Salary report · US · 2026
Automation Engineer Salary
The average automation engineer salary is $86,556 per year in the United States in 2026. Base pay runs from $66,000 at the 10th percentile to $121,000 at the 90th, with a median of $87,000. Bonuses add $1,000–$13,000, putting total pay between roughly $64,000 and $124,000.
Definition & distribution
What is the average automation engineer salary?
The average base salary for an Automation Engineer in 2026 is $86,556 per year. Salaries typically range from $64,000 to $124,000 depending on experience and skill level.
The 10th percentile earns $66,000, while the 90th percentile reaches $121,000, indicating a significant spread in earnings. This suggests that while many Automation Engineers earn around the median of $87,000, there are opportunities for higher compensation based on experience and expertise.
Known limitations. The data is based on a sample size of 1,225 profiles, and actual salaries may vary based on location and specific employer practices.
Pay components
How is automation engineer total pay structured?
Compensation for Automation Engineers may include base salary and bonuses.
| Component | Low | High | Reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base salary | $66,000 | $121,000 | Dense around the $87k median |
| Annual bonus | $1,000 | $13,000 | Up to ~11% of top-end base |
| Total pay | $64,000 | $124,000 | Base plus reported bonus |
Pay by experience
How does experience change a automation engineer salary?
As Automation Engineers gain experience, their salaries typically increase. Entry-level positions may start lower, but skilled professionals can command significantly higher pay.
- 01
Entry-Level Automation Engineer
Typically earns around $66,000 per year.
- 02
Mid-Level Automation Engineer
Can expect to earn approximately $87,000 annually.
- 03
Senior Automation Engineer
May earn up to $121,000 per year or more.
Skills
Which skills affect a automation engineer salary?
Proficiency in specific skills can significantly impact salary potential.
- 01
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) — the premium tier
Expertise in PLCs can lead to higher salary offers.
- 02
Automation Scripting — the premium tier
Strong scripting skills often result in increased pay.
- 03
Project Management — the promotion tier
Demonstrating project management capabilities can position you for advancement.
Check your pay
Where does your salary fall?
Use our salary calculator to see where you stand in the pay spectrum.
Raising your pay
How can automation engineers increase their salary?
There are several strategies to enhance your earning potential.
- 01
Pursue Advanced Certifications
Obtaining relevant certifications can boost your marketability and salary.
- 02
Gain Specialized Experience
Working on high-demand technologies can lead to higher compensation.
- 03
Negotiate Your Salary
Effective negotiation can increase your starting salary or future raises.
FAQ
Automation Engineer salary: FAQ
The highest reported salary is $121,000.
The lowest reported salary is $66,000.
Consider pursuing advanced certifications and gaining specialized experience.
Yes, bonuses can range from $1,000 to $13,000.
The data is based on 1,225 profiles, providing a reasonable estimate of market salaries.
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