How to Become An Automation Engineer
8 Courses
An Automation Engineer designs, builds, and maintains automated systems that help industries run without constant manual work. It’s a hands-on tech career that spans manufacturing, mining, food production, utilities, and data centres across Australia.
On a typical day, you might program a PLC to run a production line. Or you might set up a SCADA system to track plant equipment in real time. Fixing faults that stop a process is also a common task. The work mixes software, hardware, and problem-solving in a way few other careers do.
Most entry roles look for a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or systems engineering. A VET path also exists: the Advanced Diploma of Industrial Automation Engineering (52886WA). This takes around 18 months and covers PLC programming, instrumentation, and control systems.
The field is growing fast. Australian industries are adopting automation and Industry 4.0 tech at pace. Skilled Automation Engineers are in demand across most states. It’s a career that rewards curiosity, technical skill, and a love of learning.
Career Outlook for Automation Engineer
Automation Engineers in Australia have strong career prospects. The average salary is around $92,432 a year (PayScale, 2026). Pay ranges from $62,000 for starting roles up to $133,000 for senior engineers. Most work full-time at about 38 to 40 hours a week. Some roles in plants or sites need shift work or on-call cover.
Demand is growing. Manufacturing, resources, energy, and infrastructure sectors are all investing in automated tech. Jobs and Skills Australia projects engineering employment to grow by around 6.5% over the next five years (2025). The push for Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing means demand for automation skills should stay strong.
Entry-level roles exist across most states. Queensland and Western Australia have high demand from the resources sector. Victoria has strong manufacturing activity. With experience, you can move into project management, senior engineering, or specialist consulting. The career offers clear paths for growth.
About the author
Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.
