Growing โ€” Industry 4.0 & Smart Factories

Industrial Automation Technician Career Guide
Pay, Path & How to Get Started

$48K
Entry Level
$74K
Median Pay
$110K
Top 10%
National figures ยท BLS OEWS, May 2025
Overview

What Does an Industrial Automation Technician Do?

Industrial automation technicians install, program, and maintain the automated systems that run modern factories โ€” PLCs, sensors, motors, robots, and control panels. As manufacturers automate, these mechatronics skills are among the most in-demand and future-proof in the trades.

Why People Choose This Trade

  • Right at the center of factory automation
  • Blends electrical, mechanical, and programming skills
  • Strong, growing demand as plants modernize
  • Higher pay than many entry trades
  • Clear path into robotics and controls engineering

A Typical Day

  • Programming and troubleshooting PLCs
  • Maintaining motors, drives, and sensors
  • Wiring and testing control panels
  • Diagnosing faults on automated lines
  • Integrating and calibrating robotic cells

Quick Stats

DemandVery High
Job Growth (10yr)+13% (BLS)
Training PathAssociate / Apprenticeship
Time to Qualify2โ€“4 Years
Student DebtLowโ€“Moderate

Key Certifications

  • PLC (Allen-Bradley / Siemens)
  • Mechatronics associate degree
  • SACA certifications
  • Robotics (FANUC/ABB, optional)
Career Path

How the Career Progresses

1

Maintenance / Entry Tech

Supporting automated equipment and learning controls. $20โ€“$25/hr.

2

Automation Technician

Programming PLCs and troubleshooting systems independently. $28โ€“$35/hr.

3

Senior / Controls Tech

Leading integration and complex diagnostics. $35โ€“$45/hr.

4

Controls Specialist / Engineer Support

Designing and commissioning automated systems.

Related Trades

Explore Similar Careers

Your skills and interests may align with more than one trade. Compare before committing.

Robotics Technician โ†’Machinist / CNC โ†’Electrician โ†’
Free Tool

See Full Salary Data

Our Salary Compare tool shows Industrial Automation Technician wages at every experience level โ€” and compares them against other trades and a 4-year degree path.

Compare Industrial Automation Technician Salaries โ†’

Ready to Explore Industrial Automation Technician?

Find training programs and trade schools near you. Free search, no account required.

Find Programs Near You โ†’