.)
➡️ [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
Atlas Components is a 22-year-old precision manufacturer of HVAC and energy-control components, headquartered in Austin with a second plant in Round Rock. We’re modernizing our operations with IIoT sensors, vision systems, and a new MES so we can build smarter, faster, and with near-zero defects.
Why This Role Matters
You’ll design and scale the automation that powers our production lines—reducing manual bottlenecks, improving yield, and freeing teams to focus on high-value work.
What You’ll Do
- Design, build, and maintain automation for assembly and test stations (PLCs, sensors, vision).
- Develop scripts and services (Python/Node) to integrate machines with MES/ERP (OPC UA, REST APIs).
- Stand up robust monitoring and alerting for critical stations; root-cause and resolve downtime issues.
- Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, and IT to prioritize automation opportunities and quantify impact.
- Create clear docs, training, and handover materials to support scale and maintainability.
What We’re Looking For
- 3–5+ years in automation/controls/industrial software.
- Hands-on with PLCs (Allen-Bradley/Siemens), industrial comms (OPC UA/Modbus), and sensors/vision.
- Proficient in Python (preferred) or similar; SQL basics; source control (Git).
- Bonus: Docker/Kubernetes, Ignition/SCADA, CI/CD for test rigs, SPC, or machine vision (OpenCV).
- Communicates clearly and loves turning messy processes into elegant systems.
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision + HSA options
- 401(k) with company match
- 20 PTO days + 10 paid holidays + paid parental leave
- $1,500 annual learning stipend (certs, courses, conferences)
- Hybrid schedule with on-site lab access
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Greenfield automation projects with measurable business impact
- Time and budget for prototyping the “right” solution, not just the fastest
- Close-knit, cross-functional team that ships, learns, and iterates
- Clear growth path into Staff/Lead Automation or Manufacturing Systems Architect
📥 How to Apply
We hire based on skill and impact—not just résumés. Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]. You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation so we can understand your problem-solving approach.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Automation Engineer (Willing to Train)
Job Title: Junior Automation Engineer — Learn & Grow at Atlas Components
💼 Full-Time | On-site preferred (Austin, TX) with flexible remote days | $55,000–$70,000
A quick word from our hiring manager
(60–90 sec Loom from the Lead Automation Engineer on mentorship, tech stack, and first 90 days.)
➡️ [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
Atlas Components builds precision HVAC and energy-control parts used by OEMs across North America. We’re expanding our smart factory program and opening the door to motivated junior engineers who want real-world automation experience with hands-on mentorship.
Why This Role Matters
You’ll help us replace repetitive manual steps with reliable, well-documented automation—starting small, learning fast, and growing into bigger projects.
What You’ll Do
- Learn PLC basics and assist with updates to stations under senior guidance.
- Write simple Python scripts to move data between machines, MES, and dashboards.
- Build and maintain documentation, wiring diagrams, and checklists.
- Set up dashboards/alerts (Grafana/IGN/SCADA) and help validate fixes on the floor.
- Shadow senior engineers and ship incremental improvements in your first 90 days.
What We’re Looking For
- Some exposure to programming/scripting (Python preferred) and curiosity about hardware.
- Comfortable with spreadsheets/SQL basics; eager to learn PLCs and industrial comms.
- Projects/hackathons/DIY builds are a plus—show us what you’ve made.
- Clear communicator with a growth mindset.
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision + HSA options
- 401(k) with company match
- 18 PTO days + 10 paid holidays
- $1,000 annual learning stipend + paid certifications
- Tooling budget for boards, sensors, and test gear
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Mentorship from senior automation and controls engineers
- Real responsibilities from week one with safe guardrails
- Structured learning plan: PLC fundamentals → integrations → lead a station upgrade
- Portfolio-ready projects you can point to and be proud of
📥 How to Apply
We don’t want great candidates lost in a résumé pile. Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]. You’ll complete a short, practical assessment that lets your skills shine—regardless of background.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Breakdown of Why These Automation Engineer Job Posts Work
Both templates are structured to attract top candidates—not just fill a checkbox. Here’s why:
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of “Automation Engineer,” the titles specify the focus and context:
- “Automation Engineer — Smart Factory Systems at Atlas Components”
- “Junior Automation Engineer — Learn & Grow at Atlas Components”
This instantly signals who the role is for, what they’ll do, and why it matters—making the post more relevant and attractive.
