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Automation Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD (NOW HIRING)

CBRE

Automation Engineer

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

About the Role In this vital leadership role as Automation Engineering Manager (AEM), the ideal candidate will manage a team responsible for supporting the operations of the customer's technical ...

Koniag, Inc.

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Quality Agents

Automation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

We are seeking a hands-on and detail-driven Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems in a regulated biotech manufacturing environment. This ...

Koniag Services, Inc.

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

New

kgs

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

kgs

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · Hybrid

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Quality Agents, LLC

Automation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

We are seeking a hands-on and detail-driven Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems in a regulated biotech manufacturing environment. This ...

Quality Agents, LLC

Automation Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

We are seeking a hands-on and detail-driven Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems in a regulated biotech manufacturing environment. This ...

TMC Technologies

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Location Washington, DC 20001 US (Primary) Category Information Technology Job Type Full-time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree Travel None Security ...

New

Saic

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have a ...

SAIC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have ...

Nastech Global

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Automation Engineer Location: Washington, DC (5 days onsite) Clearance Required: Top Secret Job Type: Contract W2 Top Skills Python CI/CD Bachelors' Degree Testing experience with anything Automation ...

New

Goodwin

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our Enterprise Applications team. This role will focus on designing, developing,deploying and supporting automation/orchestration ...

SAIC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have ...

SAIC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have a ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Columbia, MD

Automation Engineer information

See Columbia, MD salary details

$36.4K

$105.4K

$160.4K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Columbia, MD is $105,448.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,100.00 and $121,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation engineer?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What does an automation engineer do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

What are some common challenges automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

More about Automation Engineer jobs

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The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

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For Automation Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Columbia, MD are:

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Cities near Columbia, MD with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Columbia, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,448 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Automation Engineer

CBRE

Hyattsville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

CBRE rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 496 rated business services

Job description

Job Summary
At CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS), Safety is our top priority! We maintain a safety-first culture in which CBRE employees return home in the same condition in which they reported to work. We're looking for a skilled and forward-thinking FM Engineering Ops Sr Manager / Automation Engineering Manager (AEM) to join our growing team as we work to service one of the world's largest online retailers.
We offer competitive pay, a robust benefits package, wellness programs, and a workplace environment that embraces diversity. Come join our global network of professionals supporting client operations across CBRE.
Looking for a rewarding career in Engineering? Read on to learn more!
About the Role
In this vital leadership role as Automation Engineering Manager (AEM), the ideal candidate will manage a team responsible for supporting the operations of the customer's technical problems related to their automated material handling equipment (MHE).
Your expertise will be utilized to guide the team in the optimization and execution of the preventive maintenance process, with a focus on maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance of equipment such as conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print and apply systems, SCADA devices and programs.
You will provide our client with expert-level support based on the technical problems related to their MHE systems.
What You'll Do
  • Supervise and develop the Automation Engineering team through technical mentorship, performance management and ongoing training aligned to CBRE MHE standards.
  • Oversee daily engineering operations by directing workload planning, task assignment, and cross functional coordination to ensure timely completion of project activities.
  • Provide formal supervision to employees. Monitor the training and development of staff. Conduct performance evaluations and coaching. Oversee the recruiting and hiring of new employees.
  • Ensure that all expenditures are justified and aligned with company goals.
  • Ensure the team follows compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies.
  • Apply a broad knowledge of the business, own discipline, and how own discipline integrates with others to achieve team and departmental objectives.
  • Lead by example and model behaviors that are consistent with CBRE RISE values. Influence others to adopt a different point of view while being guided by policies and departmental plans.
  • Promote a safe working environment by complying with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives related to system operations and work safety.
  • Provide support with Material Handling Equipment (MHE) systems optimization and project implementation. Proactively and effectively communicate with multiple stakeholders including, but not limited to, leadership, operations and the maintenance team on technical issues and project timelines and production impacts.
  • Conduct failure analysis and incident review processes, implement process improvements and/or retraining to avoid future incidents.
  • Engineer process solutions and reliability improvement from concept to network implementation.
  • Coordinate technical resources to support commissioning, training, installation, and operational performance qualifications for new and existing facilities.
  • Monitor upkeep of material handling equipment (MHE), control systems, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, AS-Interface, Profibus, labeling and parcel sortation system, motor control systems, servo drives, frequency drives, and electrical distribution systems.
  • Assist with skill assessments of automation engineers as well as readiness audits and technical drills for sites supported.
  • Cultivate positive working relationships with our Client and the Operations Maintenance team members.
  • Apply advanced knowledge to seek and develop new, better methods for accomplishing both individual and department objectives.
  • Showcase expertise in Controls / Automation Engineering and in-depth knowledge of other job disciplines within the organization function.
  • Coach others to develop in-depth knowledge and expertise in most or all areas within the function.

