What Employers Actually Want â Based on Real Job Postings
We analyzed thousands of automation technician, controls engineer, and industrial maintenance job postings across the United States to identify the skills that employers mention most frequently and pay the highest premiums for. If you are building your skill set or planning your training, this list tells you where to invest your time.
1. PLC Programming (Allen-Bradley and Siemens)
Mentioned in 87% of automation job postings. The single most in-demand skill. Employers want proficiency in ladder logic, structured text, and function block diagrams on at least one major platform. Multi-platform knowledge (both Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 and Siemens TIA Portal) commands a 15-20% salary premium. If you learn one thing, learn this.
2. Electrical Troubleshooting
Mentioned in 79% of postings. The ability to read electrical schematics, use a multimeter, trace circuits, and diagnose faults in motor controls, power distribution, and control wiring. This is the foundational skill that makes everything else possible. Employers assume you have this before they even consider your PLC skills.
3. Industrial Robot Programming
Mentioned in 54% of postings, up from 38% in 2023. FANUC is the most requested brand (45% of robot mentions), followed by ABB (22%), KUKA (15%), and Universal Robots/collaborative robots (18%). Demand is growing fastest for collaborative robot programming as manufacturers deploy cobots on lines that previously had no automation.
4. HMI and SCADA Development
Mentioned in 51% of postings. Human-Machine Interface design and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems are how operators interact with automated equipment. Proficiency with FactoryTalk View, Ignition SCADA, WinCC, and Wonderware/AVEVA is valued. Employers want technicians who can both create screens and troubleshoot communication issues.
5. Industrial Networking
Mentioned in 47% of postings, up significantly from 31% in 2022. EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, and OPC UA are the protocols employers mention most. As factories become more connected (Industry 4.0, IIoT), the ability to configure managed switches, set up VLANs, troubleshoot communication faults, and secure industrial networks has become critical.
6. Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Setup and Troubleshooting
Mentioned in 44% of postings. VFDs control motor speed in everything from conveyors to pumps to HVAC systems. Employers want technicians who can configure parameters, set up communications between VFDs and PLCs, and diagnose faults. PowerFlex (Allen-Bradley), SINAMICS (Siemens), and ABB drives are the most common.
7. Preventive and Predictive Maintenance
Mentioned in 42% of postings. Beyond reactive troubleshooting, employers want technicians who can implement systematic maintenance programs, use vibration analysis, thermal imaging, and oil analysis to predict failures before they cause unplanned downtime. CMRP certification (Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional) is gaining traction.
8. Welding (Certified)
Mentioned in 39% of postings that include fabrication or maintenance. AWS certifications in specific positions (3G, 4G, 6G pipe) and processes (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW) are the standard. Certified pipe welders and structural welders remain among the highest-paid trades professionals. Robotic welding programming is an emerging niche.
9. Safety Systems and Compliance
Mentioned in 36% of postings. Knowledge of safety PLCs (GuardLogix, SIMATIC Safety), safety circuit design, risk assessment (ISO 13849, IEC 62443), and regulatory compliance (OSHA, NFPA 70E). Safety-rated automation is a specialized niche with limited competition and strong demand, particularly in automotive and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
10. Documentation and Communication
Mentioned in 33% of postings but universally cited as a weakness by hiring managers. The ability to write clear work orders, update schematics after modifications, document PLC program changes, and communicate technical issues to non-technical managers separates good technicians from great ones. It is also the skill most likely to lead to management advancement.
Bonus: Emerging Skills to Watch
- Python scripting for automation: Data collection, report generation, and integration with IT systems
- Industrial cybersecurity: ISA/IEC 62443, network segmentation, access control
- Digital twin and simulation: Emulate.3D, Tecnomatix, Visual Components
- Edge computing and IIoT: Connecting OT data to cloud analytics platforms
Build your training plan around these 10 core skills, add one or two emerging skills, and you will be positioned for the strongest job market in manufacturing history.
