Lately, I’ve been having some really interesting conversations with both candidates and clients about a big shift happening in manufacturing. Sustainability isn’t just a nice-to-have anymore—it’s a core part of automation. Green initiatives are changing what companies expect from automation professionals, and it’s happening faster than most people realize.
Let’s talk about what’s actually going on in the industry.
Real Market Changes
Energy efficiency used to be more of a buzzword—something companies aimed for but didn’t always prioritize. That’s no longer the case.
One of our recent manufacturing clients was searching for an automation professional with a very specific skill set. They didn’t just need someone to keep their production lines running; they needed someone who could optimize energy consumption while maintaining productivity. They were looking for an engineer who understood automation systems and energy management principles.
And they’re not the only ones. We’re seeing more and more companies look for these hybrid skills.
What’s Actually Being Implemented
Based on recent placements, here are some of the ways sustainability and automation are coming together:
Energy Monitoring Systems
- Installing power monitoring solutions
- Tracking real-time energy consumption
- Integrating energy data with SCADA systems
- Automating efficiency reports for better decision-making
Process Optimization
- Programming systems to reduce energy waste during production cycles
- Implementing smart shutdowns for idle equipment
- Using regenerative braking in motion control systems
- Reducing material waste with precise control strategies
The Skills That Matter Right Now
If you’re an automation professional looking to stay ahead in this evolving field, here are the technical capabilities we’re seeing in demand:
- Experience with Energy Management Systems (EMS)
- Knowledge of ISO 50001 energy management standards
- Understanding of variable frequency drives for optimizing energy use
- Ability to collect and analyze data for sustainability reporting
Real-World Applications
Candidates we’ve placed recently have been working on projects like:
✅ Developing automated systems to cut down on material waste
✅ Integrating energy monitoring into existing control systems
✅ Creating recovery systems to reuse heat and power
✅ Automating environmental compliance reporting
Certifications That Make a Difference
We’re seeing a growing number of companies value certifications in this space, including:
📌 Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
📌 ISO 50001 Lead Auditor
📌 Vendor certifications (Siemens Energy Management, Rockwell, etc.)
📌 Professional Energy Manager (PEM)
These aren’t just nice extras—they’re making a real difference in hiring decisions.
How to Build These Skills
If you’re looking to transition into sustainable automation, here are some practical steps to get started:
1️⃣ Learn the fundamentals of energy efficiency—especially in industrial settings
2️⃣ Get familiar with energy monitoring and management systems
3️⃣ Understand environmental regulations that impact automation
4️⃣ Work on real-world efficiency optimization projects—even within your current role
What Companies Are Looking For
Right now, manufacturing clients are searching for automation professionals who can:
✔ Develop energy-efficient control strategies
✔ Implement monitoring systems for sustainability metrics
✔ Optimize processes to reduce environmental impact
✔ Ensure compliance with sustainability regulations
Looking Ahead
The demand for automation professionals with sustainability expertise is only going to grow. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or pivot into this space, developing green automation skills will make you more valuable in the industry.Want to explore sustainable automation opportunities or build a greener team? Let’s connect. We’ve helped professionals and companies navigate this shift, and we’d love to share insights on where the industry is headed.
