Automation Engineer
Job description, Salary, Resume, and Interview Questions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT DOES An Automation Engineer DO?
Automation Engineers play a pivotal role in transforming manual processes into efficient, scalable systems that enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. They work closely with cross-functional teams across business, IT, and engineering to identify automation opportunities, develop robust workflows, and implement solutions that optimize performance and ensure consistent quality.
Successful Automation Engineers possess a strong understanding of systems integration, scripting, and modern automation tools. They excel at troubleshooting, process analysis, and translating technical requirements into streamlined automated solutions. These professionals are detail-oriented, innovative, and driven by results, with a deep focus on improving reliability, minimizing errors, and supporting long-term business success through intelligent automation.
AVERAGE SALARY FOR
Automation Engineers
Salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, experience, educational background, and industry sector.
$102,502
Automation Engineer Job Descriptions
Below are four types of Automation Engineer job descriptions, detailing the range and expectations of the role:
Job Description:
We are seeking a QA Automation Engineer to develop and maintain automated test scripts that ensure the reliability, performance, and functionality of software products. This role is ideal for individuals with strong scripting skills and a deep understanding of quality assurance methodologies.
Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and maintain automated test frameworks for web and mobile applications.
- Collaborate with developers, QA analysts, and product managers to identify test requirements and scenarios.
- Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines for continuous feedback.
- Analyze test results, identify bugs, and support debugging efforts.
- Maintain comprehensive test documentation and track defect metrics.
- Contribute to test planning and strategy for releases.
- Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience with automation tools such as Selenium, Cypress, or Playwright.
- Proficient in scripting languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript.
- Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and CI tools (e.g., Jenkins).
- Strong understanding of QA processes, Agile methodology, and test lifecycle.
Job Description:
We are looking for a DevOps Automation Engineer to automate infrastructure provisioning, deployment processes, and system monitoring. The ideal candidate will have experience in creating scalable, secure automation pipelines and managing cloud infrastructure.
Responsibilities:
- Design and implement automation scripts for cloud infrastructure and configuration management.
- Develop and maintain CI/CD pipelines to streamline deployment workflows.
- Automate performance monitoring, logging, and alerting systems.
- Collaborate with development, QA, and operations teams to improve build and release processes.
- Ensure system scalability, availability, and compliance through automation.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Experience with tools like Ansible, Terraform, Jenkins, or GitLab CI/CD.
- Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
- Proficiency in scripting languages (e.g., Bash, Python, Groovy).
- Strong knowledge of containers and orchestration tools (Docker, Kubernetes).
Job Description:
We are hiring an Industrial Automation Engineer to design, program, and maintain automated machinery and control systems in manufacturing environments. This role requires hands-on experience with PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial robotics.
Responsibilities:
- Develop control logic and automation programs using PLCs and HMIs.
- Configure and maintain SCADA systems for process monitoring.
- Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers on automation designs.
- Conduct system testing, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated equipment.
- Document automation processes, system architecture, and change logs.
- Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
- Hands-on experience with PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
- Proficiency in industrial protocols and standards (Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP).
- Familiarity with robotics, sensors, and safety systems in manufacturing.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in technical documentation.
Job Description:
We are seeking a Test Automation Framework Engineer to design reusable, scalable automation frameworks that support development and QA teams. The role focuses on optimizing test architecture and improving test execution across the software lifecycle.
Responsibilities:
- Architect and build modular automation frameworks compatible with multiple platforms.
- Integrate testing tools into CI/CD workflows for fast feedback loops.
- Lead framework maintenance, version upgrades, and performance tuning.
- Train team members on automation best practices and framework use.
- Analyze test coverage and propose enhancements to improve efficiency.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Strong experience with test automation tools like TestNG, JUnit, Robot Framework.
- Skilled in Java, Python, or similar programming languages.
- Familiarity with build tools (Maven, Gradle) and CI/CD systems (e.g., GitHub Actions).
- Ability to create highly maintainable and extensible test architectures.
Candidate Certifications to Look For
Consider the following certifications and qualifications when evaluating candidates:
Offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), the CAP certification is highly regarded in the automation industry. It validates an individual’s ability to design, operate, and manage automation systems effectively. It’s ideal for professionals looking to gain credibility in the automation field.
This certification from Amazon Web Services (AWS) focuses on the skills needed for automating and managing infrastructure and applications in AWS environments. It’s tailored for professionals in DevOps roles, but it’s also highly relevant for automation engineers working in cloud-based environments.
This certification is offered by CloudBees and focuses on Jenkins, a leading open-source automation server often used for CI/CD pipeline automation. It’s perfect for automation engineers working in software development environments, particularly those focused on automating build and deployment processes.
HOW TO HIRE An Automation Engineer
Securing a skilled Automation Engineer requires a strategic approach to identifying professionals with strong technical expertise and problem-solving skills. Here are key strategies to help you hire top talent:
Comprehensive Job Descriptions: Clearly articulate the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role to attract candidates who meet the specific needs of your organization.
Automation Engineer Competency Assessments: Use hands-on evaluations such as scripting challenges, process automation scenarios, logic-based flow design, system integration tasks, and troubleshooting exercises to assess candidates’ ability to develop efficient, scalable automation solutions that address real-world operational needs.
Focus on Detail Orientation: During interviews, ask questions designed to gauge candidates’ attention to detail and their approach to minimizing errors in their work.
Highlight Opportunities for Growth: Emphasize any potential for career advancement or skill development within the organization to attract candidates who are looking for long-term opportunities.
Leverage IT-Specific Platforms: Post job listings on platforms that specialize in IT roles, such as those focused on systems engineers, network administrators, and cloud specialists, to access a broader pool of qualified technical candidates.
Automation Engineer Interview Questions
- How do you ensure accuracy when gathering automation requirements, selecting tools, or coordinating across software, infrastructure, and business teams?
- Describe your experience working with developers and system engineers. How do you communicate effectively with teams using languages like Python, Java, or shell scripting?
- What strategies do you use to manage competing priorities, such as automating repetitive processes, maintaining existing scripts, and addressing urgent operational issues?
- Can you share an example of identifying and resolving a critical automation failure or inefficiency that impacted system performance or business operations?
- How do you stay organized when managing multiple automation initiatives, tracking test results, and maintaining scripts across environments?
- Describe a complex automation project you led. What was your role, and how did your automation approach contribute to its success?
- How do you ensure data privacy, security, and compliance when building or deploying automation tools that access sensitive systems or third-party platforms?
- What’s the most challenging aspect of designing automation solutions, and how do you ensure they’re reliable, scalable, and aligned with business needs?
- How do you approach quality assurance for your automation code, including testing scripts, validating results, and incorporating user feedback?
- What steps do you take to stay up to date on the latest automation frameworks, scripting tools, and industry trends in DevOps or system orchestration?
THREE EASY WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR tech TEAM
CompuForce can assist you in finding the right Automation Engineer for your team. Here are three ways to complete your tech team:
- Utilize CompuForce, a specialized tech staffing agency.
- Post your job on leading tech job boards.
- Leverage your professional network in the tech sector. CompuForce offers access to a network of pre-screened and qualified tech professionals.
NEED HELP HIRING An Automation Engineer
Discover how CompuForce can elevate your hiring process with tailored staffing solutions. Contact us today to experience a partnership that transforms your recruitment strategy and connects you with top-tier talent.
