Career Guide 2026
Your Complete Guide to Becoming an Automation Engineer
Automation engineers design, programme, and maintain the control systems that keep factories, water-treatment plants, and energy facilities running. It is one of the fastest-growing and best-paid engineering disciplines in the UK, and the skills gap means qualified professionals are in extremely high demand.
The Role
What Is an Automation Engineer?
An automation engineer is responsible for designing, programming, testing, and maintaining automated control systems used in industrial environments. These professionals work with Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and industrial networking equipment to ensure that manufacturing processes, utilities, and infrastructure operate safely and efficiently.
In practice, the day-to-day work can range from writing PLC ladder-logic programmes for a new production line to troubleshooting a SCADA communication fault on a live water-treatment plant. Automation engineers typically collaborate with electrical engineers, process engineers, and operations teams. The role requires both strong technical skills and the ability to work under pressure, since downtime on critical infrastructure can be extremely costly.
Career Path
From Beginner to Senior Engineer
Foundation
Engineering degree OR relevant industry experience in electrical, mechanical, or manufacturing roles.
PLC / SCADA Training
5-day intensive course with online recorded sessions at EDWartens covering Siemens TIA Portal, SCADA configuration, and hands-on labs.
First Role
Junior Controls Engineer or PLC Programmer. Typical salary: £28,000 – £35,000.
Mid-Level
Automation Engineer managing full control-system projects. Typical salary: £40,000 – £55,000.
Senior / Lead
Lead Controls Engineer or SCADA Architect overseeing multi-site deployments. Typical salary: £55,000 – £75,000+.
Skills You Need
Core Skills for Automation Engineers
PLC Programming
Siemens, Allen-Bradley
SCADA / HMI
Configuration & design
Electrical Schematics
Reading & creating
Industrial Networking
Profinet, EtherNet/IP
Process Control
PID, instrumentation
Troubleshooting
Fault-finding & diagnostics
Salary Data
What Automation Engineers Earn in 2026
UK salaries for automation and controls engineers, based on industry data from recruitment platforms and employer surveys.
| Level | Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Junior PLC Programmer | £28,000 – £35,000 |
| Mid | Automation Engineer | £40,000 – £55,000 |
| Senior | Lead Controls Engineer | £55,000 – £75,000 |
| Specialist | SCADA Architect | £65,000 – £85,000 |
Industries Hiring
Sectors That Need Automation Engineers
Water & Wastewater
Oil & Gas
Food & Beverage
Pharmaceuticals
Automotive
Energy & Renewables
Your Fast Track
How EDWartens Gets You There
EDWartens offers CPD-accredited, intensive PLC and SCADA training that takes you from beginner to job-ready with just 5 days of intensive training plus online sessions. Our Professional Module covers Siemens TIA Portal, FactoryIO 3D simulation, industrial networking, and real-world troubleshooting. Training is delivered at our Milton Keynes centre and online, with small batch sizes of 12 students maximum to ensure hands-on attention.
Course Length
5 Days + Online
Batch Size
Max 12
Job Placement
Support Included
Get Started
Ready to Start Your Automation Career?
Fill in the form below and our team will get back to you within 24 hours with course details, upcoming batch dates, and funding options.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an automation engineer?
With a relevant engineering background, you can complete PLC and SCADA training in just 5 intensive days plus online recorded sessions and begin applying for junior roles immediately. Most graduates secure their first controls-engineering position within 2 to 4 months of completing training. Career progression to mid-level typically takes 2 to 3 years of hands-on experience.
Do I need a university degree to work in automation?
A degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering is helpful but not strictly required. Many successful automation engineers enter the field through apprenticeships, HNDs, or by transitioning from electrician or maintenance-technician roles. What employers value most is practical PLC programming ability and familiarity with industrial control systems.
What programming languages do PLC engineers use?
PLC programming uses the IEC 61131-3 standard languages: Ladder Diagram (LD), Structured Text (ST), Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), and Sequential Function Chart (SFC). Ladder Diagram remains the most widely used in UK industry, while Structured Text is growing in popularity for complex logic. EDWartens courses cover all five languages.
Is there a shortage of automation engineers in the UK?
Yes. The UK engineering sector faces a well-documented skills gap, with the Institution of Engineering and Technology estimating the country needs tens of thousands of additional engineers each year. Automation and controls engineering roles are among the hardest to fill, making it an excellent career choice with strong job security and competitive salaries.
What is the earning potential for automation engineers?
Entry-level PLC programmers typically earn between £28,000 and £35,000. With 3 to 5 years of experience, automation engineers command £40,000 to £55,000. Senior and specialist roles in sectors like oil and gas or water treatment can exceed £75,000, especially in London and the South East where a regional premium applies.