Why Generalist Job Boards Fail for Automation Hiring

Hiring for industrial automation roles like control system engineers, SCADA developers, and PLC programmers requires more than just a job listing. It requires precision targeting. Unfortunately, platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter aren’t built for this level of specialization.

Here’s why generalist job boards are failing employers in the automation space—and what to do instead.

1. Too Many Unqualified Applications

Generic platforms make it incredibly easy for anyone to apply. Within hours, your inbox is overflowing with resumes, but how many of them actually meet your requirements?

Most hiring managers report spending days screening applications, just to find a handful of candidates worth shortlisting. This inefficiency costs time, energy, and project momentum.

2. Keyword Gaming and Resume Inflation

Automation roles are in high demand and command high salaries. As a result, many job seekers add automation-related keywords to their resumes—even when they lack real experience.

Recruiters relying on keyword filters often fall for inflated claims, leading to mismatches and costly hiring mistakes.

3. Automation Skills Aren’t Easily Understood

Industrial automation involves a complex mix of technical systems and specialized terminology. Generic staffing services and ATS platforms often can’t tell the difference between a Siemens TIA Portal expert and someone who once configured an HMI five years ago.

This lack of context leads to poor matches and wasted interview time.

4. Passive Candidates Are Invisible on General Platforms

The best automation engineers are often not looking for jobs. They’re employed, engaged, and focused on projects, not browsing LinkedIn or job boards daily.

If you’re only relying on generalist sites, you’re missing out on the passive talent that makes up the backbone of this industry.

The Solution?

Automation JobSearch is more than a niche job board. It’s a portal built specifically for automation professionals, attracting both active job seekers and passive candidates through high-quality, industry-specific content.

Here’s how we help:

🎯 Access to a Targeted Candidate Funnel

Our site consistently attracts traffic from control engineers, systems integrators, OT professionals, and other specialists who engage with our news and industry insights.

By posting your job here, you’re not just casting a wide net you’re fishing in the right waters.

⏱️ Save Time with Manual Resume Screening

Our Source & Screen package includes a dedicated screening officer with automation experience. We manually review every application and provide you with a shortlist of qualified, interview-ready candidates—saving you days of work.

💰 Avoid High Recruitment Fees

Recruitment firms often charge 15–25% of a candidate’s first-year salary and still rely on keyword filters and volume-based tactics.

With Automation JobSearch, you get a more focused, cost-effective, and technically informed hiring process.

💡 Built by Automation Professionals

We understand the terminology, tools, and technologies that matter in industrial automation. Our screening, content, and community engagement are tailored to this sector—something generic job boards simply can’t replicate.

🚀 Start Hiring Smarter Today

Frustrated by irrelevant applications and wasted time?

Promote your roles on Automation JobSearch today and connect directly with the automation professionals.