2. Human, Story-Driven Intros
Each template begins with a short Loom video and a warm intro that explains why the role exists. Instead of diving straight into duties, it tells a story about Atlas Components, its modernization efforts, and the role’s impact. This helps candidates connect emotionally, not just logically.
3. Transparent Salary & Benefits
Both posts clearly list compensation ranges, PTO, holidays, and learning stipends. Transparency builds trust and filters out candidates who aren’t aligned with your budget. Top talent expects clarity up front.
4. Distinct “Perks & Benefits” vs. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”
Separating these sections matters. Benefits cover the tangible (insurance, PTO, 401k), while “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” sells the intangibles (mentorship, growth, impactful projects). This combination appeals to both the head and the heart.
5. Role Impact Is Emphasized
The responsibilities aren’t written as dry checklists. Instead, they’re framed around impact:
- “Reduce manual bottlenecks, improve yield, and free teams to focus on high-value work.”
- “Help us replace repetitive manual steps with reliable, well-documented automation.”
This shows candidates that their work has purpose and visibility inside the company.
6. Candidate Experience Is Respectful
Both templates highlight that Atlas reviews every application and uses WorkScreen to provide a fair, skills-based process. This immediately sets them apart from the majority of companies where candidates feel ignored or ghosted.
7. Flexibility for Different Candidate Profiles
By providing both an experienced hire version and an entry-level version, Atlas Components opens the door to a wider pool of talent. Experienced candidates see the high-impact, greenfield projects. Juniors see mentorship and a growth path.
8. Personality & Differentiation
Most job descriptions sound like they were copy-pasted from an HR handbook. These examples sound human, specific, and mission-driven. The tone makes candidates feel like they’re joining a team with a purpose, not just filling a seat.
👉 This breakdown helps readers understand not just what to write, but why it works.
Example of a Bad Automation Engineer Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Automation Engineer
Company: Atlas Components
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
Atlas Components is seeking to hire an Automation Engineer to help improve efficiency. The ideal candidate will support automation systems and help the team with various projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop automation solutions.
- Test and maintain automated systems.
- Provide technical support when needed.
- Work with other departments as required.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field.
- 3–5 years of experience.
- Knowledge of automation tools and software.
- Strong communication skills.
How to Apply
Send your résumé and cover letter to hr@atlascomponents.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic, Lifeless Title
Just “Automation Engineer” tells candidates nothing about the role’s focus, impact, or uniqueness. It could belong to any company in any industry. - Cold, Vague Introduction
The intro doesn’t explain why the role exists, what Atlas is building, or how automation fits into the bigger mission. It feels like filler text. - Responsibilities Are Too Broad
The list could apply to any automation job. There’s no sense of what tools, systems, or challenges the engineer will actually face. - No Mention of Culture or Values
Nothing tells the candidate what it’s like to work at Atlas, what the team values, or how the company treats employees. Culture fit is a key factor for top talent, and it’s missing. - No Transparency on Salary or Perks
Leaving out pay, benefits, and time-off details makes the post look outdated and uncompetitive. Today’s candidates expect clarity. - Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels impersonal and discouraging. It suggests the company sees applicants as disposable rather than as people investing time to apply. - Zero Personality in the Call-to-Action
Ending with just an email makes the post feel transactional and cold—like the company isn’t serious about attracting talent.
👉 This “bad example” creates a useful contrast with the earlier strong templates. It shows how a generic, copy-paste job description will repel great candidates instead of attracting them.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Automation Engineer Job Post Stand Out
Even with a strong structure, small details can make the difference between an average job post and one that truly connects with top candidates. Here are a few enhancements you can add to your Automation Engineer job description:
1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Trust & Security
Job seekers are increasingly cautious about scams. Adding a short notice builds trust instantly. Example:
“We take applicant security seriously. Atlas Components will never ask for payment, banking information, or sensitive financial details during any stage of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave & Flexibility Upfront
Engineers value rest and flexibility as much as pay. If you offer PTO, flex days, or remote options, highlight it in your post. Example:
“Enjoy up to 24 paid days off per year—including flexible personal days—so you can recharge and stay at your best.”
