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Automation Scientist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Rockville, VA · On-site

... science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 2+ years of robotics work cells and control systems experience - Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical ...

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Prince George, VA · On-site

... science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 2+ years of PLC programming or automation engineering experience - Work flexible schedule including weekends, nights, and ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Hampton, VA · On-site

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Norfolk, VA

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

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All JobsAutomation Scientist JobsAutomation Scientist Jobs in Virginia

Automation Scientist information

See Virginia salary details

$56.9K

$90.3K

$121.1K

How much do automation scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation scientist in Virginia is $90,345.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,590.00 and $106,978.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical day look like for an automation scientist?

A typical day for an Automation Scientist involves designing experiments, programming and maintaining automated instruments, troubleshooting system issues, and analyzing output data to ensure experiment accuracy. You’ll likely collaborate with research scientists, lab technicians, and engineers to optimize workflows and support ongoing projects. Automation Scientists often spend time reviewing protocols, documenting procedures, and providing training on new systems or technologies. The role offers a varied mix of hands-on technical work and collaborative problem-solving, creating an engaging work environment with the opportunity to contribute directly to scientific innovation.

What is an automation scientist?

An automation scientist is a professional who develops and implements automated processes and systems, often in industries like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, or technology. They use tools such as robotics, software, and data analysis to improve efficiency and accuracy in laboratory or production environments, typically requiring knowledge of programming, engineering, or scientific principles.

What does an automation scientist do?

An Automation Scientist develops, implements, and optimizes automated systems for scientific research and industrial processes. They work with robotics, software, and laboratory instrumentation to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability in experiments or production workflows. Their role often involves programming, troubleshooting automation issues, and collaborating with scientists and engineers to streamline complex tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation scientist?

Thrive as an Automation Scientist by possessing a strong background in life sciences or engineering, along with expertise in laboratory automation, assay development, and data analysis. Familiarity with automation platforms (such as Hamilton, Tecan, or Beckman), scripting languages (like Python or VB), and quality control standards is highly valued, and certifications in automation or laboratory management can be advantageous. Effective problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams help individuals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for implementing, optimizing, and troubleshooting automated laboratory workflows to increase productivity and ensure reliable results.

Is automation testing a good career?

Automation Scientist roles involve developing and maintaining automated tests to improve software quality and efficiency. The field offers strong job growth, requires skills in programming, testing tools, and understanding of software development processes. It is a valuable career path for those interested in quality assurance and technology innovation.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Scientist jobs in Virginia? For Automation Scientist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Scientist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Scientist jobs in Virginia are:
Automation Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Scientist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,345 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Assistant Scientist - Automation

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Thermo Fisher Scientific rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 422 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

Work Schedule
First Shift (Days)
Environmental Conditions
Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance, Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.), Will work with hazardous/toxic materials
Job Description
At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you'll discover meaningful work that makes a positive impact on a global scale. Join our colleagues in bringing our Mission to life - enabling our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We provide our teams with the resources needed to achieve individual career goals while taking science a step beyond through research, development and delivery of life-changing therapies. With clinical trials conducted in 100+ countries and ongoing development of novel frameworks for clinical research through our PPD clinical research portfolio, our work spans laboratory, digital and decentralized clinical trial services. Your determination to deliver quality and accuracy will improve health outcomes that people and communities depend on - now and in the future.
Our PPD® Laboratory Services team has a direct impact on improving patient health through the expertise of scientists, industry thought-leaders and therapeutic experts. As the world leader in serving science, our laboratory professionals bring their commitment to accuracy and quality to deliver groundbreaking innovations.
Location/Division Specific Information
  • Department: Immunochemistry - Automation
  • Location: Richmond, VA
  • Full time, Benefits, Annual Bonus, 401k Match, and PTO

