Unable to run automator, with error "the operation couldn’t be completed (OSstatus error -50)"on my MacBook.

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following; 

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts 

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

• error -50 paramErr: error in user parameter list

Is this when working with when working with an MS-DOS or ExFAT formatted volume?

 Tis error can occur when a filename contains non-printing ACSII characters, or any of these characters: ? / " | > *