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Top candidates are looking for career progression, not just a paycheck. Mention certifications, mentorship, or project ownership. Example:
“We invest in growth. Atlas covers certifications in PLCs, Python, and cloud automation, and provides mentorship from senior engineers.”
4. Include a Video From a Hiring Manager or Team Lead
A short Loom or YouTube clip can set your post apart. It gives the role a human touch and shows applicants the faces behind the company.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Share Real Employee Testimonials or Glassdoor Links
Nothing builds credibility like hearing from actual team members. If you have positive reviews, include them—or link to Glassdoor or LinkedIn posts.
6. Be Clear About the Candidate Experience
Respect applicants’ time by setting expectations. Example:
“We review every application, respond within two weeks, and keep you updated at every stage of the process.”
👉 These small additions take just a few minutes to add, but they can massively improve trust, transparency, and overall candidate experience—helping you attract better applicants.
Should You Use AI to Write an Automation Engineer Job Description?
With tools like ChatGPT, Workable, and Manatal offering one-click job description generators, it’s tempting to let AI do all the work. But here’s the truth: if you rely on AI blindly, you’ll end up with the same generic, lifeless job posts that top Automation Engineers scroll right past.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
Typing “Write me an Automation Engineer job description” into an AI tool will give you:
- Generic filler responsibilities like “Design and implement automation solutions”
- Vague qualifications that could fit anyone
- A post with zero personality, no culture, and no sense of mission
Result? You attract the wrong candidates—or worse, no candidates at all.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
Think of AI as your assistant, not your replacement. You provide the raw inputs, and AI helps you polish them. Here’s how:
- Feed it real company context
- What Atlas Components does (manufacturing HVAC and energy-control parts)
- The role’s purpose (smart factory automation to eliminate manual bottlenecks)
- Your culture (mentorship, precision, and innovation)
- What Atlas Components does (manufacturing HVAC and energy-control parts)
- Include specifics about the role
- Tools: PLCs, Python, SCADA, MES integrations
- Growth opportunities: certifications, mentorship, ownership of projects
- Candidate experience: transparent hiring process via WorkScreen
- Tools: PLCs, Python, SCADA, MES integrations
- Give AI starter notes
Example prompt:
“Help me write a job post for an Automation Engineer at Atlas Components. We’re a manufacturing company in Austin modernizing our plant with smart factory systems. This engineer will work with PLCs, Python, and MES integrations. Our culture values precision, mentorship, and innovation. We offer $95k–$120k, full benefits, 20 PTO days, and a $1,500 annual learning stipend. Here are my notes: [insert rough bullets]. Write in a conversational, candidate-friendly tone.”
By giving AI the ingredients, you get a job description that’s tailored, clear, and human.
👉 Bottom line: AI is great for polishing and structuring your job post, but it can’t replace your input. Your culture, your mission, and your expectations need to lead—AI just helps you refine the message.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
We know that sometimes, you just need something solid—fast.
Maybe you’ve read the guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a professional, ready-to-use template you can copy, paste, and customize in just a few minutes.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
Job Title: Automation Engineer – Smart Factory Systems at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager (60–90 sec)
[Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [brief description: e.g., precision manufacturer / SaaS platform / distribution company] focused on eliminating repetitive work with smart, reliable automation. We’re modernizing operations across [plants/systems/teams] with [IIoT/CI/CD/robotics/test automation—tailor to your context] so people can focus on higher-value work.
Why This Role Matters
You’ll design and scale automation that reduces manual bottlenecks, improves quality/uptime, and speeds delivery. Your work won’t just improve tools—it’ll shape how our business runs.
What You’ll Do
- Build and maintain automation for [assembly/test lines | CI/CD pipelines | QA test frameworks].
- Develop scripts/services ([Python/PowerShell/Bash/Node]) and integrate with [MES/SCADA/ERP/APIs/CI tools].
- Monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and deliver continuous improvements.
- Partner with [Ops/IT/Engineering/QA] to prioritize high-impact automation opportunities.
- Create clear docs and hand-offs so solutions scale beyond you.
What We’re Looking For
- [3+ years] in [automation/controls/devops/test automation].
- Hands-on with [PLCs (Allen-Bradley/Siemens) or Selenium/Playwright; Jenkins/GitLab CI; Docker/Kubernetes; OPC UA/REST APIs/SQL].