Discover Impactful Work:
Performs a variety of routine to complex sample preparation and analysis procedures to quantitatively measure pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical compounds in a variety of formulations and/or biological matrices. Follows validated or experimental analytical procedures with periodic direct supervision. Responsible for review and compilation of results and data comparison against SOP acceptance criteria, methodology, protocol and product specifications.
A day in the Life:
  • Consistently documents accurately within appropriate documentation system
  • Instrument maintenance of high-end automated/technical equipment
  • Develops basic troubleshooting skills (hardware and/or software)
  • Operates with direct supervision
  • Power User proficiency (CAL/QC/SPF Preps, Sample Dilution Block Preps, etc.)
  • Follows best practices and SOP requirements
  • Developing communication skills
  • Adheres to GLP principles during all activities
  • Develops time management skills

Education
  • Bachelor's degree in lab sciences such as biology, biochemistry, immunology, chemistry, molecular biology or similar

Experience
  • Previous experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job (comparable to 0-1 year) or equivalent combination of education, training, & experience.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities
  • Support testing and analysis in the immunochemistry and vaccine department (run assays, prepare samples, lab documentation)
  • Manual dexterity (pipetting, operate lab equipment, etc.)
  • Experience performing immunoassays, ELISA or similar testing
  • Communicate effectively and follow detailed written and verbal instruction.
  • Cooperate with coworkers within an organized team environment or work alone with supervision.
  • Manage time effectively to complete assignments in expected time frame.
  • Maintain a laboratory notebook and complete all documentation with clear and accurate language and according to the SOP.
  • Proficient in the use of analytical instrumentation
  • Ability to plan, schedule and carry out work for successful project completion.
  • Familiar with operating computers and data acquisition programs.
  • Positive attitude and ability to work well with others.

Work Environment:
Thermo Fisher Scientific values the health and wellbeing of our employees. We support and encourage individuals to create a healthy and balanced environment where they can thrive. Below is listed the working environment/requirements for this role:
  • Able to communicate, receive, and understand information and ideas with diverse groups of people in a comprehensible and reasonable manner.
  • Able to work upright and stationary and/or standing for typical working hours.
  • Able to lift and move objects up to 25 pounds.
  • Able to work in non-traditional work environments.
  • Able to use and learn standard office equipment and technology with proficiency.
  • May have exposure to potentially hazardous elements, including infectious agents, typically found in healthcare or laboratory environments.
  • Able to perform successfully under pressure while prioritizing and handling multiple projects or activities.

Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Watch as our colleagues explain 5 reasons to work with us. As one team of 100,000+ colleagues, we share a common set of values - Integrity, Intensity, Innovation and Involvement - working together to accelerate research, solve complex scientific challenges, drive technological innovation and support patients in need. #StartYourStory with PPD, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, where diverse experiences, backgrounds and perspectives are valued.
Apply today! http://jobs.thermofisher.com
Thermo Fisher Scientific is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.
Accessibility/Disability Access
  • Job Seekers with a Disability: Thermo Fisher Scientific offers accessibility service for job seekers requiring accommodations in the job application process. For example, this may include individuals requiring assistance because of hearing, vision, mobility, or cognitive impairments. If you are a job seeker with a disability, or assisting a person with a disability, and require accessibility assistance or an accommodation to apply for one of our jobs, please submit a request by telephone at 1-855-471-2255*. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process.
    *This telephone line is reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requiring accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Messages left for other purposes, such as not being able to get into the career website, following up on an application, or other non-disability related technical issues will not receive a response.

Compensation and Benefits
The hourly pay range estimated for this position based in Virginia is $20.00-$26.00.
This position may also be eligible to receive a variable annual bonus based on company, team, and/or individual performance results in accordance with company policy. We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can count on, which includes:
  • A choice of national medical and dental plans, and a national vision plan, including health incentive programs
  • Employee assistance and family support programs, including commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement
  • At least 120 hours paid time off (PTO), 10 paid holidays annually, paid parental leave (3 weeks for bonding and 8 weeks for caregiver leave), accident and life insurance, and short- and long-term disability in accordance with company policy
  • Retirement and savings programs, such as our competitive 401(k) U.S. retirement savings plan
  • Employees' Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) offers eligible colleagues the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discount

For more information on our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.thermofisher.com/global/en/total-rewards

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