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Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

AI Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · Remote

$80K - $145K/yr

About the Role Caplock Security is seeking an entry-level AI Automation Engineer to help design and implement AI-driven tools and automated workflows across our Proposal and Business Development ...

New

AI Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · Remote

$80K - $145K/yr

About the Role Caplock Security is seeking an entry-level AI Automation Engineer to help design and implement AI-driven tools and automated workflows across our Proposal and Business Development ...

New

AI Automation Engineer

Washington, DC · Remote

$80K - $145K/yr

About the Role Caplock Security is seeking an entry-level AI Automation Engineer to help design and implement AI-driven tools and automated workflows across our Proposal and Business Development ...

New

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation Engineer to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career. Position Summary The ...

Automation Engineer Junior

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation Engineer to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career. Position Summary The Automation Engineer ...

Automation Engineer Junior

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation Engineer to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career. Position Summary The ...

Description This role is an entry level position aimed at a blend of AI-focused project work ... Support AI and Automation projects post-deployment, acting as first level response. * Scoping ...

... entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your civil engineering ... AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve ...

This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your civil ... Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical ...

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications ... Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers * Assigns tasks and coordinates ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$41.9K

$121.3K

$184.6K

How much do entry level pharma automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level pharma automation engineer in Washington, DC is $121,331.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $139,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level pharma automation engineer do?

An Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer works on designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing environments. Their responsibilities often include programming equipment, troubleshooting automation issues, and ensuring that processes comply with regulatory standards. They collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize production efficiency, improve safety, and maintain product quality. This role provides foundational experience in both engineering and the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry.

What types of projects and technologies do entry level pharma automation engineers typically work on in their first year?

Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineers often begin their careers supporting the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of automation systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Common projects include assisting with the configuration of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and distributed control systems (DCS) to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements. You’ll likely work closely with senior engineers and cross-functional teams such as quality assurance, production, and IT, gaining hands-on experience with validation protocols and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This collaborative environment offers valuable exposure to industry-specific automation tools and prepares you for more advanced responsibilities as you progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level pharma automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering (such as chemical, electrical, or mechanical), understanding of automation principles, and a relevant degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry standards like GAMP or FDA regulations is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and problem-solving. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and efficient automation processes vital to pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control.

What is the difference between Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Pharma Automation EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Automation, or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing facilities, labs, automation systemsProduction lines, manufacturing floors
Industry UsageDesign, develop, and maintain automation systems in pharmaOperate and troubleshoot manufacturing equipment

While both roles work within pharmaceutical manufacturing, the Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer focuses on automation system design and maintenance, requiring a degree and technical knowledge. The Process Technician primarily operates and troubleshoots production equipment, often with technical training or experience. Both roles are essential but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Pharma Automation Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,331 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

$80 - $110/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Catalent rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Automation Engineer Position Summary

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm. 100% on-site Catalent’s Baltimore and Harmans, Maryland sites provide industry-leading GMP development and manufacturing services for advanced biopharmaceuticals, including viral vectors, next-generation vaccines, and oncolytic viruses. Our FDA‑licensed, state‑of‑the‑art Gene Therapy manufacturing campus in Harmans/BWI features two facilities located just five miles from BWI Airport and 13 miles from downtown Baltimore. The 200,000 sq. ft. Harmans/BWI-1 facility includes 10 GMP suites, fill/finish operations, testing labs, and warehousing, while the 145,000 sq. ft. Harmans/BWI-2 site under development will add 8 GMP suites and expanded cold storage. Together, the campus offers a dynamic environment at the center of Maryland’s biotechnology and research corridor.

