25 Automation Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

As automation technology becomes more ubiquitous in the workplace, the role of the automation engineer becomes increasingly important. Automation engineers design, install, and maintain the systems that control machines and processes. They work in a wide range of industries, from automotive manufacturing to food processing.

If you’re looking to land an interview for an automation engineering job, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some common interview questions. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of questions and answers that will help you stand out from the competition.

1. Are you comfortable working with complex systems?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your skills and experience are a good fit for their company. Use examples from previous projects to show that you have what it takes to succeed in this role.

Example: “Absolutely! I have extensive experience working with complex systems. In my current role, I am responsible for automating processes across multiple platforms and technologies. I’m comfortable troubleshooting issues that arise from the complexity of these systems and finding solutions to ensure they run smoothly.

I also have a strong understanding of how different components interact within a system, which allows me to quickly identify any potential problems. My expertise in automation engineering has enabled me to develop efficient solutions that are tailored to each individual system. Furthermore, I’m always looking for ways to improve existing processes and make them more efficient.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for an automation engineer to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Use your answer to highlight some of the most important skills for an automation engineer and explain why they are so important.

Example: “As an automation engineer, I believe the most important skills to have are problem-solving and analytical thinking. Automation engineers must be able to identify problems quickly and develop solutions that are both efficient and effective. It is also essential for automation engineers to have strong communication and collaboration skills in order to work with other teams and stakeholders.

In addition, automation engineers should have a good understanding of programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++. This knowledge allows them to create scripts and programs that automate processes and improve efficiency. Finally, automation engineers need to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in their field so they can apply them to their projects.”

3. How would you go about troubleshooting a system that’s not working properly?

Troubleshooting is an important skill for any engineer to have. Employers ask this question to see if you can use your problem-solving skills to fix issues with their automation systems. In your answer, explain how you would troubleshoot the system and what steps you would take to solve the issue.

Example: “When troubleshooting a system that’s not working properly, I like to start by gathering as much information as possible. This includes understanding the context of the problem and what is expected from the system. Then, I would review any available logs or error messages for clues about potential causes. After that, I would use my technical knowledge to identify potential root causes and develop hypotheses to test. Finally, I would systematically work through each hypothesis to determine which one is causing the issue.

I have extensive experience in automation engineering and understand how systems interact with each other. My ability to think critically and logically allows me to quickly identify problems and come up with solutions. I am confident that I can apply this skill set to help resolve any issues you may encounter.”

4. What is a PLC, and how would you use one in your work as an automation engineer?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the industry and how you apply it. You can use this opportunity to show that you know what PLCs are, but also how they work in an engineering setting.

Example: “A PLC, or Programmable Logic Controller, is a type of computer that is used to control industrial machines and processes. It is designed to be robust and reliable in order to handle the harsh conditions of an industrial environment. As an automation engineer, I would use a PLC to automate tasks such as controlling motors, monitoring sensors, and executing complex logic operations. For example, I could program a PLC to turn on a motor when a certain temperature has been reached, or to open a valve when a pressure threshold has been exceeded. The flexibility of a PLC allows me to create custom solutions for any automation task. In addition, I can also monitor and adjust the system remotely using software tools. This makes it easy to troubleshoot issues and make changes quickly.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to use your engineering skills to solve a problem.

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to your work. Use examples from previous jobs that show your ability to use critical thinking, creativity and innovation to solve problems.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to use my engineering skills to solve a problem at my current job. We were tasked with automating an existing process that was taking too long and causing delays in our workflow. After assessing the situation, I identified several areas where automation could be implemented.

To start, I created a plan of action for how we would go about automating the process. This included mapping out the steps necessary to complete the task, as well as identifying any potential risks or issues that might arise during implementation. Once the plan was approved by management, I began working on the actual automation process.

Using my knowledge of programming languages such as Python and JavaScript, I wrote scripts to automate the process. These scripts allowed us to quickly and accurately execute the tasks without having to manually enter data each time. In addition, I also developed a dashboard to monitor the progress of the automation process, ensuring that it ran smoothly and efficiently.”

6. If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

This question helps the interviewer determine how you plan to get started and what your priorities are. Your answer should include a list of tasks that show you’re ready to start working right away, such as:

Learning about the company’s automation processes Finding out who your manager is Getting acquainted with other employees Explaining your role in the company to others

Example: “If I were to be hired as an Automation Engineer, my priority during the first few weeks on the job would be to get up to speed with the current automation processes and tools in place. This includes familiarizing myself with the existing automation framework, understanding the scope of work that needs to be done, and learning how the team works together.

I also plan to take the time to assess the current state of the automation process and identify areas for improvement. This could include streamlining existing processes, introducing new technologies or techniques, and ensuring that all automation tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. Finally, I will strive to build strong relationships with the other members of the engineering team so that we can collaborate more effectively.”

