Automation Engineer Jobs at AutoNation with Visa Sponsorship
AutoNation's Automation Engineer roles sit at the intersection of manufacturing technology and enterprise-scale operations, covering PLC programming, robotics integration, and process improvement across dealership and service networks. AutoNation has a track record of sponsoring work visas for engineering talent, including H-1B and OPT candidates.
See All Automation Engineer at AutoNation JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 186+ Automation Engineer Jobs at AutoNation jobs


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?
See all 186+ Automation Engineer Jobs at AutoNation
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Automation Engineer Jobs at AutoNation.
Get Access To All Jobs
INTRODUCTION
The Technical Lead is responsible for the overall design, implementation and quality of the code the team produces across one or more projects. The Technical Lead partners with the IT leadership, architecture, and development staff to establish vision, strategy and road maps that align with business strategies and organizational priorities. The Technical Lead must collaborate with peers and leadership to leverage knowledge and solutions across the organization.
Organizational Relationships:
The Technical Lead of Application Development is a position within a development group focused on building our core sales and CRM platform. The Technical Lead is accountable for daily status on tech design, development, and resource management.
The Technical Lead Works With
- Delivery leads to staff projects with associates, contractors, and/or third party teams
- Project managers on a plan and estimates
- Architecture and delivery leads on solution blueprints
- QA and delivery leads on functional testing, integration testing, performance testing and to triage defects
- Service introduction on hand-off to application operations team
Job Responsibilities
The Technical Lead of Application Development is a position within a development group focused on leading the delivery of best in class systems to support AutoNation’s business lines, across all channels. These include customer and associate facing applications built on AWS using Microservices Architecture and other AWS components that integrate with existing on-prem AutoNation systems and databases.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- 8+ years experience in java software development demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility
- Experience leading a team of 3 or more software developers
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent experience
- Experience producing solution designs for large-scale, highly available, mission-critical systems
- Proficient in designing, creating and consuming Web Services (REST, JSON, OAuth), multi-tier or microservice applications in Java and large scale database applications
- Strong experience in SQL and data modeling
- Demonstrate sound architecture skills and broad experience designing applications
- Ability to communicate complex technical design concepts and translate into non-technical business solutions
- Able to communicate well with all levels in the organization, and must be comfortable as a primary contact to internal and external customers
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Experience in Agile, Waterfall and other software development methodologies
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with developing within a Cloud environment with good knowledge of cloud infrastructure like AWS is a plus
- Experience with ecommerce, retail, automotive, and financing is a plus
Exciting Benefits And Perks Await You
- Competitive compensation and 401k matching
- Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits
- Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear
- Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers
- Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide
AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

INTRODUCTION
The Technical Lead is responsible for the overall design, implementation and quality of the code the team produces across one or more projects. The Technical Lead partners with the IT leadership, architecture, and development staff to establish vision, strategy and road maps that align with business strategies and organizational priorities. The Technical Lead must collaborate with peers and leadership to leverage knowledge and solutions across the organization.
Organizational Relationships:
The Technical Lead of Application Development is a position within a development group focused on building our core sales and CRM platform. The Technical Lead is accountable for daily status on tech design, development, and resource management.
The Technical Lead Works With
- Delivery leads to staff projects with associates, contractors, and/or third party teams
- Project managers on a plan and estimates
- Architecture and delivery leads on solution blueprints
- QA and delivery leads on functional testing, integration testing, performance testing and to triage defects
- Service introduction on hand-off to application operations team
Job Responsibilities
The Technical Lead of Application Development is a position within a development group focused on leading the delivery of best in class systems to support AutoNation’s business lines, across all channels. These include customer and associate facing applications built on AWS using Microservices Architecture and other AWS components that integrate with existing on-prem AutoNation systems and databases.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- 8+ years experience in java software development demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility
- Experience leading a team of 3 or more software developers
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent experience
- Experience producing solution designs for large-scale, highly available, mission-critical systems
- Proficient in designing, creating and consuming Web Services (REST, JSON, OAuth), multi-tier or microservice applications in Java and large scale database applications
- Strong experience in SQL and data modeling
- Demonstrate sound architecture skills and broad experience designing applications
- Ability to communicate complex technical design concepts and translate into non-technical business solutions
- Able to communicate well with all levels in the organization, and must be comfortable as a primary contact to internal and external customers
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Experience in Agile, Waterfall and other software development methodologies
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with developing within a Cloud environment with good knowledge of cloud infrastructure like AWS is a plus
- Experience with ecommerce, retail, automotive, and financing is a plus
Exciting Benefits And Perks Await You
- Competitive compensation and 401k matching
- Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits
- Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear
- Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers
- Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide
AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
See all 186+ Automation Engineer at AutoNation jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Automation Engineer at AutoNation roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Automation Engineer Jobs at AutoNation Jobs
Align your credentials to automotive systems
AutoNation prioritizes automation engineers with hands-on experience in PLC platforms like Siemens or Allen-Bradley and SCADA systems. Document project experience with conveyor systems, robotics, or vehicle service workflows before applying.
