15 Automation Technician Skills for Your Career and Resume

Automation technicians work with automated machines and equipment to ensure that they are functioning properly. They use a variety of skills to troubleshoot problems, repair machines and maintain equipment. Automation technicians need to have strong technical skills and be able to work independently. If you’re interested in becoming an automation technician, learning about the necessary skills for this position can help you get started.

Project Management

Automation technicians use project management skills to track and monitor multiple projects simultaneously. They also use these skills to create schedules, set deadlines and delegate tasks among other technicians. This is an important skill for automation technicians because it allows them to manage their time effectively and ensure that they meet the needs of their employers and clients.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of your work and tools. As an automation technician, you may need to use several different software programs for various tasks. It’s important to be able to find what you’re looking for quickly so that you can complete projects on time. You also need to know where all of your equipment is located so that you don’t lose any tools or damage them by storing them incorrectly.

Technical Writing

Automation technicians use technical writing skills to create and interpret machine control programs. They also use these skills when they document their work for other technicians, engineers or managers. Strong technical writing skills allow automation technicians to explain complex processes in a way that others can understand them.

HMI

HMI, or human-machine interface, is the software that allows an automation technician to program and control machinery. Having knowledge of HMI can help you understand how to use it in your work environment. It’s also important for troubleshooting purposes because if a machine isn’t working properly, you may need to examine the HMI system to find the source of the problem.

Attention to Detail

Automation technicians must be able to follow detailed instructions and ensure that all of the necessary components are installed correctly. This requires attention to detail, which involves being precise when following directions or performing tasks. Attention to detail is also important for ensuring that machinery functions properly after it’s been installed.

SCADA

SCADA is a software system that automates the process of collecting data from sensors and other equipment. It’s important for an automation technician to understand how SCADA works so they can troubleshoot issues with it, program new systems and install new hardware. Understanding how SCADA works also allows you to identify when existing systems need updating or upgrading.

Flexibility

Automation technicians must be flexible in their work, as they may need to adapt to changing circumstances. For example, if a machine isn’t functioning properly, an automation technician might have to troubleshoot the issue and find a solution that works with the existing equipment. This requires flexibility because the technician might have to change their approach several times before finding a solution.

Automated Manufacturing Systems

Automation technicians use automation systems to increase productivity and reduce errors in manufacturing processes. They may design, build and program automated machinery that performs repetitive tasks automatically. This requires knowledge of the various types of automation systems available and how they work. It also requires an understanding of the software used to program these machines so you can troubleshoot any issues that arise.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information in a way that others can understand. As an automation technician, you may need to communicate with other technicians and engineers who have different levels of technical knowledge than you do. You also might be communicating with customers about their machines’ functions or explaining how to operate new equipment.

CAD

Computer-aided design, or CAD, is a skill that automation technicians use to create and modify technical drawings. This can include creating diagrams of electrical circuits, mechanical systems and other aspects of industrial machinery. Understanding how to use CAD software can help you communicate your designs clearly to others in the workplace. It can also be useful for finding employment as an automation technician because employers often require applicants to submit their own technical drawings when applying for a job.

Analytical Skills

Automation technicians use their analytical skills to troubleshoot and solve complex problems. They analyze the cause of a problem, evaluate potential solutions and determine which solution is most effective. Analytical skills are also necessary for reading and understanding technical manuals and schematics.

Robotics

Robotics is the ability to program and operate robotic machines. This skill can help you automate processes in factories, construction sites or other environments where automation may be useful. You can also use robotics for fun by building your own robots at home. Many companies offer courses on how to build and program robots, so it’s a good idea to consider taking one if you’re interested in this field.

Industrial Maintenance

Automation technicians use industrial maintenance skills to repair and maintain the machinery they work with. This includes understanding how machines function, what parts they contain and how those parts interact with one another. It also involves knowing how to identify common machine malfunctions and how to fix them.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is the ability to identify and solve problems. Automation technicians use troubleshooting skills when they’re working with machinery, software or electrical systems. They may need to find solutions for issues like a machine that isn’t operating properly or an electrical system that has short-circuited. Troubleshooting can also help them determine what caused a problem so they can fix it permanently.

PLC

PLC, or programmable logic controller, is a computer system that automates machinery. It’s important for automation technicians to understand how PLC works so they can troubleshoot and repair machines with the right tools. Understanding PLC also allows them to work with other automation professionals who use this technology in their jobs.

How Can I Learn These Automation Technician Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the Automation Technician skills that are listed above. One way would be to find a job in the field of automation and work your way up the ladder. Another way would be to take some courses at a local community college or online that would teach you the basics of automation. Once you have a basic understanding of automation, you can then start to look for internships or apprenticeships that will give you more hands-on experience.