How to Be Electrical Automation Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 9, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increasing demand for automation in the electrical engineering industry is causing a corresponding need for experienced electrical automation engineers. These professionals are responsible for designing and programming machines and systems that utilize electrical components to automate tasks and processes. They must have a strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, and be able to develop and troubleshoot complex control systems.

they must be able to work with a variety of computer programming languages, such as C++, Visual Basic, and Java. With their knowledge and expertise, these professionals help ensure that electrical automation systems are reliable and efficient, leading to improved productivity and cost savings.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelors Degree. Automation engineers need to have a bachelors degree in an engineering discipline, like electrical engineering or automation engineering. This degree program will provide you with the fundamentals of automation principles, electronics, electrical engineering, and computer programming.
Gather Work Experience. It is important to gain some experience in the automation engineering field before pursuing a career in this particular field. You can do this by taking internships or working as an entry-level engineer in a related field.
Obtain Professional Certification. It is advisable to obtain professional certification in automation engineering in order to increase your chances of finding employment. Professional certifications demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills for the job.
Take Additional Courses. Consider taking additional courses to further your education in automation engineering. This will give you a competitive edge when it comes to applying for jobs.
Stay Up-to-Date With the Latest Technology. Automation engineers need to stay up-to-date with the latest technology in order to provide the best solutions for their clients. Make sure to keep up with the newest advances by attending conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field.

To become a skilled and qualified Electrical Automation Engineer, one must gain a deep understanding of the field and stay up to date on the latest technologies. An Electrical Automation Engineer should have a strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, as well as an in-depth understanding of automation systems, programming languages and software. They should also possess strong problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as a high level of attention to detail.

they need to be highly organized and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, in order to be able to effectively collaborate with other engineers. To gain the necessary experience, Electrical Automation Engineers should get involved in industry associations and organizations, attend conferences and seminars, and participate in continuing education programs. Through staying up to date on advances in the field, and through obtaining certifications and licenses, an Electrical Automation Engineer can become skilled and qualified in their profession.

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Job Description

Design and develop electrical control systems, including power distribution systems, machine control systems, embedded controllers, sensors, and communication networks.
Maintain and troubleshoot existing electrical automation systems.
Develop electrical schematics and wiring diagrams to support automation systems.
Program, configure, and validate automation systems using programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other industrial control devices.
Perform tests to ensure that the automation system is functioning properly and meets safety standards.
Monitor and adjust system parameters (e. g. , speed, accuracy, temperature) to meet desired outcome.
Modify existing automation systems to improve performance and efficiency.
Analyze and interpret data from sensors and other monitoring systems to diagnose system performance issues.
Collaborate with other engineers to ensure smooth integration of automation systems with other facets of the production process.
Provide training and technical support to engineering staff, operators, and maintenance personnel.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of electrical engineering principles and concepts
Technical aptitude with advanced understanding of electrical systems and components
Knowledge of automation systems and programming
Experience in designing, commissioning and troubleshooting automation systems
Understanding of PLCs, HMIs, motion control devices and other automation components
Ability to read electrical diagrams and schematics
Proficiency in the use of AutoCAD
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

As an Electrical Automation Engineer, having a strong understanding of electrical engineering principles and their application to automation systems is essential. This includes knowledge of circuit design, power systems, control systems, electronics and instrumentation. Understanding the fundamentals of computer programming and software development is also critical, as automation systems are often built from both hardware and software components.

being able to troubleshoot problems and devise creative solutions is paramount for any automation engineer. Having good communication skills is also important for any Electrical Automation Engineer, as they need to be able to communicate efficiently with both technical and non-technical personnel in order to ensure successful implementation of automation systems. Lastly, staying up-to-date with the latest trends and advances in the field is key to success in this profession.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in electrical automation engineering?
How familiar are you with the National Electric Code?
What experience do you have in programming PLCs and other automation systems?
How do you troubleshoot and debug problems with automation systems?
What techniques do you use to ensure the efficient and effective operation of automation systems?
What strategies do you use to keep up with the latest technology in the automation field?
How do you ensure that automation systems comply with safety regulations?
Can you describe a recent project where you successfully implemented an automation system?
How have you minimized downtime while performing maintenance on automation systems?
Do you have experience working with Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)?

Common Tools in Industry

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC). PLCs are special computers used in industrial and commercial settings to control and monitor machines and processes. For example, a PLC can control a heater, a motor, or a conveyor belt.
Human Machine Interface (HMI). An HMI is a device that allows users to interact with a machine or system by providing a graphical interface. For example, an HMI can display the temperature of a process or the speed of a motor.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). SCADA systems are used to remotely monitor and control large-scale data-driven processes. For example, a SCADA system can be used to monitor the temperature of an industrial facility from a remote location.
Computer Aided Design (CAD). CAD software is used to design and model components for industrial and commercial applications. For example, CAD software can be used to design a robotic arm or an automated production line.
Industrial Automation Software. Industrial automation software is used to automate tasks and processes in industrial environments. For example, industrial automation software can be used to automate the production of a widget on an assembly line.
Network Protocols. Network protocols are used to communicate between devices on an industrial network. For example, industrial networks often use the Ethernet protocol to communicate between devices.
Robotics Software. Robotics software is used to control robots in industrial and commercial settings. For example, robotics software can be used to program and control a robotic arm on an assembly line.
Machine Vision Systems. Machine vision systems are used to detect objects in an industrial environment. For example, a machine vision system can be used to detect faulty parts on an assembly line.
Industrial Internet Of Things (IIoT). IIoT systems allow devices to communicate over the internet for monitoring and control purposes. For example, an IIoT system can be used to monitor the temperature of an industrial facility from a remote location.

Professional Organizations to Know

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Automation Federation
International Society of Automation (ISA)
American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)
Control System Integrators Association (CSIA)
The Robotics Industries Association (RIA)
International Federation of Robotics (IFR)
American Automation and Information Association (AAIA)
Association for Advancing Automation (A3)
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)

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Common Important Terms

PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a specialized computer used for industrial automation, typically to automate a machine or process. It reads inputs from sensors and controls outputs such as motors, valves and relays.
HMI (Human Machine Interface). Human Machine Interface (HMI) is a type of user interface that allows humans to interact with machines. HMI systems are used to control and monitor equipment and processes in industries such as automotive, aerospace, oil & gas, and manufacturing.
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition). Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) is a type of software used to monitor and control industrial processes. It is commonly used in power plants, oil refineries, chemical plants and other industrial sites.
Robotics. Robotics is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, operation and application of robots. Robots are machines that are capable of performing tasks autonomously or semi-autonomously.
Automation. Automation is the process of using technology to automate tasks and processes. Automation can be used to reduce manual labor, improve efficiency and accuracy, and increase consistency.
CNC (Computer Numerical Control). Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is a type of automated machinery used in manufacturing. CNC machines are programmed to carry out a series of precise operations, such as cutting, drilling and milling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Electrical Automation Engineering?

Electrical Automation Engineering is a field of engineering that focuses on the development, installation and maintenance of automated systems used to control and monitor industrial production processes.

What type of tasks do Electrical Automation Engineers perform?

Electrical Automation Engineers typically perform tasks such as programming controllers, designing and testing automation systems, setting up networks and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues.

What skills are required for Electrical Automation Engineering?

Electrical Automation Engineers require a strong background in mathematics, physics, computer science and engineering. They must also be knowledgeable in areas such as electrical schematics, robotics, instrumentation and control systems.

What type of education is needed to become an Electrical Automation Engineer?

To become an Electrical Automation Engineer, most employers require at least a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering or a related field.