1

Automation Manufacturing Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities Support automation projects related to manufacturing, utilities, and lab systems (e.g., bioreactors, chromatography skids, CIP/SIP systems). Develop, modify, and troubleshoot ...

Senior Automation Consultant

Gaithersburg, MD · Hybrid

$112K - $147K/yr

Candidates with extensive pharmaceutical, biotech, or GMP manufacturing automation experience are encouraged to apply. What You'll Be Doing * Serve as a senior automation advisor for a large-scale ...

New

Key Responsibilities • Support automation projects related to manufacturing, utilities, and lab systems (e.g., bioreactors, chromatography skids, CIP/SIP systems). • Develop, modify, and ...

This Automation & Controls Engineer plays a hands-on role supporting and enhancing the automated ... Working within GMP manufacturing and laboratory environments, the position focuses on ...

Be Seen First

Automation Technician

Reston, VA · On-site

$68K - $76K/yr

Position Overview ESI Total Fuel Management is seeking an experienced Automation Technician to ... engineering, manufacturing, and services company supporting mission critical data centers and ...

Design and develop new programs to control manufacturing and R&D equipment and maintain the ... Configure, validate, and troubleshoot automation software. * Write requirement and technical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Manufacturing information

See Washington salary details

$52.1K

$113.8K

$154.6K

How much do automation manufacturing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation manufacturing in Washington is $113,778.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $125,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do professionals in Automation Manufacturing typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new automated systems?

In Automation Manufacturing, professionals regularly work alongside engineers, production staff, and quality assurance teams to design and integrate new automated solutions. This collaboration often involves participating in project meetings, sharing technical requirements, and troubleshooting issues together during system installation and testing. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as these teams must ensure that automation aligns with production goals, safety standards, and cost constraints. Such teamwork not only streamlines implementation but also helps identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation.

What is the difference between Automation Manufacturing vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectAutomation ManufacturingManufacturing Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, associate degrees in automation or roboticsHigh school diploma or technical training, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentFactories with automated systems, control roomsProduction floors, assembly lines
Industry UsageDesign, program, and maintain automated equipmentOperate and troubleshoot manufacturing machinery

Automation Manufacturing professionals focus on developing, programming, and maintaining automated systems used in production. Manufacturing Technicians primarily operate and troubleshoot machinery on the factory floor. While both roles work in manufacturing environments, Automation Manufacturing involves more technical skills related to automation technology, whereas Manufacturing Technicians focus on hands-on equipment operation.

What is automation manufacturing?

Automation manufacturing refers to the use of various control systems, such as computers or robots, and information technologies to handle different processes and machinery in an industry. This approach is designed to increase the efficiency, quality, and consistency of production while reducing human intervention and operational costs. Automated manufacturing can include everything from assembly lines and packaging to quality control and logistics. It is widely used in industries such as automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.

Is AI taking over manufacturing jobs?

Automation manufacturing jobs are increasingly supported by AI and robotics, which can improve efficiency and safety. However, many roles still require human oversight, problem-solving, and technical skills, making complete job displacement unlikely in the near term.

What is automation in the manufacturing industry?

Automation in manufacturing involves using technology such as robotics, control systems, and software to perform production tasks with minimal human intervention. Automation manufacturing jobs often require knowledge of machinery, programming, and troubleshooting to improve efficiency and safety in production processes.

What does an automation engineer do in manufacturing?

An automation engineer in manufacturing designs, develops, and maintains automated systems and processes to improve production efficiency and quality. They work with control systems, robotics, and programming languages like PLCs and SCADA, often requiring knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and ensuring safety standards are met.

What are some examples of automated manufacturing?

Automated manufacturing involves using machines and robotics to perform production tasks with minimal human intervention. Examples include robotic arms assembling cars, CNC machines cutting and shaping materials, and conveyor systems transporting products through different manufacturing stages. These systems improve efficiency, precision, and safety in manufacturing environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Automation Manufacturing, and why are they important?

To thrive in Automation Manufacturing, you need a solid background in industrial engineering, robotics, and process optimization, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, and certifications such as Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient production processes, minimizing downtime, and continually improving manufacturing performance.
Infographic showing various Automation Manufacturing job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 77% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,778 per year, or $54.7 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Catalent rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Automation Engineer

Position Summary:

  • Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm.
  • 100% on-site

Catalent's Baltimore and Harmans, Maryland sites provide industry-leading GMP development and manufacturing services for advanced biopharmaceuticals, including viral vectors, next-generation vaccines, and oncolytic viruses. Our FDA-licensed, state-of-the-art Gene Therapy manufacturing campus in Harmans/BWI features two facilities located just five miles from BWI Airport and 13 miles from downtown Baltimore. The 200,000 sq. ft. Harmans/BWI-1 facility includes 10 GMP suites, fill/finish operations, testing labs, and warehousing, while the 145,000 sq. ft. Harmans/BWI-2 site under development will add 8 GMP suites and expanded cold storage. Together, the campus offers a dynamic environment at the center of Maryland's biotechnology and research corridor.

