Automation Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Kentucky
Kentucky's automation sector spans advanced manufacturing plants in Louisville and Lexington, Toyota's Georgetown assembly complex, and a growing network of logistics hubs. Employers including Toyota, Tempur Sealy, and Lexmark have established records of sponsoring international talent for automation roles, making Kentucky a practical target for engineers and technicians seeking visa sponsorship.
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At Jabil (NYSE: JBL), we are proud to be a trusted partner for the world's top brands, offering comprehensive engineering, supply chain, and manufacturing solutions. With 60 years of experience across industries and a vast network of over 100 sites worldwide, Jabil combines global reach with local expertise to deliver both scalable and customized solutions. Our commitment extends beyond business success as we strive to build sustainable processes that minimize environmental impact and foster vibrant and diverse communities around the globe.
JOB SUMMARY
The Automation Engineer I is responsible for supporting the design, development, integration, testing, installation, and maintenance of automation systems and manufacturing equipment used in industrial and manufacturing environments. This role works across multiple disciplines including controls engineering, robotics, motion control, machine vision, and system integration to deliver reliable and efficient automation solutions.
The position focuses on developing and supporting control systems, PLC/HMI programming, motion control applications, robotic integration, machine vision systems, and automation concept development. The Automation Engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize manufacturing processes, improve equipment performance, and support continuous improvement initiatives while ensuring compliance with safety and industry standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, develop, test, and support automation systems and machinery used in manufacturing environments.
- Develop and modify PLC, HMI, and motion control programs for automation equipment and manufacturing systems.
- Support integration of industrial robots, vision systems, servo systems, and peripheral automation equipment.
- Create and maintain electrical schematics, control system documentation, and automation design specifications.
- Assist in concept development and feasibility studies for new automation equipment and process improvements.
- Integrate and troubleshoot machine vision systems including Keyence, Cognex, and other industrial vision platforms.
- Support robotic integration, programming, and troubleshooting for systems such as FANUC and Universal Robots.
- Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, and related industrial protocols.
- Support implementation of motion control systems including servo drives, VFDs, and motor control systems.
- Participate in equipment commissioning, startup, validation, and production support activities.
- Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and maintenance teams to ensure successful system integration.
- Support safety system integration including Safety PLCs and machine safety devices in compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
- Analyze manufacturing and equipment issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on cycle time reduction, equipment reliability, and process optimization.
- Work with suppliers, contractors, and internal teams to ensure equipment and systems meet technical and customer requirements.
- Assist with project planning, technical documentation, cost estimation, and project execution activities.
- Provide technical support to manufacturing, maintenance, and operations teams as needed.
- Maintain accurate engineering documentation including electrical drawings, PLC backups, network configurations, and operating procedures.
- May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge of industrial automation systems, controls engineering, and manufacturing processes.
- Experience with PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial control systems.
- Understanding of motion control systems including servo motors, servo drives, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).
- Knowledge of industrial robotics integration and programming concepts.
- Familiarity with industrial machine vision systems and inspection technologies.
- Understanding of industrial communication protocols and networks such as Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, and Modbus.
- Knowledge of electrical controls design, ladder logic programming, and troubleshooting techniques.
- Familiarity with machine safety systems and safety control integration.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in cross-functional team environments and support multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong communication and technical documentation skills.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or related field.
- 1–2 years of experience in automation engineering, controls engineering, or manufacturing automation environments.
- Basic experience or exposure to PLC programming, HMI development, robotics, or industrial automation systems preferred.
BENEFITS WITH JABIL
Along with growth, stability, and the opportunity to be challenged, Jabil offers a competitive benefits package that includes:
- Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug, and Vision Insurance with HRA and HSA options
- 401K match
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance
- Commuter Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Pet Insurance
- Adoption Assistance
- Annual Merit Increases
- Community Volunteer Opportunities
BE AWARE OF FRAUD: When applying for a job at Jabil you will be contacted via correspondence through our official job portal with a jabil.com e-mail address; direct phone call from a member of the Jabil team; or direct e-mail with a jabil.com e-mail address. Jabil does not request payments for interviews or at any other point during the hiring process. Jabil will not ask for your personal identifying information such as a social security number, birth certificate, financial institution, driver’s license number or passport information over the phone or via e-mail. If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, contact the Federal Bureau of Investigations internet crime hotline (www.ic3.gov), the Federal Trade Commission identity theft hotline (www.identitytheft.gov) and/or your local police department. Any scam job listings should be reported to whatever website it was posted in.
Jabil, including its subsidiaries, is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Accessibility Accommodation
If you are a qualified individual with a disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access Jabil.com/Careers site as a result of your disability. You can request a reasonable accommodation by sending an e-mail to Always_Accessible@Jabil.com or calling 727-803-7988 with the nature of your request and contact information. Please do not direct any other general employment related questions to this e-mail or phone number. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to.
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Automation Job Roles in Kentucky
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Search Automation Jobs in KentuckyAutomation Jobs in Kentucky: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for automation roles in Kentucky?
Toyota's Georgetown manufacturing facility is one of Kentucky's most active sponsors for engineering and automation talent. Other employers with sponsorship track records include Lexmark International in Lexington, Tempur Sealy, and various advanced manufacturing contractors supporting Ford and GE Appliances operations. Logistics and warehousing companies operating fulfillment centers in the Louisville area have also filed sponsorship petitions for automation engineers and controls specialists.
Which visa types are most common for automation roles in Kentucky?
The H-1B visa is the most common visa for automation engineers, controls engineers, and robotics specialists in Kentucky, as these roles typically require at least a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field and qualify as specialty occupations. TN visas are an option for Canadian and Mexican nationals in qualifying engineering roles. Candidates with exceptional records in automation research may explore the O-1A category.
Which cities in Kentucky have the most automation sponsorship jobs?
Louisville and Lexington account for the majority of automation sponsorship activity in Kentucky. Louisville's concentration of logistics, manufacturing, and food processing facilities drives demand for automation engineers and PLC programmers. Lexington benefits from proximity to Toyota's Georgetown plant and a cluster of automotive suppliers. Georgetown itself, though smaller, is a notable destination given Toyota's large-scale advanced manufacturing presence there.
How to find automation visa sponsorship jobs in Kentucky?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically by visa sponsorship availability, making it straightforward to search for automation roles in Kentucky without sorting through postings that don't offer sponsorship. You can filter by state and role type to surface relevant openings from manufacturers, logistics operators, and engineering firms actively hiring in Kentucky. Migrate Mate's focus on sponsorship-confirmed roles saves significant time compared to general job searches.
Are there state-specific considerations for automation professionals pursuing sponsorship in Kentucky?
Kentucky's manufacturing base, anchored by automotive, aerospace, and appliance production, creates consistent demand for controls engineers, robotics technicians, and industrial automation specialists. The University of Kentucky and University of Louisville produce engineering graduates and maintain industry partnerships that sometimes create pipelines into sponsoring employers. Prevailing wage requirements for H-1B petitions are determined by the Department of Labor based on the specific role and county, so wages vary across Louisville, Lexington, and rural manufacturing corridors.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored automation jobs in Kentucky?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.