Automation Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
Automation Engineer jobs in South Carolina are concentrated in the Greenville-Spartanburg corridor, Charleston, and Columbia, where manufacturers like BMW Manufacturing, Michelin, and Bosch have built out large production and engineering operations. Demand runs from entry-level controls engineers to senior systems integrators, with the strongest focus on PLC programming, robotics integration, and industrial networking. South Carolina's deep manufacturing base keeps this one of the more active markets in the Southeast for automation talent. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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DESCRIPTION
About the Role:
As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and technical support. Your expertise will be essential in troubleshooting complex control systems, analyzing performance metrics, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You'll mentor junior engineers and lead cross-functional teams to optimize material handling equipment (MHE) systems, implement innovative projects, and develop system design improvements to enhance site throughput. You'll work with state-of-the-art technology, including conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, and SCADA devices and programs. Through your technical leadership and design optimization efforts, you'll directly contribute to ensuring our customers receive their orders with Amazon's signature speed and accuracy while building team capabilities and driving operational excellence.
What Do We Offer?
Amazon offers competitive compensation packages including comprehensive healthcare benefits starting on Day 1, matching 401(k) program, and up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave. But wait, there’s more: We provide lightweight fire-resistant daily wear and composite toe safety shoes for your safety!
Key job responsibilities
Key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- You will apply Subject Matter Expertise (SME) on troubleshooting and dive deeps for engineering issues, supporting automation engineers to investigate the root cause and planning actions to eliminate/mitigate the downtime of critical assets
- You will collaborate with building Operations, Operations Engineering teams, FC Start-up Team, AFT Software teams, ACES team, and Safety to support MHE systems optimization and project implementation
- You will understand, maintain and troubleshoot material handling control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems
- You will monitor MHE metrics and partner with maintenance/operations to address system performance issues and provide analysis across all operations
- You will provide escalation support to automation engineers, during and after business hours, troubleshooting locally and remotely, to ensure that all hardware or controls software within the building is repaired on time
- You must be able to move up to 49lbs, stand and walk during shifts lasting up to 12 hours, climb ladders and gangways safely and without limitation, as well as perform regular bending, lifting, stretching, and reaching both below the waist and above the head
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 4+ years of PLC programming or automation engineering experience
- Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays
- 4+ years of process or production environment related PLC-controlled automation and issue diagnosis experience
- 4+ years of Siemens, Allen-Bradley or Codesys Ladder Logic and structure programming experience
- 4+ years of robotics work cells and control systems experience
- 4+ years of electrical theory, robotics, controls components, and automated equipment experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent
- Master's degree, or Six Sigma Black Belt certification
- Experience leading controls in manufacturing or complex industrial environments
- Experience identifying, maintaining, troubleshooting, and modifying Motor Controls including motor starters, Variable Frequency Drives, DC drives, and standard electrical components
- Experience interpreting and modifying mechanical and electrical drawings
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, SC, Fountain Inn - 114,000.00 - 148,200.00 USD annually
DESCRIPTION
About the Role:
As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and technical support. Your expertise will be essential in troubleshooting complex control systems, analyzing performance metrics, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. You'll mentor junior engineers and lead cross-functional teams to optimize material handling equipment (MHE) systems, implement innovative projects, and develop system design improvements to enhance site throughput. You'll work with state-of-the-art technology, including conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, and SCADA devices and programs. Through your technical leadership and design optimization efforts, you'll directly contribute to ensuring our customers receive their orders with Amazon's signature speed and accuracy while building team capabilities and driving operational excellence.
What Do We Offer?
Amazon offers competitive compensation packages including comprehensive healthcare benefits starting on Day 1, matching 401(k) program, and up to 20 weeks of paid parental leave. But wait, there’s more: We provide lightweight fire-resistant daily wear and composite toe safety shoes for your safety!
