Automation Engineer Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Designed for professionals pursuing careers at the intersection of engineering and industrial technology, this program equips learners with the foundational knowledge and hands-on expertise needed to support the design, deployment, and upkeep of automated manufacturing and control systems. Graduates emerge ready to contribute effectively within high-precision industrial environments, ensuring operational efficiency, system reliability, and seamless integration of advanced automation technologies.
- Computer Systems Integration: Explore how digital platforms and software architectures enable real-time data exchange and system coordination within automated environments.
- Electronics and Instrumentation: Develop a deep understanding of electronic components, signal conditioning, and measurement devices critical for accurate system monitoring and feedback.
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs): Master the configuration, programming, and troubleshooting of PLCs used to automate industrial processes and machinery.
- Electric, Hydraulic, and Pneumatic Control Systems: Study the principles and applications of fluid power and electrical systems that drive and regulate industrial automation components.
- Actuator and Sensor Systems: Learn how input and output devices detect environmental changes and execute mechanical responses in automated workflows.
- Process Control Fundamentals: Gain insight into feedback loops, control algorithms, and system stability to maintain consistent performance across production cycles.
- Industrial Robotics: Examine robotic arm operation, path programming, safety protocols, and integration within automated assembly and material handling systems.
- Application-Specific Automation: Apply core concepts to real-world scenarios in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, packaging, food processing, and energy production.
- Technical Documentation and Reporting: Cultivate the ability to produce clear, accurate reports and schematics essential for maintenance, audits, and system handovers.
Automation Engineer Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Automation Engineer Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Automation Engineer Technology degrees, including Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians and Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 107,390 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians 17-3023 | $77,180 | $48,250 - $111,790 | 92,710 | $37.11 |
| Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians 17-3024 | $70,760 | $47,770 - $109,580 | 14,680 | $34.02 |
Salary Comparison
Automation Engineer Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $51,280 in Indiana to $102,500 in District of Columbia—a 100% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Washington, and Rhode Island. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 107,390 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Automation Engineer Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 90 institutions offering Automation Engineer Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Automation Engineer Technology is found at ECPI University (ECPI) (144 graduates), Hennepin Technical College (HTC) (123 graduates), Vincennes University (VU) (110 graduates), South Central College (SCC) (57 graduates), and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) (53 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 1,364 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Automation Engineer Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Automation Engineer Technology degree?
Salaries for Automation Engineer Technology graduates vary by role and location. Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $77,180 annually, while Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians earn around $70,760. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $102,500 compared to $51,280 in Indiana. Approximately 107,390 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Automation Engineer Technology programs?
Currently 90 accredited institutions offer Automation Engineer Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include ECPI University (ECPI) (144 graduates), Hennepin Technical College (HTC) (123 graduates), and Vincennes University (VU) (110 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Automation Engineer Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 78 in 2010 to 1,364 in 2023-24. This represents a 1,649% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Automation Engineer Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians, . Related occupations employ approximately 107,390 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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