As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for an Automation Controls Technician I in the United States is $79,500 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $38.
However, an Automation Controls Technician I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Automation Controls Technician I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Automation Controls Technician I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Automation Controls Technician I | 1-3 years | $79,414 |
| Automation Controls Technician II | 3-5 years | $87,941 |
| Automation Controls Technician III | 5-7 years | $97,031 |
| Automation Engineering Manager | 7+ years | $167,229 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Automation Controls Technician Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Understanding how an Automation Controls Technician I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026For an Automation Controls Technician I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Automation Controls Technician II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $88,000 - a projected growth of 11% over your current level.
Salaries for an Automation Controls Technician I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $61,618 in 2023 to around $61,919 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Automation Controls Technician I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $61,618 |
| 2024 | $62,094 |
| 2025 | $61,919 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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Automation Controls Technicians can earn competitive salaries across various locations. The minimum salary is $73,500, with a mid-range salary of $84,300 and a maximum of $94,700. Cities like Charlotte, NC, and Ontario, CA, offer hourly rates around $34.27 and $33.17, respectively, reflecting the demand and compensation for skilled technicians in the field.
While a degree can provide a strong foundation for an automation engineering career, it's not always required. Employers value practical skills gained through vocational training, online courses, and industry certifications. Automation Controls Technicians can expect salaries ranging from $73,500 to $94,700, with a median salary of $84,300.
To become an automation technician, you typically need an associate's degree in automation technology, robotics, or a related field. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree. Gaining experience through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or internships is also beneficial. The salary for this role ranges from $73,500 to $94,700, with a median salary of $84,300.
Automation Controls Technicians can earn competitive salaries across various locations. The minimum salary is $73,500, with a mid-range salary of $84,300 and a maximum of $94,700. Cities like Augusta, GA, and Charlotte, NC, offer some of the highest hourly rates, reflecting the demand for skilled technicians in the field.
Yes, automation technicians are in demand. As industries increasingly adopt automation, the need for skilled technicians is rising. Typically, salaries range from $73,500 to $94,700, with a mid-point of $84,300, reflecting the growing importance of this role in various sectors.
Another name for an Automation Technician is an Automation Specialist or a Maintenance Technician. The salary for this role typically ranges from $73,500 to $94,700, with a mid-point salary of $84,300, reflecting the technician's expertise and responsibilities in automation systems.
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