An Automation Engineer programmes and maintains PLC and SCADA control systems that run production equipment and feed operational data into MES platforms.
Definition
An Automation Engineer designs, programmes, and maintains the control systems that run production equipment. They work with PLCs, HMIs, robots, and SCADA systems to automate manufacturing processes. In a modern MES context, they're increasingly responsible for the OT layer that feeds data up to the MES, making them a critical integration point in any digitalisation programme.
What this means when you're hiring
Automation Engineers are chronically undersupplied across every manufacturing sector. The skills gap is real and growing as experienced engineers retire and not enough graduates enter the field. Salaries range from £40,000 to £75,000 in the UK depending on platform depth and sector. Senior automation engineers with SCADA experience and MES integration knowledge regularly command £80,000 to £95,000. Day rates run £350 to £600. In Germany and Austria, €50,000 to €85,000 covers the majority of the market.
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