What You'll Need
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Automation Engineering preferred, with 5-7 years of relevant experience. In lieu of a degree, a combination of experience and education may be considered.
  • Experience in at least two engineering design cycles including specification, component selection and programming.
  • 7+ years of experience with programming HMI components.
  • 7+ years of experience with Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) programs.
  • 7+ years of experience with robotics system components and controls.
  • 7+ years of experience with SCADA systems.
  • Excellent communication, presentation, and analytical skills and the ability to solve advanced problems in complex situations.
  • Experience in the areas of staffing, selection, training, development, coaching, mentoring, measuring, appraising, and rewarding performance and retention is preferred.
  • Ability to lead the exchange of sensitive, complicated, and difficult information, convey performance expectations and handle problems.
  • Leadership skills to motivate the team to achieve broad operational targets with impacts on own job discipline, multiple job disciplines, and department.
  • Ability to exercise judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information and make recommendations in support of the client and company.
  • Intermediate Microsoft Office Suite experience (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)
  • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time to various sites within your assigned region.
  • Ability to be available and work a flexible schedule/shift/work area, including weekends, nights, and/or holidays.
  • Meet the physical requirements of this role including stooping, standing, walking, climbing stairs/ladders, and the ability to lift/carry heavy loads of 50 lbs. or more.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Automation Engineering.
  • Experience with crafting automated alarms, reports, metrics for plant management, and HMI for operational equipment configuration/settings.
  • 7+ years Allen Bradley PLC programming experience using RSLogix 5000 and RSLinx experience with at least two full cycles of PLC ladder logic code design, development and testing.
  • Willingness to take a new perspective on existing solutions.
  • In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office product s(Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  • Organizational skills with an advanced inquisitive mindset.
  • Sophisticated math skills. Ability to calculate mildly complex figures such as percentages, fractions, and other financial-related calculations.
  • Project management and development methodology experience.
CBRE Employee Benefits
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, vision
  • Disability benefit program
  • 401k company matching
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Company paid life insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • Paid parental leave
Why CBRE?
We invest in our employees' development. The core of our strategy is the view that development happens through three key activities: on-the-job learning, coaching and formal training. We provide employees with resources that support them in developing skills to enhance performance in their current role as well as for future roles.
CBRE carefully considers multiple factors to determine compensation, including a candidate's education, training, and experience. The minimum salary for the position is $108,492 annually [or $52.16 per hour] and the maximum salary for the position is $120,556 annually [or $57.96 per hour]. The compensation that is offered to a successful candidate will depend on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience.
Equal Employment Opportunity: CBRE has a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Candidate Accommodations: CBRE values the differences of all current and prospective employees and recognizes how every employee contributes to our company's success. CBRE provides reasonable accommodations in job application procedures for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance due to a disability in the application or recruitment process, please submit a request via email at recruitingaccommodations@cbre.com or via telephone at +1 866 225 3099 (U.S.) and +1 866 388 4346 (Canada).
CBRE GWS
CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) works with clients to make real estate a meaningful contributor to organizational productivity and performance. Our account management model is at the heart of our client-centric approach to delivering integrated real estate solutions. Each client is entrusted with a dedicated leader and is supported by regional and global resources, leveraging the industry's most robust platform. CBRE GWS delivers consistent, measurably superior outcomes for our clients at every stage of the lifecycle, and across industries and geographies.
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About CBRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The real estate industry is undergoing significant and exciting change, increasingly driven by data and technology. At CBRE, the world's premier commercial real estate services company, we empower teams to take ownership over that technology and shape it, offering both nimble, research-driven product design and the resources of a Fortune 500 business. We approach culture with intention, valuing camaraderie, collaboration, inclusivity and a healthy work/life balance. The user experience team is passionate about the quality, usability, and simplicity of the experiences we create. Individuals in these roles gather these key user insights, and then use them to inspire and inform product strategy and design solutions. We partner closely with each other, engineering, and product management to create innovative, usable, great-looking products.

Industry

Real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

1906

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