Discover the daily responsibilities, required skills, and employment opportunities of an automation engineer. Explore statistics surrounding industry growth, salary potential, and most commonly-held qualifications in the field.
Overview
Automation engineers are tasked with ensuring a business’ automation processes are built, maintained, and performing as necessary. They may be tasked with identifying new business opportunities for automation or develop automated solutions according to client or company needs. Once an automated process is developed, these experts may then run tests across network, systems, databases, and software to ensure optimal, error-free performance.
Automation engineers must also have a strong grasp of a business’ regulations and service/product quality standards. Their solutions should ensure productivity, while also maintaining quality and adhering to business protocols.
As a subset of software developers, job opportunities for the field are expected to grow very strongly in the next five years – with a projected 23.4% growth, according to SEEK statistics.
Key Skills
A high-level understanding of computer software, hardware, networks, and systems
Excellent communication skills for collaborating and communicating with clients, developers, and customers
Problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative skills for pinpointing automation opportunities and applying the appropriate solutions
Extensive knowledge of programming languages, including SQL, C#, and Java (languages and coding tools may vary depending on your industry)
Strong knowledge of robotics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and analytics
Strong interpersonal and leadership skills for guiding business/clients through automation solutions and opportunities
Quick Facts
Automation engineers can find work in most regions of Australia, with New South Wales and Victoria currently holding the largest share of workers. Weekly salary potential is currently higher ($2,003) than the all job average ($1,460) with plenty of opportunity for full-time work.
Salary Range
$59,000 - $120,000 (Median: $82,000)*
*Source: Payscale
Average Weekly Hours
41 hours (vs. all jobs average of 44 hours)*
*Source: Job Outlook
Main Industries
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services; Financial and Insurance Services; and Public Administration and Safety
STUDY PATHWAYS
Getting the skills you need is simple by studying one of our information technology courses below.
ICT40120 - Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (Back End Web Development)
ICT50220 – Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking)
*Sources: payscale.com.au and joboutlook.gov.au – All information is to be used as a guide only, and are accurate at the time of publication.