Key Responsibilities
  • Under the direction of the senior engineers, this role will be responsible for trouble‑shooting challenging equipment / automation issues to improve manufacturing performance (e.g. yield improvements, etc.) and maintaining the automation systems in compliance with cGMPs.
  • The Role Establish the appropriate controls and administrate the automated and computerized systems
  • Support of a large‑scale capital project to develop and implement automation systems in a new manufacturing area, then continued support of those systems as described throughout the description
  • Understand and support all GMPs, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Periodically reviews automation documents, preventive and corrective maintenance, and SOPs to ensure compliance with GMP and safety.
  • On atypical automation situations, develops and supports corrective actions.
  • Uses technical knowledge to assure the efficient operation of variety of automated processing and information technology systems.
  • Supports installing and placing new equipment into operations.
  • Ensures compliance to FDA regulations and follows GAMP in task execution, including change control and deviation investigations.
  • Participates in audits and training programs for automated systems
  • On‑floor support of manufacturing, process development and laboratory activities.
  • Maintain technical documentation (manuals, drawings, software, etc.).
  • Provides client services support for business area applications.
  • Offer technical support for plant downtime and automation‑related issues during after‑hours and weekends, as required, in accordance with the established coverage schedule
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Experience
  • Associate’s degree in engineering, Information Technology, Science, or related field required; Bachelor’s preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year of experience in an automation role supporting process, laboratory, or facility equipment; 2+ years preferred.
  • Knowledge of bioprocess equipment (e.g., SU Bioreactors, Chromatography, Filtration) required.
  • Experience with PLC programming and automation support in GMP environments preferred.
  • Familiarity with OSI‑PI and IGNITION systems preferred.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral) are required.
  • Position requires regular standing, walking, bending, and climbing; occasional lifting up to 30 lbs; manual dexterity to operate tools and equipment; clear visual inspection and documentation skills; and the ability to work in confined spaces or at a computer as needed, while adhering to all PPE and safety requirements.
Compensation

The anticipated salary range for this position in Maryland is $80,000 to $110,000 plus an annual bonus, when eligible. The final salary offered to a successful candidate may vary, and will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to: the type and length of experience within the job, type and length of experience within the industry, skillset, education, business needs, etc. Catalent is a multi‑state employer, and this salary range may not reflect positions that work in other states.

Benefits and Perks
  • Defined career path and annual performance review & feedback process.
  • Cross‑functional exposure to other areas within the organization.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401K are all offered from day one of employment.
  • 152 hours of PTO and 8 paid holidays.
  • Opportunity to work on Continuous Improvement Processes.
Company Culture and Vision

Catalent offers rewarding opportunities to further your career! Join the global drug development and delivery leader and help us bring over 7,000 life‑saving and life‑enhancing products to patients around the world. Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference. personal initiative. dynamic pace. meaningful work.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

Catalent is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and veterans. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email, and confirming your request for an accommodation and include the job number, title and location to DisabilityAccommodations@catalent.com. This option is reserved for individuals who require accommodation due to a disability. Information received will be processed by a U.S. Catalent employee and then routed to a local recruiter who will provide assistance to ensure appropriate consideration in the application or hiring process.

Agency and Recruitment Policy

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives: Catalent Pharma Solutions (Catalent) is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Catalent employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written & signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Catalent. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.

Security Notice

Important Security Notice to U.S. Job Seekers: Catalent NEVER asks candidates to provide any type of payment, bank details, photocopies of identification, social security number or other highly sensitive personal information during the offer process, and we NEVER do so via email or social media. If you receive any such request, DO NOT respond— it is a fraudulent request. Please forward such requests to spam@catalent.com for us to investigate with local authorities. California Job Seekers can find our California Job Applicant Notice HERE.

About the Company

Catalent, Inc. is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) whose mission is to develop, manufacture, and supply products that help people live better and healthier lives. Catalent is dedicated to delivering unparalleled service to pharma, biotech, and consumer health customers, supporting product development, launch, and full life‑cycle supply. With time-tested experience in development sciences, delivery technologies, and multi-modality manufacturing, Catalent supports the acceleration of development programs and the launch of more than a hundred new products every year. Powered by thousands of scientists and technicians and the latest technology platforms at more than 40 global sites, Catalent supplies billions of doses of life‑enhancing and life‑saving treatments for patients annually.

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About Catalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Catalent is an exciting and growing international company where employees work directly with pharma, biopharma and consumer health companies of all sizes to advance new medicines from early development to clinical trials and to the market. Catalent produces more than 70 billion doses per year, and each one will be used by someone who is counting on us. Join us in making a difference.Catalent is committed to the health and safety of its employees, visitors and the customers and patients we serve.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Somerset, NJ, US

Year founded

2007

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