Target AutoNation's regional service operations
AutoNation operates across multiple states, and engineering openings cluster around large service and parts distribution centers. Applying to roles tied to physical facilities improves your odds of reaching a hiring team with budget and urgency to sponsor.
Use Migrate Mate to filter verified sponsoring roles
Not every AutoNation Automation Engineer posting explicitly states sponsorship availability. Use Migrate Mate to surface roles where AutoNation has an active sponsorship track record, so you focus your applications on positions most likely to move forward.
Time your OPT application around semester-end hiring cycles
AutoNation ramps up technical hiring in Q1 and Q3. If you're on F-1 OPT, filing your EAD with USCIS at least 90 days before your program end date keeps your authorization active when offers are most likely to land.
Prepare for a specialty occupation conversation
USCIS scrutinizes H-1B petitions for automation roles in non-tech industries. Gather documentation showing your position requires a specific bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering, not just general technical aptitude.
Clarify sponsorship scope before accepting an offer
Ask HR whether AutoNation handles H-1B filing internally or through outside counsel, and confirm they file at the standard USCIS processing timeline. Understanding the internal process prevents surprises once you're past the offer stage.
Automation Engineer at AutoNation jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Automation Engineer at AutoNation JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does AutoNation sponsor H-1B visas for Automation Engineers?
Yes, AutoNation sponsors H-1B visas for Automation Engineer roles. The position typically qualifies as a specialty occupation because it requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a field like electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering. AutoNation has a documented history of filing H-1B petitions for engineering functions, making it a viable target if you need employer sponsorship.
How do I apply for Automation Engineer jobs at AutoNation?
Applications go through AutoNation's careers portal, where most Automation Engineer roles are listed by region or service center. You can also find verified openings filtered by sponsorship history on Migrate Mate. When applying, tailor your resume to highlight specific automation platforms, certifications like PLC programming, and any experience with automotive or high-throughput service environments.
Which visa types are commonly used for Automation Engineer roles at AutoNation?
AutoNation supports H-1B sponsorship for full-time Automation Engineer hires and accepts F-1 OPT and CPT candidates for qualifying roles. TN visa holders with Canadian or Mexican citizenship may also be eligible if the role maps to a qualifying TN profession such as engineer. Each pathway depends on the specific role scope and your educational background.
What qualifications and experience does AutoNation expect for Automation Engineer roles?
AutoNation typically requires a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering alongside hands-on experience with industrial automation platforms such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLCs. Familiarity with robotics integration, SCADA systems, and preventive maintenance workflows in high-volume service or manufacturing environments strengthens your application significantly. Relevant certifications accelerate the specialty occupation determination for H-1B purposes.
How long does the sponsorship and hiring process take for Automation Engineer roles at AutoNation?
From offer acceptance to H-1B filing, expect several weeks for AutoNation's HR and legal teams to prepare the Labor Condition Application with DOL and then file the I-129 petition with USCIS. Standard USCIS processing runs three to six months. If you're on OPT with a cap-gap situation, confirm your authorization timeline with HR before your start date to avoid gaps in work authorization.
See which Automation Engineer at AutoNation employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
Search Automation Engineer at AutoNation Jobs