Are you looking for a new skill or a job to learn in this new world, please let that choice of yours be automation. All what human knows best to do have been replaced by robots already, leaving human with the choice of only operating, monitoring and supervising it instead of doing the work. Guess what made it a reality? It is a series of code put together to automate a system. Yes, I’m talking about automation.
Automation: what is automation, it is the use of series of code or program that is automated into systems or process to bring out a desired results. It is the current thing any electrical personnel should be grabbing for in this present world. Automation is a method of operating or controlling a process by automatic means. Things such as electronic devices, machines, and even robots are used to automate tasks that used to be completed by humans.
Advances in software, machine learning, and robotics are quickly making it possible for companies to accomplish more with fewer workers
If you’re an electrical engineer and you don’t know much about coding or program software, i’m sorry to say, there is still much for you to learn. The world has gone so advanced for you not to know a thing about programming robots and so on. I am thrilled to share a few concept on what you may enjoy on your journey to the automation world. things like;
- Providing some key intervention for quick wins incase if the robotic machine could no longer be operated automatically as designed
- Should be able to automate a system to compensate for a failed system till when the required part be provided
- Automation engineers should be creative enough to bring up creative ideas on how to utilized the companies resources in other to save cost in compliance to the companies standard
- To work hand in hand to increase reliability in equipment and machines
Basic Concept in reliability
The dependability of an equipment relies solely on its reliability which means that the equipment is expected at all time to perform its expected function in a business operation based on specified service conditions. It can thus be furtherly explained that the higher probability of failure of an equipment, the lower the failure of the system. However, in order to improve the reliability of a system many factors must be considered which which include new design conception, use of robust materials in production and equipment handling methods. It is therefore the core responsibility on reliability engineers to ensure the dependability of a piece of equipment in operational services and as well increase the safety situation of the personnel operating the equipment.
What is an automation engineer?
An automation engineer is an engineering expert who improves various manufacturing processes and computer systems by automating specific parts to work independently and automatically. They revise existing technology so it requires less human interaction, and they monitor the performance of the implemented changes.Sometimes, an automation engineer designs entirely new technology to automate a system. Automation engineers can be traditional engineers with physical machines or software engineers with programming languages and computers.Read more:What Is Engineering Automation? (Plus Career Path)
What does an automation engineer do?
The specific duties of an automation engineer vary depending on whether they’re working with machines or computer programs and systems, but the general responsibilities remain the same. These engineers work with engineering teams to develop automation systems. They work alongside other departments to create automation plans that align with business goals. The engineers then lead the implementation of changes or new technology and oversee the quality assurance (QA) process.Here are some more automation engineer job duties:
- Communicating with clients about project requirements
- Identifying opportunities to increase efficiency with automation
- Researching and designing automation technology
- Creating a connection between information inputs, controllers and outputs
- Developing tests and simulations to ensure the systems work as intended
- Establishing monitoring and QA processes
- Investigating defects or errors in the technology
Read more:What Do Engineers Do? Specialties, Roles and Duties
Automation engineer tools
The tools of an automation engineer typically are in one of two categories: software engineering or traditional engineering.Here are some of the primary tools and systems used by software engineers, traditional engineers or both to create automation technology:
Computers
Engineers write and store code on computers, which execute the finished programs. Engineers use desktop or laptop computers to manage and control automation for online services and physical machinery. Some computer components you may use in automation include:
- Safety systems
- Motor controls and drives
- Communication systems
- Human-machine interface (HMI)
Programming languages
Programming languages like Java, C# and Python allow engineers to compose programs that help automate software. Some traditional engineers may also implement programs to monitor their physical systems.
Automated testing software
Both engineers use testing software applications to monitor their systems for bugs, errors and defects that can impede workflow. These programs make testing efficient and quick to enable quicker releases.
Controls
Controls are like intermediaries between inputs and outputs, and it’s how an automated system can assess and respond to specific conditions or situations. They take information from the input and, based on requirements programmed by the engineer, give instructions to the output.
Measurement sensors
Sensors can be physical or software-based, but they work to measure information, called input, that the system sends to the control. The type of sensor depends on what information the control requires to make a decision, like motion, temperature or data.
