ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Trainee Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

All JobsAutomation JobsAutomation Trainee JobsAutomation Trainee Jobs in Washington, DC

Automation Trainee information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$23

$41

How much do automation trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation trainee in Washington, DC is $23.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation trainee?

Automation Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning the basics of automation systems, tools, and processes within a company or industry. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers or technicians to gain hands-on experience in programming, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated equipment. The goal for an Automation Trainee is to develop the skills necessary to support automation projects, such as process optimization, system integration, and quality control. Over time, trainees are expected to become proficient in using automation software, hardware, and protocols relevant to their field.

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

To thrive as an Automation Trainee, a solid grounding in engineering principles, computer science, or a related technical field is essential, often supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with PLC programming, industrial automation software, and tools such as SCADA systems or robotics platforms is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure the reliable development, maintenance, and improvement of automated systems, which are critical for operational efficiency and safety.

What types of projects or tasks can an automation trainee expect to work on during their first year?

As an Automation Trainee, you will typically be involved in supporting the design, testing, and implementation of automated systems under the guidance of experienced engineers. Early projects often include assisting with PLC programming, troubleshooting control systems, and documenting processes. You may also participate in team meetings and collaborate with other departments such as maintenance, IT, and production to ensure smooth integration of automation solutions. This hands-on experience helps build a solid foundation in automation technologies and prepares you for more complex responsibilities as you progress.

What is the difference between Automation Trainee vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation TraineeAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a diploma or ongoing education in engineering or related fieldsBachelor's degree or higher in engineering, automation, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, entry-level tasks, supervised settingsDesigning, developing, and maintaining automation systems in industrial or manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternships, apprenticeships, entry-level roles in manufacturing, automation, and engineering firmsEstablished companies in manufacturing, robotics, and process automation sectors

Automation Trainee roles are entry-level positions focused on learning and supporting automation processes, often requiring minimal experience. Automation Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for designing and implementing automation solutions. The trainee role serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a full Automation Engineer.

How to start a career in automation?

To start a career as an automation trainee, gain foundational knowledge in programming languages such as Python or Java, and learn about automation tools like Selenium or UiPath. Pursuing relevant certifications and gaining hands-on experience through internships or projects can also improve job prospects in automation roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Automation jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Trainee jobs in Washington, DC?

For Automation Trainee jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Trainee jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Trainee jobs in Washington, DC are:

Automation Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Trainee job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,823 per year, or $24 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer

Belay Technologies

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$168K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Belay Technologies has been voted Baltimore Business Journal's (BBJ) Best Places to Work 2019, runner up in 2020 and a finalist in 2021!
Belay Technologies is seeking a Senior System Engineer to join our intel team. You will be responsible for the administration and maintenance of quality control checkpoints (QCC) for the Customer. You will act as a support administrator and proctor for a practical examinations course where you will assist in the environment management, performance evaluation, and course systems improvement. You will work closely with training coordinators and SMEs on course evaluations and trainee performance recommendations. You will provide oversight and timely communication for trainees in the exam environment. You will be responsible for developing testable scenarios, configuring target devices, and setting up the virtual machines (VMs) used in testing.
Responsibilities:
  • Oversee exam environment and trainee communications
  • Coordinate course rosters and exam scheduling
  • Augment platforms with new tools and technologies
  • Maintain and develop scripts to help automate and streamline processes
  • Provide assessments and recommendations on trainee practical performance

Candidates should have the following qualifications:
  • TS/SCI Clearance with polygraph
  • 12 yrs., B.S. in a technical discipline or 4 additional yrs. in place of B.S.

Candidates are required to have the following skills:
  • Experience with CNO operational tradecraft and guidance
  • Experience with powershell, bash, python, etc.
  • Familiarity with Confluence, Mattermost, and Moodle
  • Knowledge of VSphere and virtual machines
  • Strong background in Windows exploitation and security

Candidates are desired to have the following skills:
  • Experience with Unix exploitation and security
  • Experience in scripting for VSphere and VM management
  • CNO operator certification

Perks and Benefits:
  • 8 weeks paid leave - 4 weeks of personal leave, 3 Yay! days, take off on your birthday,11 paid holidays and optional leave up to 6 days through Belay's volunteer program
  • 10% matching in 401(k) contributions vested on day one
  • $5,000 annual training/tuition
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • 100% company-funded HSA
  • Rich medical coverage (100% coinsurance)
  • Dental coverage including orthodontia
  • Up to $420,000 in life insurance, premiums 100% company funded
  • Amazon Prime, gym reimbursement, monthly lunches, games and prizes
  • Pet adoption program, generous referral bonus program, fun events, and more!

At Belay, we are committed to creating an environment where you can thrive both professionally and personally. We believe in transparency and fairness in compensation. Several factors influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, education, specific skills and competencies and certifications. Belay offers a competitive total compensation package that includes benefits and perks, a flexible work-life balance, and career development.
Salary Range: $168,000 to $240,000
Belay Technologies is a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business located in Columbia, Maryland (Baltimore/Washington area). Belay Technologies specializes in systems automation and full stack development. Belay Technologies provides leading technology and engineering solutions to the DoD, as well as state-of-the-art commercial products. We hire software engineers, web designers, test engineers, systems engineers, systems administrators, database engineers and other tech services. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Apply