- Strong problem-solving, systems thinking, and communication.
- Bonus: [Ignition/SCADA, OpenCV, SPC, cloud services, IaC].
Perks & Benefits
- [Health, dental, vision] + [401(k) match/HSA]
- **[X] PTO days + [Y] paid holidays + [parental leave]
- [${X}] annual learning stipend (certs, courses, conferences)
- [Remote/hybrid flexibility] and [on-site lab/equipment access]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- High-impact projects with measurable results
- Time/budget for prototyping the right solution
- Supportive, cross-functional team that ships, learns, and iterates
- Clear growth paths into [Staff/Lead/Architect/Manager]
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]. You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation so we understand your skills—not just your résumé.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
Job Title: Automation Engineer – [Focus Area, e.g., Test Automation/Controls] at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract]
💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring an Automation Engineer to design, implement, and scale automation across [manufacturing lines/systems/CI pipelines/test suites]. You’ll use [PLCs/Selenium/Python/Jenkins/APIs—tailor] to cut manual work, reduce errors, and improve throughput.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain automation for [lines/pipelines/test frameworks].
- Integrate with [MES/SCADA/ERP/CI tools/APIs] and ensure reliability/observability.
- Monitor KPIs, troubleshoot issues, and ship continuous improvements.
- Document designs, create runbooks, and support knowledge transfer.
- Research and recommend tools/techniques that improve efficiency.
Requirements
- [Bachelor’s] in [Engineering/CS or related] or equivalent experience.
- [X]+ years in [automation/controls/devops/test automation].
- Proficiency in [Python/PowerShell/Bash] and [PLCs or test frameworks like Playwright/Selenium].
- Familiar with [Git, CI/CD, Docker/K8s, databases/SQL, APIs].
- Clear communicator with strong problem-solving skills.
Perks & Benefits
- [Health, dental, vision] + [401(k) match/HSA]
- [X] PTO days + [Y] paid holidays
- [Learning stipend/certifications covered]
- [Remote/hybrid flexibility or relocation support]
📥 How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen.io link]. We review every application and keep you updated throughout the process.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a strong job description is only the first step. Once the applications start rolling in, the real challenge begins: figuring out who’s genuinely qualified and who just looks good on paper. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
The result? Faster, smarter, and more confident hiring decisions—without wasting time on unqualified resumes.
👉 Start by creating your Automation Engineer job post with WorkScreen today. You’ll get a shareable application link, a streamlined evaluation process, and the confidence that you’re hiring right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions - Automation Engineer Job Descriptions
Beyond technical knowledge, the best Automation Engineers combine hard skills and soft skills:
- Technical: scripting/programming (Python, Bash, PowerShell), PLCs or test automation frameworks, CI/CD tools, cloud services, and data integration (APIs, SQL).
- Problem-Solving: spotting inefficiencies, debugging systems, and optimizing workflows.
- Collaboration: working with cross-functional teams (operations, IT, QA, manufacturing).
- Attention to Detail: automation needs precision—small errors can have big consequences.
Adaptability: automation tools and frameworks evolve quickly, so a growth mindset is essential.
Salaries vary by industry, seniority, and location, but here’s a general range (U.S. averages):
- Entry-Level/Junior: $55,000 – $75,000
- Mid-Level: $80,000 – $100,000
- Senior/Lead: $105,000 – $130,000+
Specialized industries (like pharmaceuticals or robotics) may pay even higher due to niche expertise.
- Automation Engineer: focuses on integrating systems, writing scripts, and designing end-to-end automation solutions (can be manufacturing, IT, or software-based).
Controls Engineer: usually specialized in hardware systems, PLCs, and instrumentation that directly control machines.
In many companies, these roles overlap, but Automation Engineers often take a broader, systems-level approach.- Automation Engineer: focuses on integrating systems, writing scripts, and designing end-to-end automation solutions (can be manufacturing, IT, or software-based).
Signs include:
- High volumes of repetitive manual work slowing down teams
- Frequent errors in processes that could be standardized
- Bottlenecks in production, testing, or IT operations
- Desire to scale operations without proportionally increasing headcount
If these pain points sound familiar, hiring an Automation Engineer can deliver quick ROI.