Key job responsibilities
Key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- You will apply Subject Matter Expertise (SME) on troubleshooting and dive deeps for engineering issues, supporting automation engineers to investigate the root cause and planning actions to eliminate/mitigate the downtime of critical assets
- You will collaborate with building Operations, Operations Engineering teams, FC Start-up Team, AFT Software teams, ACES team, and Safety to support MHE systems optimization and project implementation
- You will understand, maintain and troubleshoot material handling control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems
- You will monitor MHE metrics and partner with maintenance/operations to address system performance issues and provide analysis across all operations
- You will provide escalation support to automation engineers, during and after business hours, troubleshooting locally and remotely, to ensure that all hardware or controls software within the building is repaired on time
- You must be able to move up to 49lbs, stand and walk during shifts lasting up to 12 hours, climb ladders and gangways safely and without limitation, as well as perform regular bending, lifting, stretching, and reaching both below the waist and above the head
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 4+ years of PLC programming or automation engineering experience
- Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays
- 4+ years of process or production environment related PLC-controlled automation and issue diagnosis experience
- 4+ years of Siemens, Allen-Bradley or Codesys Ladder Logic and structure programming experience
- 4+ years of robotics work cells and control systems experience
- 4+ years of electrical theory, robotics, controls components, and automated equipment experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent
- Master's degree, or Six Sigma Black Belt certification
- Experience leading controls in manufacturing or complex industrial environments
- Experience identifying, maintaining, troubleshooting, and modifying Motor Controls including motor starters, Variable Frequency Drives, DC drives, and standard electrical components
- Experience interpreting and modifying mechanical and electrical drawings
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, SC, Fountain Inn - 114,000.00 - 148,200.00 USD annually
See All 22 Automation Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
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Find Automation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs by City in South Carolina
Where South Carolina roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Automation Engineer Job Market in South Carolina
A snapshot from current South Carolina openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Science & Research
- Consulting & Professional Services
What South Carolina Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in automation engineer jobs across South Carolina.
- Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or mechatronics engineering from an accredited program
- Hands-on experience programming PLCs such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Mitsubishi platforms
- Proficiency with industrial robotics systems including FANUC, KUKA, or ABB
- Experience designing or supporting SCADA and HMI systems in a manufacturing environment
- Familiarity with automotive or advanced manufacturing production processes and quality standards
- Strong understanding of electrical schematics, control panel design, and safety standards such as NFPA 79
Automation Engineer Jobs in South Carolina: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a automation engineer in South Carolina?
Most automation engineer roles in South Carolina require a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or mechatronics engineering from an ABET-accredited program. South Carolina does not require a state-issued license specifically for automation engineers, though engineers who stamp drawings for public projects may pursue licensure through the South Carolina Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Employers in the Upstate manufacturing corridor typically prioritize PLC programming certifications and hands-on plant experience alongside the degree.
How much do automation engineers make in South Carolina?
Automation engineers in South Carolina earn a median of about $110,490 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $65,240 for the lowest 10% to over $180,960 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire automation engineers in South Carolina?
Companies currently hiring automation engineers in South Carolina include R.E. MASON, Flex, and Geodesicx, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of August 2026. South Carolina's dense concentration of automotive and advanced manufacturing facilities, particularly in the Greenville-Spartanburg area, means that both original equipment manufacturers and their Tier 1 suppliers are consistent sources of openings.
Which South Carolina cities have the most automation engineer jobs?
Aiken, Lyman, and Anderson account for the most automation engineer openings in South Carolina. Greenville and Spartanburg lead because of the BMW, Michelin, and Bosch campuses anchored there, while Charleston's growing aerospace and logistics sector and Columbia's mix of defense contractors and utility infrastructure keep those metros active as well.
Are there remote automation engineer jobs in South Carolina?
Yes, but they're rare. Automation engineering is fundamentally hands-on work tied to physical equipment, so most roles require an on-site presence. About 67% of automation engineer openings tied to South Carolina are remote or hybrid as of August 2026, and those positions tend to be in systems architecture, project management, or pre-sales application engineering rather than direct plant-floor controls work.
How can I get hired as a automation engineer in South Carolina with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is an internship or co-op with one of South Carolina's large manufacturers during your final year of an engineering program, as BMW Manufacturing, Michelin, and Bosch all run structured programs for students at Clemson University and the University of South Carolina. Candidates without a degree can start in technician or maintenance electrician roles and move laterally once they build PLC experience. Earning a Rockwell Automation certification strengthens any entry-level application.
Where can I find and apply to automation engineer jobs in South Carolina?
You can find and apply to automation engineer jobs in South Carolina on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings across the state. Search the roles available, find the ones that match your experience and location, and apply directly through the listings.
See All 22 Automation Engineer Jobs in South Carolina
Find roles in South Carolina that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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