CPT Automation Technician Jobs
Automation Technician CPT jobs let you apply PLC programming, robotics integration, and control systems work directly to your engineering or technology curriculum. Your DSO must authorize each position before you start, and the role must tie to a specific course or program requirement, not just general field experience.
Find CPT Automation Technician JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 40+ Automation Technician jobs










See all 40+ Automation Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Automation Technician roles.
Get Access To All Jobs
JOB OBJECTIVE: This position is meant as a learning opportunity for an individual who is in the process of obtaining a degree in the fields of Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering or Computer Science. Under the direction of an Automation Engineer, this person will be able to obtain hands on work experience by providing technical support to engineering as well as by assisting in the development and commissioning of industrial automation systems.
- This is an 8-month co-op position with two possible start dates: January through August, or May through December. Candidates must be able to commit to the full 8-month term for their selected timeline.
CORE DUTIES:
-
Plan, develop, program, and implement methods of control and automation to improve operations, minimize operating costs, maximize efficiency and effect greater utilization of labor and materials.
-
Support the commissioning and validation of automated process and machine control systems.
-
Investigate and analyze manufacturing processes for automation potential. Research and identify appropriate equipment for automation of processes in operations, both in manufacturing and product finishing.
-
Conceptualize, plan, design and execute Capital Projects relating to Industrial Automation, Process Controls and Electrical Distribution.
-
Support design and maintenance of OT network and related SCADA software.
-
Basic activities:
- Control system design and programming.
- Control panel design and assembly.
- Development of Bill of Material (BOM).
- Rockwell PLC & HMI programming.
- Communication network design.
-
System documentation and manual creation.
-
Assist, as required, with GMP documentation and tasks associated with engineering projects.
-
Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.
-
Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
-
Demonstrates inclusion through their own words and actions and is accountable for a safe workspace. Acts with kindness, curiosity and respect for others.
-
Embracing and being open to incorporating Promega’s 6 Emotional & Social Intelligence (ESI) core principles in daily work.
-
Understands and complies with ethical, legal and regulatory requirements applicable to our business.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS:
-
At least 1 year of instruction towards a BS in Engineering.
-
Base electrical circuit and problem-solving skills.
-
Excellent organization, communication, and presentation skills.
-
Driven individual with a track record of being a self-starter.
-
Ability to handle both multiple and changing priorities.
-
Some CAD (preferred AutoCad) training.
-
Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology, including Microsoft applications and mobile platforms, with the ability to adapt and leverage emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
-
Rockwell PLC & HMI Programming.
-
Motion control via Servo or VFD.
-
OT network experience.
-
Junior or senior status towards a BS degree in Electrical Engineering.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
-
Ability to observe and inspect equipment and operations for proper operation and compliance to safety and housekeeping standards.
-
Ability to work in a production environment around automated equipment.
-
Ability to work in an office environment utilizing a computer workstation.
-
Ability to work in a lab environment with chemical, biological and packaging materials.
-
Ability to remain stationary for several hours at a time.
-
Ability to position oneself in low positions.
-
Ability to move objects up to 20 pounds.
-
Ability to transport items between buildings.
At Promega, we value diversity and strive to create an inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
See all 40+ CPT Automation Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new CPT Automation Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsAutomation Technician CPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Automation Technician role qualify for CPT authorization?
It depends on whether the work ties directly to your enrolled program. Roles involving PLC programming, robotics maintenance, or industrial control systems typically qualify for students in electrical engineering technology, mechatronics, or automation engineering programs. Your DSO makes the final determination based on how the position connects to a specific course or degree requirement, not just the job title.
Can I work as an Automation Technician under CPT while taking classes full time?
Yes, part-time CPT (under 20 hours per week) runs concurrently with full-time enrollment, and most Automation Technician CPT placements are structured this way during the academic year. Full-time CPT is typically reserved for co-op semesters where the employer engagement replaces classroom credit. Confirm the weekly hour limit with your DSO before signing an offer letter, since exceeding your authorized hours violates your F-1 status.
Do Automation Technician employers need to file anything with USCIS for CPT?
No. CPT authorization is entirely school-side and doesn't require any employer filing with USCIS or DOL. The employer hires you on the strength of your CPT-endorsed I-20. The only employer-side obligation is completing Form I-9 on your first day of work and verifying your documents, which includes your passport, visa, and amended I-20 showing the authorized employer.
How do I find Automation Technician employers that regularly hire F-1 CPT students?
Search on Migrate Mate, which surfaces employers with documented F-1 hiring history in technical and manufacturing roles. Automation and industrial companies that run co-op programs through universities tend to have established HR processes for CPT students. Facilities with ISO certifications or defense contracts often have compliance infrastructure already in place, making the onboarding process for international students more predictable.
What happens to my OPT eligibility if I complete a full-time Automation Technician CPT placement?
Full-time CPT authorization totaling 12 or more cumulative months makes you ineligible for OPT after graduation, including the STEM OPT extension. Part-time CPT has no effect on OPT eligibility regardless of total duration. If you're planning to use OPT and then pursue H-1B visa sponsorship after graduation, keep each individual full-time CPT semester under the 12-month threshold or structure your placement as part-time.