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Automation Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Catalyx is seeking an Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides technical leadership for the design, implementation, validation, and lifecycle support of automation systems supporting biologics ...

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Automation Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Koniag IT Systems (KITS) is seeking a skilled Automation Engineer to join a high-performing IT operations team supporting enterprise service management environments. The ideal candidate is a ...

Catalyx is seeking an Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides technical leadership for the design, implementation, validation, and lifecycle support of automation systems supporting biologics ...

We are seeking a hands-on and detail-driven Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems in a regulated biotech manufacturing environment. This ...

Catalyx is seeking an Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides technical leadership for the design, implementation, validation, and lifecycle support of automation systems supporting biologics ...

We are seeking a highly motivated Automation Engineer to join our Enterprise Applications team. This role will focus on designing, developing,deploying and supporting automation/orchestration ...

We are seeking a hands-on and detail-driven Automation Engineer to support the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems in a regulated biotech manufacturing environment. This ...

Catalyx is seeking an Automation & IT Integration Engineer with a strong background in process control systems and industrial automation. This role serves as a key interface between Automation/OT and ...

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have a ...

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have ...

MAINFRAME AUTOMATION SME

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Mainframe Automation SME Location: Vienna VA - Hybrid Pay Rate: Open to Both C2C and W2 options Position Type: Multiyear Contract Description : * Strong ability to investigate operational, technical ...

Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Description We are seeking an Automation Engineer to work together across our DevOps teams, building broad expertise in infrastructure automation, CI/CD, and platform support. You'll have a ...

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Automation information

See Reston, VA salary details

$32.3K

$121.3K

$176.3K

How much do automation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation in Reston, VA is $121,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $144,600.00 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 Reston, VA?

For Automation jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Automation jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Automation job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,313 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

Automation SME

Catalyx

Gaithersburg, MD โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Catalyx is seeking an Automation Subject Matter Expert (SME) provides technical leadership for the design, implementation, validation, and lifecycle support of automation systems supporting biologics manufacturing operations. This role ensures automation solutions are reliable, compliant, secure, and aligned with industry standards while supporting upstream and downstream process performance. The SME works closely with engineering, manufacturing, quality, validation, and system integration teams to deliver scalable automation solutions throughout the project lifecycle.

Responsibilities

ยท       Provide technical leadership for automation systems supporting biologics manufacturing, including upstream, downstream, buffer/media preparation, and clean utility systems.

ยท       Develop and review automation architecture, control strategies, functional specifications, batch recipes, and system design documentation.

ยท       Support automation deployment strategies, technology evaluations, and digital manufacturing initiatives, including data integration and operational optimization.

ยท       Oversee system integration, commissioning, qualification, and validation activities, including FAT, SAT, IQ/OQ, and commissioning support.

ยท       Ensure automation systems comply with GMP, GAMP 5, ISA-88, ISA-95, data integrity, cybersecurity, and other applicable regulatory standards.

ยท       Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define process control requirements, batch reporting, system interfaces, and operational readiness.

ยท       Support risk assessments, alarm management, cybersecurity, and automation lifecycle management.

ยท       Provide technical guidance to vendors, system integrators, and internal engineering teams while promoting automation best practices and continuous improvement.

Requirements

ยท       Bachelor''s or Master''s degree in Automation, Electrical, Controls, Chemical, Process Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

ยท       8+ years of experience supporting automation systems in GMP biologics or pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.

ยท       Strong experience with DCS, PLC, SCADA, ISA-88 batch systems, process historians, MES/LIMS integration, and industrial networking.

ยท       Hands-on experience with biologics manufacturing processes, including bioreactors, chromatography, UF/DF, filtration, CIP/SIP, and clean utilities.

ยท       Working knowledge of GMP, GAMP 5, ISA-88, ISA-95, ISA/IEC 62443, ALCOA+, computerized system validation (CSV), and data integrity principles.

ยท       Experience leading automation system design, commissioning, qualification, troubleshooting, and lifecycle support.

ยท       Excellent communication, technical leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

ยท       Preferred certifications include ISA CAP, GAMP, Functional Safety, or relevant automation platform certifications.