The Engineer, Automation will provide key support for various manufacturing systems. This will include Programmable Logic controllers (PLC), OSI-PI for Data Historian, IGNITION for data reporting & remote alarms, process equipment such as Single-Use (SU) Bioreactors, SU Chromatography, Purification & Filtration systems, and Other Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) systems in Manufacturing suites and QC labs. Under the direction of the senior engineers, this role will be responsible for trouble-shooting challenging equipment / automation issues to improve manufacturing performance (e.g. yield improvements, etc.) and maintaining the automation systems in compliance with cGMPs.

The Role

  • Establish the appropriate controls and administrate the automated and computerized systems
  • Support of a large-scale capital project to develop and implement automation systems in a new manufacturing area, then continued support of those systems as described throughout the description
  • Understand and support all GMPs, safety, and environmental regulations. Periodically reviews automation documents, preventive and corrective maintenance, and SOPs to ensure compliance with GMP and safety.
  • On atypical automation situations, develops and supports corrective actions.
  • Uses technical knowledge to assure the efficient operation of variety of automated processing and information technology systems. Supports installing and placing new equipment into operations.
  • Ensures compliance to FDA regulations and follows GAMP in task execution, including change control and deviation investigations. Participates in audits and training programs for automated systems
  • On-floor support of manufacturing, process development and laboratory activities.
  • Maintain technical documentation (manuals, drawings, software, etc.).
  • Provides client services support for business area applications.
  • Offer technical support for plant downtime and automation-related issues during after-hours and weekends, as required, in accordance with the established coverage schedule
  • Other duties as assigned.

The Candidate

  • Associate's degree in engineering, Information Technology, Science, or related field required; Bachelor's preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in an automation role supporting process, laboratory, or facility equipment; 2+ years preferred.
  • Knowledge of bioprocess equipment (e.g., SU Bioreactors, Chromatography, Filtration) required.
  • Experience with PLC programming and automation support in GMP environments preferred
  • Familiarity with OSI-PI and IGNITION systems preferred.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral) are required.
  • Position requires regular standing, walking, bending, and climbing; occasional lifting up to 30 lbs; manual dexterity to operate tools and equipment; clear visual inspection and documentation skills; and the ability to work in confined spaces or at a computer as needed, while adhering to all PPE and safety requirements.

The anticipated salary range for this position in Maryland is $80,000 to $110,000 plus an annual bonus, when eligible. The final salary offered to a successful candidate may vary, and will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to: the type and length of experience within the job, type and length of experience within the industry, skillset, education, business needs, etc. Catalent is a multi-state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work in other states.

Why you should Join Catalent

  • Potential for career growth within an expanding team.
  • Defined career path and annual performance review & feedback process.
  • Cross-functional exposure to other areas within the organization.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401K are all offered from day one of employment.
  • 152 hours of PTO and 8 paid holidays.
  • Opportunity to work on Continuous Improvement Processes

Catalent offers rewarding opportunities to further your career! Join the global drug development and delivery leader and help us bring over 7,000 life-saving and life-enhancing products to patients around the world. Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.

personal initiative. dynamic pace. meaningful work.

Visit Catalent Careers to explore career opportunities.

Catalent is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans.

If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email, and confirming your request for an accommodation and include the job number, title and location to DisabilityAccommodations@catalent.com. This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability. Information received will be processed by a U.S. Catalent employee and then routed to a local recruiter who will provide assistance to ensure appropriate consideration in the application or hiring process.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Catalent Pharma Solutions (Catalent) is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Catalent employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Catalent. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.

Important Security Notice to U.S. Job Seekers:

Catalent NEVER asks candidates to provide any type of payment, bank details, photocopies of identification, social security number or other highly sensitive personal information during the offer process, and we NEVER do so via email or social media. If you receive any such request, DO NOT respond- it is a fraudulent request. Please forward such requests to spam@catalent.com for us to investigate with local authorities.

California Job Seekers can find our California Job Applicant Notice HERE.


What Catalent employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Catalent logo

About Catalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.Catalent is committed to the health and safety of its employees, visitors and the customers and patients we serve.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Somerset, NJ, US

Year founded

2007

Social media