7. What would you do if you were given a project that required you to use programming languages you weren’t familiar with?

This question can help the interviewer determine how adaptable you are to new challenges. Use your answer to highlight your ability to learn quickly and apply what you’ve learned to solve problems.

Example: “If I were given a project that required me to use programming languages I wasn’t familiar with, the first thing I would do is research and learn as much as possible about the language. I understand the importance of being able to quickly adapt to new technologies and am confident in my ability to pick up on new concepts quickly.

I have extensive experience in automation engineering and have worked with many different programming languages before. This has enabled me to develop an understanding of how various languages work and their similarities and differences. As such, I feel comfortable learning any language if given enough time.

In addition, I’m also not afraid to ask questions or seek help when needed. I believe it’s important to be open to feedback and guidance from others in order to ensure success. I’m confident that with the right resources and support, I can become proficient in any programming language necessary for a project.”

8. How well do you communicate with other engineers and technicians?

Communication is an important skill for any engineer, and the interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to work with others. Use examples from past experiences where you successfully communicated with other engineers or technicians to show that you can collaborate effectively on a project.

Example: “I have extensive experience in communicating with other engineers and technicians. I understand the importance of effective communication when it comes to successful automation projects. In my current role, I am responsible for providing technical support to a team of engineers and technicians. I ensure that everyone is on the same page by clearly explaining tasks and expectations. I also provide feedback and guidance throughout the process so that we can work together efficiently and effectively.

In addition, I make sure to keep open lines of communication between all parties involved. This includes regular check-ins during project development as well as post-project reviews. I strive to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions. By doing this, I’m able to foster collaboration and build strong relationships with my colleagues.”

9. Do you have any experience with project management?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with managing a team and how you might fit into their organization. If you have previous project management experience, share it in relation to your role as an automation engineer. If you don’t have any direct experience, you can discuss your ability to work independently and collaborate with others on projects.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience with project management. In my current role as an Automation Engineer, I am responsible for managing multiple projects at once and ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget. I have a proven track record of success in this area, having successfully managed the development and implementation of automation systems for several large-scale projects. I’m also well-versed in using various project management tools such as Microsoft Project and Trello to help me stay organized and keep track of progress. Furthermore, I’m comfortable working with stakeholders from all levels of the organization to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that projects remain on schedule.”

10. When is it appropriate to use a bypass switch?

A bypass switch is a common tool used by automation engineers. The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your knowledge of when and how to use a bypass switch in an industrial setting. In your answer, try to explain the purpose of a bypass switch and provide examples of when you have used one in past projects.

Example: “A bypass switch is a useful tool for automation engineers, as it allows us to quickly and easily bypass certain parts of an automated system. This can be especially helpful when troubleshooting or performing maintenance on the system.

In general, I believe that a bypass switch should only be used when absolutely necessary. It’s important to remember that bypassing part of a system could potentially lead to unexpected results, so it’s best to use this feature sparingly. That being said, there are certainly times when using a bypass switch makes sense. For example, if a specific component in the system is malfunctioning, then temporarily bypassing it may allow us to continue operating the system while we investigate and repair the issue.”

11. We want to improve our production process. What are some strategies you would use to do this?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to make improvements. When answering this question, it can be helpful to give examples of how you would improve production processes in the past.

Example: “I believe that automation is the key to improving production processes. As an Automation Engineer, I have experience in developing automated solutions to improve efficiency and accuracy of production processes.

My strategies would include using robotic process automation (RPA) to automate repetitive tasks, such as data entry or document processing. This would reduce manual labor costs and increase productivity. In addition, I could use machine learning algorithms to identify patterns in production data and suggest improvements for more efficient operations. Finally, I could develop custom software applications to streamline existing processes and integrate them with other systems for better coordination and communication.”

12. Describe your experience with using P&ID diagrams.

P&ID diagrams are a common tool used by automation engineers. This question allows you to demonstrate your experience with using this important tool and how it relates to the job. If you have previous experience using P&ID diagrams, describe what they are and how you use them in your work. If you don’t have any experience with P&ID diagrams, explain that you’re familiar with what they are and would be willing to learn more about them if necessary.

Example: “I have extensive experience using P&ID diagrams in my work as an Automation Engineer. I have used them to develop automation systems for a variety of applications, including process control and monitoring.

P&ID diagrams are incredibly useful for understanding the flow of materials through a system, allowing me to identify potential problems or areas of improvement. I am familiar with all the symbols and conventions used in these diagrams, which helps me quickly interpret the information they contain.

In addition, I have experience creating custom P&ID diagrams from scratch. This involves researching the system, gathering data, and then translating it into a visual representation that is easy to understand. My ability to create accurate diagrams has been essential in helping clients visualize their processes and make informed decisions about how to improve them.”

