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Automation Jobs in Kennewick, WA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Technical Business Developer - Grid Automation

WA · Remote

$106K - $139K/yr

S. growth by identifying new utility/industrial automation opportunities, shaping market penetration strategy, and securing product homologation with key utilities. * Technical engagement - Act as a ...

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Automation information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$31.4K

$118.2K

$171.8K

How much do automation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation in Kennewick, WA is $118,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $140,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automation and what does an automation professional do?

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. Automation professionals design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in various industries, such as manufacturing, IT, and business operations. Their work often involves programming, configuring control systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. The goal is to improve productivity, reduce errors, and lower operational costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an automation engineer role?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong foundation in programming, process control, and systems integration, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and scripting languages, as well as certifications such as ISA or Siemens, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing efficient automated processes, minimizing errors, and ensuring operational reliability.

What is the job outlook for careers in the automation industry?

Automation is a fast-growing field, and demand for people with advanced qualifications is high. Jobs in automation primarily fall into three categories: designing and building automated machines, maintaining these machines, and programming automation software. Many jobs in this field require a significant amount of industrial engineering or robotics experience. Fulfilling job responsibilities in this industry often requires engineering, math, and communication skills as well as familiarity with programming. Someone in this field may also need to be familiar with electrical systems, delivery pipelines, configuration management tools, networking, or databases to get a job in this industry.

What are some common challenges faced by automation professionals when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Automation professionals often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy systems and new automation tools, ensuring minimal downtime during transitions, and maintaining data integrity. Additionally, coordinating with IT and operations teams is crucial to address security concerns and user training needs. Being proactive in communication and thorough in planning helps to streamline integration and minimize disruptions.

What is the difference between Automation vs Robotics Technician?

AspectAutomationRobotics Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in PLC programming, control systems, or automation softwareRequires certifications or training in robotics, electronics, and mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation system integrationWorks on robotic systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting in similar industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed broadly across manufacturing, automotive, and process industriesSpecialized in robotic system installation, repair, and programming within those industries

Automation professionals focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems, while Robotics Technicians specialize in robotic hardware, troubleshooting, and repair. Both roles often overlap but differ in technical focus and certifications required.

What are popular job titles related to Automation jobs in Kennewick, WA?

For Automation jobs in Kennewick, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Kennewick, WA are hiring for Automation jobs?

Cities near Kennewick, WA with the most Automation job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation job openings in Kennewick, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $118,179 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

Automation & Control Systems Engineer 3

Sargent & Lundy

Richland, WA • On-site

$74K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 452 rated engineering


Job description

Description

As a member of a multi-disciplined project team, this position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background and work experience in Automation and Control Systems Engineering.

  • Work on project teams with other I&C and Automation engineers involved in the design of new Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) based control systems, Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), and other industrial control system platforms
  • Involved in the preparation of specifications and design media for the procurement and implementation of software, instrumentation, and control system platforms
  • Through mentoring, classroom-style technical sessions, and on-the-job training in our Automation Lab, you will increase your knowledge and skills in Automation/Control Systems Engineering
  • Develop your career via peer learning by way of S&L's systems of process and associated "Communities of Practice"
Qualifications

Must be a U.S. Citizen; Dual citizenship with a country other than the U.S. does not qualify.

Essential skills and experience:

  • Must be able to obtain US Government security clearance
  • BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program; MS degree preferred
  • 3+ years of progressively responsible experience in instrumentation and controls or automation and control systems engineering
  • Self-motivated, have a strong willingness to learn, be able to work independently as well as with a multi-disciplined team, and have excellent organizational and communication skills

Valued, but not required skills and experience:

  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE/EIT) Certificate
  • Experienced with programming Rockwell RSLogix 5000 and RSView
  • Fabrication, Construction, and Instrumentation & Control System Testing
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$74,353 - $113,595Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit

Sargent & Lundy's Government Services Division provides cutting-edge engineering design and consulting support to the management and operating contractors for US Department of Energy (DOE) sites and national laboratories. Specifically, we support the DOE Environmental Management Directorate as well as the National Nuclear Security Administration laboratories and sites. What does this mean? You can be a part of multi-discipline design teams supporting projects cleaning up the environmental damage associated with the legacy nuclear weapons production complex and/or preserving our country's nuclear deterrent. Sargent & Lundy's personnel design facilities, systems, and equipment that treat, store, and dispose of nuclear waste as well as systems that safely handle and process nuclear material. This mission-critical work is meaningful and challenging-work you can be proud of.

Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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