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Ai Automation Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ICF is seeking an AI / Automation Engineer to design, build, and continuously improve the AI-enabled and automated capabilities that power service delivery for a federal technology program. Reporting ...

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Ai Automation Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$36.7K

$106.2K

$161.6K

How much do ai automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for ai automation engineer in Virginia is $106,207.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,800.00 and $122,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AI automation engineer?

AI Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement artificial intelligence solutions to automate tasks and workflows within organizations. They combine expertise in AI, machine learning, and software engineering to create systems that can perform repetitive or complex tasks efficiently with minimal human intervention. Their work often involves building and integrating AI models, optimizing processes, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of automated solutions. These engineers collaborate closely with data scientists, software developers, and business stakeholders to align automation initiatives with organizational goals.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an AI automation engineer?

To thrive as an AI Automation Engineer, you need strong programming skills (such as Python), a solid understanding of machine learning concepts, and typically a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with automation frameworks, cloud platforms (like AWS, Azure, or GCP), and machine learning libraries (such as TensorFlow or PyTorch) is often required. Problem-solving ability, adaptability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across teams and addressing complex technical challenges. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and scaling of automated AI solutions that drive business efficiency and innovation.

What are common challenges faced by AI automation engineers during project implementation?

AI Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new AI models with existing legacy systems, ensuring data quality for accurate model outputs, and managing stakeholder expectations regarding automation outcomes. They must also address issues related to model scalability and robustness, especially when deploying solutions in dynamic production environments. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including data scientists, software engineers, and business analysts—is essential to navigate these complexities and deliver effective automation solutions.

What is the difference between Ai Automation Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectAi Automation EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; knowledge of AI, automation toolsBachelor's or higher in Statistics, Computer Science, or related; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentTech companies, automation firms, R&D labs; focus on developing AI-driven automation solutionsData analysis teams, research institutions; focus on data modeling and insights
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, software development, AI startupsUsed across finance, healthcare, marketing, and tech sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in AI automationExploring data analysis careers

While both roles involve working with data and AI, Ai Automation Engineers focus on developing automated AI systems and integrating AI into processes. Data Scientists analyze data to extract insights and build models. The roles overlap in AI knowledge but differ in application and focus areas.

Is AI automation a high paying job?

AI automation engineers typically earn higher-than-average salaries due to their specialized skills in machine learning, programming, and data analysis. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but the role is generally considered well-compensated within the tech field.

Is AI automation engineer in demand?

AI automation engineers are in high demand due to the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence and automation across industries. They are needed to develop, implement, and maintain AI-driven systems, often requiring skills in machine learning, programming, and data analysis. Job opportunities are growing as companies seek to improve efficiency and innovation through automation technologies.

What job categories do people searching Ai Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Ai Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ai Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Ai Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Ai Automation Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 63% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,207 per year, or $51.1 per hour.

AI / Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA • Remote

ICF
Business Management Consulting • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, build, and deploy Tier Zero self-service capabilities, including virtual agents, AI-powered chatbots, and automated troubleshooting tools.

  • Implement intelligent routing logic to direct incidents and service requests to appropriate resolution paths.

  • Build automation workflows using low-code and pro-code tools to streamline repetitive IT operations processes.


Job description

This role is contingent upon a contract award.

ICF is seeking an AI / Automation Engineer to design, build, and continuously improve the AI-enabled and automated capabilities that power service delivery for a federal technology program. Reporting to the Service Desk Manager, this roleis responsible forthe technical build-out of Tier Zero self-service tools, virtual agents, intelligent routing systems, and predictive maintenance capabilities that reduce human intervention and improve the end-user experience.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on technologist who has built and shipped conversational AI and automation solutions in production environments. This role requires more building than advising. The right candidate is comfortable working across service desk operations, cloud platforms, and integration layers to deliver automation thatactually getsused.

Job Location: This is a remote-friendly position with occasional onsite requirements in the Washington, DC Metro area.

This position requires that the job be performed in the United States.If you accept this position, you should note that ICF does monitor employee work locations and blocks access from foreign locations/foreign IP addressesand alsoprohibits personal VPN connections.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Design, build, and deploy Tier Zero self-service capabilities, including virtual agents, AI-powered chatbots, and automated troubleshooting tools that resolve incidents and service requests without human intervention.

  • Implement intelligent routing logic that directs incidents and service requests to the right resolution path based on issue type, user context, and historical patterns.

  • Deploy andmaintainAI-powered predictive maintenance tools that detect hardware and software issues proactively, reducing unplanned downtime for end users.

  • Design andmaintainTier Zero knowledge repositories, including automated content refresh, analytics-driven gap identification, and integration with ITSM ticketing systems.

  • Build automation workflows using low-code and pro-code tools, including Power Automate and similar platforms, to streamline repetitive processes across IT operations.

  • Integrate virtual agents and automation tools with existing ITSM platforms to ensure seamless escalation to human technicians when Tier Zero resolution fails.

  • Track and report on Tier Zero performance metrics, including deflection rate, chatbot resolution success rate, and end-user satisfaction, and use that data to drive continuous improvement.

  • Coordinate with the Service Desk Manager and cloud/platform engineering teams to align automation builds with operational priorities and platform governance requirements.

  • Ensure all Tier Zero and AI-enabled tools meet Section 508 and WCAG accessibility standards before deployment.

  • Document automation architectures, configuration baselines, and runbooks so solutions can bemaintained, extended, and handed off effectively.

MinimumRequirements

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent

  • 5+ years of experience in AI engineering, automation engineering, or a related IT engineering discipline

  • 3+ years of hands-on experience designing and deploying virtual agents or conversational AI tools in production environments

  • 2+ years of experience with low-code and workflow automation platforms such as Power Automate, ServiceNow Flow Designer, or equivalent

  • 2+ years supporting federal IT programs in HHS, NIH, FDA, or other health-focused agencies

  • U.S. Citizenshiprequireddue to federal contract requirements

  • Ability to obtain andmaintaina Public Trust background investigation

  • Candidate mustresidein the US,be authorized towork in the US, and work must be performed in the US

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience integrating virtual agents with ITSM platforms such as ServiceNow or Jira Service Management

  • Familiarity with ITIL service management practices and how automation fits into incident and service request lifecycle

  • Experience using analytics and ticket trend data toidentifyautomation opportunities and measure deflection impact

  • Familiarity with Section 508 and WCAG accessibility requirements for digital tools and self-service platforms

  • Relevant certifications in AI, automation, Power Platform, or cloud platforms such as Microsoft, AWS, or Google


Bot and Third-Party Applications

Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration.Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration.Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contactCandidateaccommodation@icf.comfor assistance.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$108,006.00 - $183,610.00DC Remote Office (DC99)