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Automation Engineer Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Hardware Engineer, Automation

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges. This role requires deep experience ...

Senior Hardware Engineer, Automation

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges. This role requires deep experience ...

Senior Hardware Engineer, Automation

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges. This role requires deep experience ...

What You'll Need • Demonstrated expertise in programming and configuring building automation controllers, sensors, actuators, and associated equipment. • Solid understanding of mechanical systems ...

We are looking for a highly skilled Senior Automation & AI Engineer to join our Quality Engineering team, bringing deep expertise in backend and services testing with cutting-edge knowledge of LLMs ...

Sr AI&T Engineer (Automation)

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Sr Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) Engineer, Automation About Us: BlackSky is a real-time intelligence company. We own and operate the world's most advanced space-based intelligence platform and ...

Sr AI&T Engineer (Automation)

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Sr Assembly, Integration & Test (AI&T) Engineer, Automation About Us: BlackSky is a real-time intelligence company. We own and operate the world's most advanced space-based intelligence platform and ...

Senior Automation Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

Our team is looking for outstanding, highly motivated, solutions developers who love listening to ... Ladder, ST, C/C++) * 10+ years experience with controls and automation software development ...

Role: Automation developer Location: Bellevue, WA Duration: 5 months Contract Description: 5 or more years of experience in deployment automation using Chef, Puppet, Ansible. 10 or more years of ...

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Automation Engineer information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$41.3K

$119.6K

$182K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Federal Way, WA is $119,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,600.00 and $137,900.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Federal Way, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,632 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Senior Hardware Engineer, Automation

Amazon

Seattle, WA • On-site

$118K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7,111 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Amazon is seeking a Senior Hardware Engineer to lead the evaluation, customization, and deployment of automated mechanical systems that support our advanced robotics programs. This role serves as the technical lead for mechanical hardware strategy, vendor engagement, system integration, and operational readiness across a range of automation platforms.
You will partner with internal engineering teams and external vendors to deliver robust, production-ready mechanical solutions for complex automation challenges. This role requires deep experience with automated assembly systems, robotic platforms, material handling, and safety systems, along with the ability to think holistically-connecting vendor evaluation, mechanical design, and system-level performance

You will act as a technical leader within the broader engineering organization, driving alignment and execution across design, quality, and manufacturing domains.
Key job responsibilities
- Own end-to-end evaluation and selection of commercially available automation solutions, critically assessing designs against internal use cases and driving informed make-versus-buy decisions
- Work directly with vendors to customize mechanical and automation solutions to address varied and demanding requirements, leading technical evaluation, qualification, and deployment
- Deep dive mechanical failures during pilots and early deployments to identify root causes, critically evaluate vendor assertions, and drive corrective actions
- Independently design, develop, and validate mechanical hardware for automated systems including workstations, robotic arms, safety systems, material handling, and part load/unload mechanisms
- Develop and deliver detailed CAD models, engineering drawings, trade studies, and technical documentation using SolidWorks or NX
- Define fixturing, tooling, and workholding strategies to ensure repeatability, precision, and efficient integration across automation platforms
- Build and manage relationships with automation OEMs, system integrators, and component suppliers, leading technical discussions and driving accountability for deliverables
- Collaborate cross-functionally with systems engineers, product managers, and manufacturing teams to ensure cohesive planning, integration, and execution of automated solutions
- Establish and maintain comprehensive documentation including design reviews, failure analyses, process validation records, and standard operating procedures
- Contribute to the growth of the engineering team by mentoring peers, training junior engineers, and participating in design reviews and hiring activities
- Evaluate emerging automation technologies, materials, and techniques and recommend strategic investments to enhance capabilities


What Amazon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate, computer and electronic product manufacturing and software development

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US