Being an Automation Technician's salary is a great way to make a living. The competitive wages reflect the importance of the role and the skills that an Automation Technician can bring to the table. But what factors influence how much money you can make? And how can you improve your pay as an Automation Technician?
Keep reading to find out!
What Does an Automation Technician Do?
An Automation Technician maintains the computerized robotic systems that control automation. The machines they service are typically found in industrial settings, like food processing and manufacturing plants. They also work with automatic doors, climate control systems, and security equipment.
An automation technician’s responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Installing new robotic systems
- Programming existing robotic systems
- Troubleshooting system issues
- Conducting routine maintenance
- Training other employees on how to use the system
How Much Does an Automation Technician Make?
Per Indeed, the average salary for an automation technician in the U.S. is $26.43 per hour. A general technician, by comparison, makes $19.36 per hour.
Specializing in automation boosts your pay because automation is a busy, thriving industry with a strong need for skilled workers. An automated system that replaces human workers can save companies significant money.
These savings are the primary reason why there’s such high demand for Automation Technicians who can design, install, and maintain these systems.
What Factors Influence an Automation Technician’s Salary?
Multiple factors impact your salary as an automation technician. These include your location, experience, and education. Here's how these elements affect your paycheck.
Location
Automation Technicians in some cities earn more than others, even within the same state. For example, in Midland, Texas, the average salary is $34.20 per hour. In Houston, Texas, Automation Technicians only make $24.56. That’s nearly a $10 difference!
Experience
Generally speaking, the longer you work as an Automation Technician, the higher your salary. Per Ziprecruiter, an experienced Automation Technician can earn more than $90,000 per year.
Education
A high school degree is the minimum level of education required for most positions, but having an associate’s or bachelor’s degree may offer better job opportunities and lead to a higher salary.
How To Increase Your Automation Technician Salary
There are a few ways to increase your salary as an automation technician.
Improve your Skills
The best way to improve your salary is by improving your skills. Take courses, attend workshops, and read books to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. The more knowledgeable you are, the more valuable you’ll be to potential employers. Here are a few things to study:
- How to service industrial robots
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming
- Industrial networking and protocols
- Operational processes in manufacturing plants
Get Certified
Earning voluntary certification is another way to show employers that you’re dedicated to your career and have the skills they need. Automation Certification Institute offers a Certified Automation Professional credential and is recognized by many in the industry.
Network
Finally, don’t forget the power of networking. Get connected with other technicians and don’t be afraid to discuss salary. The more you know, the better your chances of negotiating a high-paying offer. If you learn you’re being underpaid, consider taking this information to your boss and asking for a raise.
If you’re looking for a challenging, rewarding career in a growing industry, becoming an Automation Technician is a great choice. With the right skills and experience, you can earn a competitive salary and enjoy job security for years to come.
Visit the FactoryFix job board when you’re ready to look for open positions. Schedule an appointment with our Career Coach if you’d like to discuss your resume with a professional before you send it in.
.svg)