Actuators
Actuators, or outputs, perform an action when the control instructs them. These can include physical devices like pistons, rotors and software systems that output information, like where a mouse pointer moves on a screen.
Automation engineer skills and qualities
Automation engineers possess many hard and soft skills that help them create reliable automation systems. The basic soft and technical skills required to be an automation engineer include:
Leadership skills
When starting a new automation project, automation engineers may manage an engineering team. Leadership skills are necessary to ensure the new or changed systems work efficiently for the client. The automation engineer can lead their team through client requirements, design plans and implementation. Managing a team well leads to more efficient client outcomes, making this a valuable skill.
Innovation
Automation engineers seek new opportunities to upgrade their automated processes and increase productivity. Understanding recent developments in the field may help you refine your employer’s competitive advantage. They can accomplish this by staying active in engineering networks, noting transforming technologies and seeking new information to improve plans.
Programming abilities
The ability to program is essential for automation engineers to create their systems. This can refer to computer programming, like coding software solutions or programming physical machines, like robotic assembly lines.Either way, programming systems take inputs and create outputs based on specific requirements is a necessary function of automation, as these machines and programs receive minimal manual instruction from humans.
Mechanical knowledge
Mechanical knowledge is typically more relevant for traditional automation engineers who work with physical machinery than for software engineers. Understanding a client’s mechanical systems helps the automation engineer automate the system efficiently. Engineers may also help build, maintain and troubleshoot machines.Related:Highest-Paying Mechanical Engineering Jobs: Mechanical Engineer Salary Information
Problem-solving
Problem-solving assists with the implementation of new systems and maintenance of existing automation to correct any issues that arise. Combining this skill with creative thinking can help you find effective solutions while troubleshooting.
Communication skills
Automation engineers communicate verbally and visually with clients, teammates and partners. Effective communication can help them simplify processes and clarify expectations. Clear communication between the engineer and the client ensures the engineer understands all the project requirements. Additionally, engineers communicate directions and instructions to their teammates and deliver information to and from clients.Writing direct, concise documents can help automation engineers, their teammates and clients understand the complexities of automated systems. When engineers design and implement technology, they write reports and documentation explaining how to use the technology. Detailed, clear reports and documentation ensure the clients are fully aware of their systems and that other engineers can fix, maintain or change the system.Related:How To Improve Communication Skills in the Workplace
Flexibility
While automation engineers use science as a basis for their automated processes, projects may require them to be flexible and devise new solutions rather than following the established procedures. Engineers can use their creative thinking with how they implement their systems and what those systems accomplish, especially when trying to compete with other products in the market.Additionally, if an original plan doesn’t work out, skilled engineers can adapt it to meet the client’s needs.Related: Automation Technician Resume Example (With Tips)
Automation engineer salary and job outlook
The national average salary for an automation engineer is $96,217 per year. There are sometimes opportunities for bonuses depending on your employer’s compensation structure. Your earnings may vary based on your employer, experience, education and location. For the most up-to-date salary information from Indeed, click on the link provided.The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t have exact information on automation engineers, but it has data on mechanical engineers, which can include these engineers. The U.S. BLS projects this role to grow by 2% between 2021 and 2031. Despite this small percentage, you may observe about 17,900 job openings annually.Related:How Much Do Engineers Make? (With Salaries by State)
Educational requirements for automation engineers
Many automation engineer roles require formal education and a license with specific certifications may strengthen your skills.Here are the credentials you can pursue to become an automation engineer:
Bachelor’s degree
Generally, employers prefer candidates with a strong background in science when hiring automation engineers. Attend a college or university to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a science, technology or engineering field. Specific degrees can include:
- Bachelor’s degree in automation
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science
- Bachelor’s degree in process control
- Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering
These undergraduate programs can provide you with the knowledge and skills to perform successfully in your job after graduation. Additionally, consider pursuing an internship with an engineering company while you’re in school to gain hands-on experience with what you learned in the classroom. Here are some topics you may study in your program:
- Robotics
- Computer-aided design (CAD)
- Image processing
- Machine learning
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Process automation
- Programmable logic controllers
- Information technology (IT)
- Electrical principles engineering
- Statistic