An automated tensioning system is provided for a conveyor. The tensioning system includes a spring housing with a lead screw/drive shaft assembly located therein that has a pushing face that extends out of one housing end. A spring compression plate is threadingly engaged with the lead screw. A plate indicator is located on the spring compression plate. A tensioner spring is located between the tensioner spring support provided by a first housing end and the spring compression plate. A sensor is located on the spring housing that is configured to detect a position of the plate indicator. A driven wheel, rotationally engaged with the drive shaft and axially slideable thereon, is driven by a motor to drive the driven wheel and rotate the lead screw and advance or retract the face so that a desired tension is maintained.