13. What makes you stand out from other candidates who are applying for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Try to focus on what makes you unique rather than listing all of your credentials.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other candidates applying for this job. I have over five years of experience in automation engineering, with a proven track record of success in developing automated systems that increase efficiency and reduce costs. My expertise includes programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++, as well as working with various automation frameworks like Robot Framework, Selenium, and Appium.

In addition to my technical skills, I am also highly organized and detail-oriented. I take pride in delivering projects on time and within budget while ensuring the highest quality standards are met. I am also an excellent communicator who is able to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Finally, I am passionate about learning new technologies and staying up to date with industry trends.”

14. Which industries do you think automation engineers will become more important in the future?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your knowledge about automation engineering and how it’s changing. Use examples from industries you’ve worked in or ones that are growing to show your understanding of where automation is headed.

Example: “I believe automation engineers will become increasingly important in a variety of industries. Automation technology is becoming more advanced and cost-effective, making it an attractive option for many businesses. In the manufacturing industry, automation can help reduce costs by streamlining processes and eliminating manual labor. Automation also has potential to improve safety and efficiency in industrial settings, as well as increase product quality.

In the healthcare sector, automation can be used to automate administrative tasks such as billing and scheduling, freeing up time for medical professionals to focus on patient care. Automation can also be used to monitor patients remotely, allowing them to receive treatment without having to travel to a hospital or clinic. Finally, automation can be used to analyze large amounts of data quickly and accurately, helping doctors make better decisions about treatments.”

15. What do you think the biggest challenge is in becoming a more efficient and effective automation engineer?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your thought process and how you approach challenges. Your answer should show that you are willing to work hard and learn new things in order to improve as an engineer.

Example: “I believe the biggest challenge in becoming a more efficient and effective automation engineer is staying up-to-date with the latest technologies. As technology advances, so do the tools used for automation engineering. It’s important to stay abreast of new developments and trends in order to ensure that our solutions are as efficient and effective as possible.

In addition, it can be difficult to identify which processes should be automated and which ones should remain manual. Automation engineers need to have an understanding of the business process and objectives in order to determine which tasks will benefit most from automation. This requires careful analysis and research in order to make the best decisions.”

16. How often do you update your skills and knowledge as an automation engineer?

This question can help interviewers understand how you stay up to date with the latest technology and trends in your industry. You can answer this question by explaining what resources you use to learn about new developments, which may include online courses, conferences or books.

Example: “As an automation engineer, I understand the importance of staying up to date with the latest technologies and trends. To ensure that my skills remain relevant in this ever-evolving field, I make it a priority to continuously update my knowledge and stay ahead of the curve.

I regularly attend industry conferences, seminars, and webinars to learn about new tools and techniques. I also read technical blogs and articles to keep myself informed on the latest advancements in automation engineering. Furthermore, I am actively involved in online forums and communities where I can discuss ideas and solutions with other professionals in the field. Finally, I take advantage of any available training opportunities offered by my employer or through external sources.

By taking these steps, I am able to maintain a high level of expertise as an automation engineer and ensure that I have the necessary skills to meet the demands of the job.”

17. There is a bug in the code for a new automated system you’ve been working on. What is your process for fixing it?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach problem-solving and your ability to work independently. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for identifying, diagnosing and fixing bugs in code.

Example: “When it comes to fixing bugs in code, my process is quite straightforward. First, I will thoroughly analyze the code and identify the exact source of the bug. Once I have identified the issue, I will then create a detailed plan for how to fix it. This plan includes researching any potential solutions, testing them out, and making sure they are compatible with the existing system. Finally, once I am confident that I have found the correct solution, I will implement it into the code and test it thoroughly to ensure that the bug has been fixed. Throughout this entire process, I also make sure to document all changes made so that future maintenance can be done more efficiently.”

18. What type of automation software do you have experience with?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of expertise with automation software. They may ask you about specific programs to see if you have experience using them and how well you know them. You can answer this question by naming several automation software programs that you’ve used in previous roles.

Example: “I have extensive experience with automation software, and I’m familiar with a variety of different programs. I’ve worked extensively with Selenium WebDriver for web automation testing, as well as Robot Framework for test automation. I also have experience working with Jenkins to create automated build pipelines, and I’m comfortable using Ansible for configuration management tasks. Finally, I’m proficient in Python scripting and can use it to automate many different types of processes.”

19. How would you go about creating a new automated process from scratch?

This question can give the interviewer insight into your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to a variety of situations. Use examples from past projects where you had to create an automation process from scratch, or explain what steps you would take if you were starting from scratch.

