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Automation Design Engineer

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Automation Design Engineers create automated systems, enhancing efficiency and productivity. They design, develop, and implement automated solutions for various industries.

Average Salary

₹7,00,000

Growth

high

Satisfaction

medium

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Automation Design Engineer

To become a successful Automation Design Engineer in India, a strong educational foundation is essential. Here's a breakdown of the typical requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in one of the following fields is generally required:

    • Electrical Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Electronics and Communication Engineering
    • Instrumentation Engineering
    • Mechatronics Engineering

  • Core Coursework: The curriculum should cover essential topics such as:

    • Control Systems
    • Robotics
    • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
    • CAD/CAM
    • Instrumentation
    • Automation Technologies

  • Master's Degree (Optional but Recommended): A master's degree can provide advanced knowledge and skills, enhancing career prospects. Relevant specializations include:

    • Automation and Robotics
    • Control Engineering
    • Advanced Manufacturing

  • Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications can significantly boost your resume. Examples include:

    • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
    • PLC programming certifications (Siemens, Allen-Bradley)
    • Robotics certifications (FANUC, ABB)

  • Skills: Besides formal education, certain skills are crucial:

    • Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
    • PLC programming skills
    • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, Profibus)
    • Problem-solving abilities
    • Strong analytical skills
    • Excellent communication and teamwork skills

  • Internships: Practical experience through internships is highly valuable. Look for opportunities in manufacturing plants, automation companies, or research institutions.

Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges in India for Automation Design Engineering

To pursue a successful career as an Automation Design Engineer, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top institutions in India offering relevant courses:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):

    • IIT Madras: Offers programs in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Robotics.
    • IIT Delhi: Known for its programs in Electrical Engineering and Control Engineering.
    • IIT Bombay: Offers programs in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechatronics.
    • IIT Kharagpur: Has programs in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Automation.

  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs):

    • NIT Trichy: Offers programs in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Instrumentation and Control Engineering.
    • NIT Warangal: Known for its programs in Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
    • NIT Surathkal: Offers programs in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

  • Other Reputed Engineering Colleges:

    • BITS Pilani: Offers programs in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.
    • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore: Has programs in Mechatronics and Automation.
    • SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai: Offers programs in Mechatronics and Automation.

  • Specialized Institutes:

    • PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore: Known for its strong programs in Automation and Robotics.
    • Amrita School of Engineering: Offers specialized programs in Robotics and Automation.

When choosing a college, consider factors like faculty expertise, infrastructure, industry connections, and placement records.

Fees

Fee Structure for Courses Related to Automation Design Engineering in India

The cost of pursuing a career in Automation Design Engineering varies depending on the type of institution (government vs. private), the level of the course (undergraduate vs. postgraduate), and the specific program. Here's a general overview:

  • Undergraduate Programs (B.Tech/BE):

    • Government Colleges: ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 per year. IITs typically have higher fees compared to other government colleges.
    • Private Colleges: ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000 per year. The fees can vary significantly based on the college's reputation and infrastructure.

  • Postgraduate Programs (M.Tech/ME):

    • Government Colleges (IITs, NITs): ₹30,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: ₹80,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year.

  • Diploma Courses:

    • Government Polytechnics: ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Polytechnics: ₹30,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.

  • Certification Courses:

    • PLC Programming Certifications: ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per course, depending on the vendor and level.
    • Certified Automation Professional (CAP): Exam fee is around ₹40,000 (can vary based on ISA membership).

Note: These are approximate figures and can vary. Always check the official website of the respective institution for the most up-to-date fee structure.

Related Exams

Exams to Consider for a Career in Automation Design Engineering

While there isn't one specific exam that directly leads to becoming an Automation Design Engineer, several exams and entrance tests can help you gain admission to relevant undergraduate and postgraduate programs in India. Additionally, some certifications can boost your career.

  • Engineering Entrance Exams:

    • JEE Main & JEE Advanced: These are national-level entrance exams for admission to undergraduate engineering programs (B.Tech/BE) at IITs, NITs, and other top engineering colleges in India. A good score can get you into programs like Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Instrumentation Engineering, which are relevant to automation.
    • State-Level Engineering Entrance Exams: Many states in India conduct their own engineering entrance exams for admission to state government and private engineering colleges.

  • Postgraduate Entrance Exams:

    • GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): A national-level exam for admission to postgraduate engineering programs (M.Tech/ME) and for recruitment in some Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). A good GATE score can help you get into M.Tech programs in Automation, Robotics, Control Systems, etc.

  • Certifications:

    • Certified Automation Professional (CAP): Offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), this certification validates your knowledge and experience in automation. While not an exam for college admission, it's a valuable credential for career advancement.
    • PLC Programming Certifications: Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and other PLC manufacturers offer certifications for their specific PLC systems. These certifications demonstrate your proficiency in PLC programming, a crucial skill for automation engineers.
Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High demand in manufacturing and process industries.
  2. Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies.
  3. Competitive salary and benefits packages.
  4. Intellectual stimulation through problem-solving.
  5. Scope for continuous learning and development.
  6. Contributes to increased efficiency and productivity.
  7. Potential for global career opportunities.
  8. Chance to innovate and create new solutions.

Cons

  1. Requires continuous learning to stay updated.
  2. Can be stressful due to project deadlines.
  3. May involve working in demanding environments.
  4. High responsibility for system performance.
  5. Requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  6. Potential for job displacement due to automation.
  7. Can be repetitive at times.