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Automation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

InstantServe LLC

Automation Engineer

VA · On-site

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 designated team home ...

Raya Workforce

Automation Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Automation Engineer (Industrial Controls / PLC Systems) Location: Ashburn, VA (On-site) Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Compensation: Based on experience and current compensation About the ...

Griffin Global Systems

Automation Engineer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

Professional experience in automation engineering, system integration, or related technical roles. * Deep hands-on experience with UiPath or other RPA platforms (Blue Prism, Alteryx, etc.) * Strong ...

IQUASAR LLC

Gateway Automation Engineer

Sterling, VA · Remote

The Gateway Engineer will develop, validate, and maintain API-gateway automation components that integrate with Government-owned CI/CD pipelines and approved DevSecOps toolchains. This role focuses ...

BCMC

Data Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Data Automation Engineer will develop and implement automation solutions to support technology integration activities, focusing on data pipeline development, automated analysis workflows, and ...

BCMC

Data Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Data Automation Engineer will develop and implement automation solutions to support technology integration activities, focusing on data pipeline development, automated analysis workflows, and ...

DANE LLC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You will have a designated team home but ...

Nwis

Data Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

The Data Automation Engineer will develop and implement automation solutions to support technology integration activities, focusing on data pipeline development, automated analysis workflows, and ...

NewGen

Data Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

The Data Automation Engineer will develop and implement automation solutions to support technology integration activities, focusing on data pipeline development, automated analysis workflows, and ...

Nightwing

Data Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$99K - $206K/yr

The Data Automation Engineer will develop and implement automation solutions to support technology integration activities, focusing on data pipeline development, automated analysis workflows, and ...

Govcio LLC

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

GovCIO is currently hiring an Automation Engineer with an active Secret clearance to design, deploy, and manage modern endpoint management solutions that automate device provisioning, security ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Automation Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$41.9K

$121.3K

$184.6K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Washington, DC is $121,331.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $139,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Automation Engineers?

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 is the work of an automation engineer?

An automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that automate manufacturing processes, software testing, or other repetitive tasks. They use tools like PLCs, scripting languages, and control systems to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automation tools are essential for this role.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, control systems, and robotics, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation is often associated with leadership roles, working in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or technology, and may include bonuses or stock options.

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 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 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.

Will AI replace automation engineer?

AI is a tool that can automate certain tasks within an automation engineer's role, but it is unlikely to fully replace the profession. Automation engineers design, develop, and maintain complex systems that require human oversight, problem-solving, and adaptation. Skills in programming, systems integration, and understanding of industrial processes remain essential in the field.
More about Automation Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 65% In-person, 21% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,331 per year, or $58.3 per hour.
Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Quality Agents, LLC

Rockville, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Quality Agents, LLC offers validation and quality expertise to the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
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 role will play a key part in optimizing equipment performance, ensuring data integrity, and maintaining GMP compliance across automated systems.
The ideal candidate has experience with PLCs, SCADA, building management systems (BMS), and process automation in GMP settings.


Key Responsibilities


Support automation projects related to manufacturing, utilities, and lab systems (e.g., bioreactors, chromatography skids, CIP/SIP systems).
Develop, modify, and troubleshoot automation logic (PLC, SCADA, DCS) in support of process control and equipment integration.
Work closely with cross-functional teams on system requirements, design specifications, and commissioning/qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) activities.
Maintain and update automation-related documentation including functional specs, FRS, URS, and validation protocols.
Ensure compliance with 21 CFR Part 11, data integrity, GAMP5, and other relevant GMP regulations.
Collaborate with QA, Validation, Engineering, and IT to support system lifecycle management and change control.
Support deviation investigations, CAPAs, and root cause analysis for automation-related issues


Minimum Requirements:


B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
3+ years of experience in automation engineering within a biotech, pharmaceutical, or GMP-regulated environment.
Experience with automation platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, DeltaV, Rockwell, Wonderware/AVEVA, or similar.
Strong understanding of control systems, instrumentation, and network infrastructure in GMP settings.
Familiarity with automation validation and documentation standards.


Quality Agents offers a full suite of benefits for full-time employees including:


Health, dental and vision insurance
Life, AD&D and Disability Insurance
Health savings account for participants in our health plan
401k retirement plan
Paid time off
Paid holidays


Quality Agents accepts applications on an on-going basis in order to build a talent pool of potential candidates. These applications remain open for consideration, as positions become available, for one (1) year from the date of application. After that time, or if your application information changes, please submit your application again.

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