Example: “When creating a new automated process from scratch, the first step is to understand the existing processes and how they are currently being done. This involves gathering information from stakeholders, researching current systems and procedures, and analyzing any data that may be available. Once I have a good understanding of the current process, I can then start to develop an automation plan.

The next step in my process would be to identify what tasks need to be automated and create a timeline for when each task should be completed. I would also consider which tools or technologies could be used to automate these tasks. Finally, I would design and implement the automated process, making sure to test it thoroughly before deploying it into production. Throughout this process, I would ensure that all stakeholders are kept informed and consulted on any changes or decisions made.”

20. Are you comfortable working with different types of hardware and software to configure systems?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with different types of hardware and software. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate for this role.

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience working with different types of hardware and software to configure systems. In my current role, I’ve worked on projects that involve configuring a variety of devices such as routers, switches, firewalls, servers, and storage solutions. I’m familiar with many operating systems including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. I also have experience writing scripts in languages like Python, Bash, and PowerShell to automate processes.”

21. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue with an automated system that was difficult to diagnose.

This question can allow you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work through challenging situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you had to troubleshoot an issue with an automated system and the steps you took to solve the problem.

Example: “At my previous job, I was working on a project that required me to create a program that would automate several different processes within a company’s website. After completing the initial programming of the website, I noticed that some of the functions I programmed weren’t functioning properly. I spent time reviewing the code I wrote for the website and found that there were several errors in the coding. Once I fixed these issues, the automation process worked as expected.”

Example: “I recently had to troubleshoot an issue with an automated system that was difficult to diagnose. The system in question was a web-based application, and the problem was that it was not responding properly when certain actions were taken by users. After doing some initial investigation, I realized that there was a bug in the code that was causing the issue.

To solve this problem, I first identified the root cause of the issue by going through the code and pinpointing where the bug was located. Once I had identified the source of the problem, I then worked on finding a solution. To do this, I tested various solutions until I found one that solved the issue. Finally, I implemented the fix and verified that the issue was resolved.”

22. Do you have any experience with designing and building prototypes for automated systems?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with designing and building prototypes for automated systems. Use examples from previous projects to highlight your skills in this area, such as how you developed a prototype or built an initial model of an automation system.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience with designing and building prototypes for automated systems. In my current role as an Automation Engineer, I am responsible for developing a variety of automation solutions to streamline processes and increase efficiency. As part of this, I design and build prototypes for automated systems that are tailored to the specific needs of each project.

I have extensive knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C++, Java, and JavaScript. This allows me to create custom scripts and programs that can be used to automate tasks. My experience also includes working with various hardware components such as sensors, motors, and controllers. I am comfortable troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the development process.”

23. What methods do you use to ensure the accuracy of your work?

Accuracy is a critical component of any automation project. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary skills and experience to complete your work accurately. In your answer, explain how you ensure accuracy in your projects. You can also mention specific methods or tools that you use to do so.

Example: “I take accuracy very seriously in my work as an Automation Engineer. To ensure the accuracy of my work, I use a combination of methods. First, I always double-check my code to make sure that it is correct and free from any errors. I also utilize automated testing tools to test my code for any potential issues before deploying it. Finally, I review my work with other engineers on my team to get their feedback and make sure everything is working correctly. This helps me catch any mistakes or oversights that I may have missed. By using these methods, I am confident that the results of my work are accurate and reliable.”

24. What is your experience with debugging code written by other developers?

Debugging is a common task for automation engineers, and your interviewer may ask this question to learn more about how you approach solving problems with code. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate with other team members.

Example: “I have extensive experience debugging code written by other developers. I understand the importance of being able to quickly identify and resolve issues in order to ensure that applications are running smoothly. My approach is to first read through the code line-by-line, looking for any errors or inconsistencies. Once I’ve identified a potential bug, I then use various tools such as debuggers and log files to further investigate the issue. Finally, I will work with the developer who wrote the code to come up with an effective solution. This process has enabled me to successfully debug complex problems in a timely manner.”

25. Have you ever been in charge of training or mentoring other engineers on using automation tools?

This question can help the interviewer understand your leadership skills and how you might interact with other team members. Use examples from past training experiences to highlight your communication, organization and time management skills.

Example: “Yes, I have been in charge of training and mentoring other engineers on using automation tools. In my current role as an Automation Engineer, I lead a team of junior engineers who are new to the field. I provide them with guidance on how to use various automation tools, such as scripting languages like Python or Bash, configuration management tools like Ansible and Puppet, and containerization technologies like Docker.

I also mentor them on best practices for writing code that is efficient, secure, and maintainable. My goal is to ensure that they become proficient in using these tools so that they can be productive members of our engineering team. I take great pride in helping others learn and grow their skillset, and I am confident that I can bring this same enthusiasm and dedication to your organization.”