ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Technologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

vTech Solution

Automation Tech Lead

Richmond, VA · On-site

The ideal candidate will have expertise in automation, AI, cloud technologies (Azure), and Microsoft identity management, with hands-on experience using tools such as UI Path, Power Automate, GitHub ...

Cadence Inc

Principal Automation Engineer

Staunton, VA · On-site

$122K - $169K/yr

Identify emerging technologies and automation strategies that strengthen Cadence's competitive position and support growth objectives. Lead Complex Automation Projects * Lead automation projects to ...

Cadence Inc

Principal Automation Engineer

Staunton, VA · On-site

$122K - $169K/yr

Identify emerging technologies and automation strategies that strengthen Cadence's competitive position and support growth objectives. Lead Complex Automation Projects * Lead automation projects to ...

Dorsett Controls

Automation Engineer

Vinton, VA

$100K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer - Controls Engineering Expertise Needed (On-site) Location: Vinton, VA Work ... With a commitment to precision, reliability, and cutting-edge technology, we help organizations ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Azure Automation Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

From Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Marketing & Communications, and Information Technology ... Develop automation solutions for device compliance monitoring, remediation, patching, and reporting.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Technologist JobsAutomation Technologist Jobs in Virginia

Automation Technologist information

See Virginia salary details

$37.2K

$45.2K

$70.4K

How much do automation technologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation technologist in Virginia is $45,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $41,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automation Technologist, you need a solid background in electronics, instrumentation, control systems, and a relevant diploma or degree in automation or engineering technology. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications such as ISA CAP or Siemens TIA Portal is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable automation of industrial processes, minimizing downtime and optimizing productivity.

What is the difference between Automation Technologist vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation TechnologistAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, automation, or related fields; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds engineering degrees and certifications in automation systems
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation service providersWorks in industrial, manufacturing, or process industries, often in design and development roles
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing companies, automation service firms, and industrial facilitiesCommonly employed by engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and system integrators

Automation Technologists focus on implementing and maintaining automation systems, often working hands-on with equipment. Automation Engineers typically design, develop, and optimize automation processes. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly, with technologists more involved in operational support and engineers in system design.

What is an automation technologist?

Automation Technologists are professionals who design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot automated systems used in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and process control. They work with hardware and software to ensure machines and processes operate efficiently and safely. Their role often includes programming controllers, integrating sensors, and optimizing systems to improve productivity and reduce human intervention. Automation Technologists bridge the gap between engineering and IT, making them vital for modern industrial operations.

What are some common challenges automation technologists face when integrating new systems into existing manufacturing environments?

Automation Technologists often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy equipment and modern automation solutions, minimizing downtime during installation, and training staff on new technologies. They must also troubleshoot integration issues and perform rigorous testing to ensure seamless operation. Effective communication with engineers, IT professionals, and production teams is essential to address these challenges and achieve successful system implementation.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Technologist jobs in Virginia? For Automation Technologist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Technologist jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Technologist jobs in Virginia are:
Automation Technologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Technologist 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 $45,165 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Automation and Analytic Modeling Engineer

FTS International LLC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$149K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

FTS International, LLC (FTS) is committed to providing the Federal Government with quality consultants and support. To ensure mission success we focus on putting our customers first while minimizing corporate bureaucracy on our staff. We provide Subject Matter Experts (SME) free of Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI) focused on independent analysis and mission support services within the disciplines of Engineering, Counter Terrorism Operations, Management, Information Technology, Signals Analysis, Administration, Cyber Security and Linguistics.
FTS has an opportunity for an Automation and Analytic Modeling Engineer in Chantilly, VA.
The Automation and Analytic Modeling Engineer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing advanced analytic modeling, automation, and data processing solutions to accelerate the extraction of actionable insights from GEOINT and related intelligence data sources.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and implement analytic models, algorithms, and automated workflows to extract insights from GEOINT and multi-source intelligence data
  • Leverage advanced modeling, simulation, machine learning, statistical analysis, and visualization tools to identify patterns, trends, and mission-relevant intelligence
  • Develop and optimize automated collection, exploitation, processing, and dissemination (PED) strategies to improve efficiency and accelerate intelligence delivery
  • Collaborate with engineers, analysts, data scientists, mission partners, and government stakeholders to translate operational challenges into technical solutions
  • Integrate emerging technologies, automation frameworks, and analytic capabilities into operational environments
  • Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise regarding GEOINT data exploitation, automation technologies, and advanced analytics
  • Identify innovative approaches and non-traditional solutions to solve challenging intelligence problems and accelerate mission outcomes
  • Support system testing, validation, and performance assessment activities to ensure operational effectiveness and mission readiness
  • Prepare technical documentation, engineering reports, briefings, and recommendations for government leadership and stakeholders

Required Skills/Qualifications
  • TS/SCI with polygraph
  • BS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) in engineering discipline
  • 9+ years' relevant experience
  • Expertise in data analytics, systems engineering, automation technologies, and intelligence workflows to enhance mission effectiveness, improve collection strategies, and reduce the time required to deliver meaningful intelligence to end users
  • Demonstrated experience using analytic modeling tools and techniques to derive actionable insights from GEOINT, geospatial, imagery, or intelligence data
  • Experience developing and implementing automated collection, processing, exploitation, and analytic workflows
  • Strong understanding of GEOINT data sources, collection methodologies, and intelligence analysis processes
  • Experience with scripting and automation technologies such as Python, R, MATLAB, Java, or similar languages
  • Knowledge of data engineering, machine learning, artificial intelligence, statistical analysis, and data visualization methodologies
  • Ability to evaluate complex technical challenges and develop innovative, mission-focused solutions
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience briefing technical and non-technical stakeholders

Desired Skills/Qualifications
  • MS STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) in engineering discipline
  • Experience supporting National Security Space, GEOINT, ISR, or intelligence community programs
  • Experience integrating commercial and government analytic platforms into operational workflows

Expected Salary Range: $149,000 - $170,000 per year. Placement within the range is determined by qualifications, job-related criteria, experience, internal equity and market considerations. In addition, FTS International, LLC has benefits offerings in addition to salary to include Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
FTS International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer - vets/disabled.

Apply