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Industrial Automation Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Description Job Title Industrial Automation Programmer Location Virginia Beach, VA, US Organization Name Industrial Automation Work Schedule and Other Information Brief Description Under broad ...

Industrial automation and systems integration * Robotics * Drives, servos, and motion control * DCS and industrial control systems Key Responsibilities Automation Engineer responsibilities will ...

New

Automation Engineer

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Automation Engineer Our client is a well-established systems integrator with more than 40 years of ... Design and support industrial automation and control system architectures for new installations and ...

Automation Engineer

Roanoke, VA ยท On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Automation Engineer Our client is a well-established systems integrator with more than 40 years of ... Design and support industrial automation and control system architectures for new installations and ...

Industrial Automation Engineer - cGMP Manufacturing | Greater Richmond VA This is an opportunity to join a growing manufacturing organization that is actively investing in new equipment, automation ...

Automation Engineer

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $125/hr

You will primarily focus on industrial automation (equipment, controls, robotics) in collaboration with IT, Safety, Facilities, Industrial Engineering, and Manufacturing Operations. Experience with ...

Automation Engineer

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

You will primarily focus on industrial automation (equipment, controls, robotics) in collaboration with IT, Safety, Facilities, Industrial Engineering, and Manufacturing Operations. Experience with ...

Automation Engineer

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

You will primarily focus on industrial automation (equipment, controls, robotics) in collaboration with IT, Safety, Facilities, Industrial Engineering, and Manufacturing Operations. Experience with ...

Automation Engineer (Industrial Controls / PLC Systems) Location: Ashburn, VA (On-site) Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Compensation: Based on experience and current compensation About the ...

... controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor ... programming or automation engineering experience - Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area ...

Automation Engineer

Rockville, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $113/hr

As an Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and ... Experience with preventive maintenance procedures, industrial electrical, industrial controls, and ...

... controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor ... programming or automation engineering experience - Work a flexible schedule/shift/work area ...

... controllers and industrial networks such as Ethernet, ControlNet, DeviceNet, Profibus, motor ... engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, or 2+ years of process or production ...

Automation Engineer

Vinton, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer - Controls Engineering Expertise Needed (On-site) Location: Vinton, VA Work ... Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and SCADA-based control systems for industrial and municipal ...

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Showing results 1-20

Industrial Automation Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$51.1K

$92.4K

$122.9K

How much do industrial automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for industrial automation engineer in Virginia is $92,422.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an industrial automation engineer do?

An Industrial Automation Engineer designs, develops, and implements systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They work with control systems, robotics, and software to increase efficiency, reliability, and safety in industrial environments. Their responsibilities often include programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshooting automation equipment, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production lines. Industrial Automation Engineers play a crucial role in modernizing factories and reducing manual labor through advanced technology solutions.

What does an industrial automation engineer do?

As an industrial automation engineer, your responsibilities include troubleshooting systems and equipment and maintaining software, robotics, and machinery in a manufacturing facility. You also set up, install, and monitor new equipment, program and adjust process controls, and purchase and maintain stock levels of all necessary electronic equipment. You stay within company standards and accepted industry practices when preparing project scopes, design concepts, bills of material, specifications, and cost estimates for production. Other duties include working directly with clients, preparing project correspondence as needed, and developing industrial software programs based on client product requirements.

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

To thrive as an Industrial Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, automation systems, and process control, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard automation software, along with certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable automation processes in industrial environments.

How does an industrial automation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams on large-scale projects?

Industrial Automation Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical engineers, software developers, project managers, and production staff to implement and optimize automated systems. Collaboration often involves participating in project planning meetings, designing control systems that integrate with existing machinery, and troubleshooting issues during installation and testing phases. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as these engineers must ensure that automation solutions meet both technical and operational requirements while aligning with safety and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Industrial Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectIndustrial Automation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like Siemens or Allen-BradleyBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, automation labsIndustrial plants, process control environments, automation projects
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, food processingProcess industries, oil & gas, power plants

Both roles focus on automation systems, but Industrial Automation Engineers typically work on integrating and maintaining automation equipment in manufacturing settings, while Control Systems Engineers design and optimize control algorithms for complex processes. The roles often overlap, but their specific focus areas differ based on industry needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Industrial Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Industrial Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Industrial Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Industrial Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Industrial Automation Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,422 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Industrial Automation Programmer

HRSD

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description
Job Title Industrial Automation Programmer Location Virginia Beach, VA, US Organization Name Industrial Automation Work Schedule and Other Information Brief Description
Under broad guidance, the Industrial Automation Programmer is responsible for providing instrumentation and control engineering services to include planning, design, repair, upgrade, administrative functions, and maintenance to Distributive Control System (DCS), the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, and EDS (Enterprise Data System) as required. Ensuring that the DCS/SCADA/EDS system security is maintained in accordance with HRSD's standards and that the DCS system is programed to conform with the intention of the system functional descriptions.
Detailed Description Click to review the complete job description.
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Job Requirements
Education
Required
โ€ข Bachelor of Science (BS) in Engineering, Information Technology, or science related field
โ€ข Relevant Associate's degree (AAS) with education equivalency which equals two years of directly related experience for every year of education not completed (5 years). The stated experience is in addition to any experience used to meet the experience requirement.
Experience
Required
โ€ข Minimum 5 years of relevant experience performing Industrial Control Programming
โ€ข Must possess 5 years working knowledgeable of distributed control systems, communication networks, Microsoft Windows, motor controls, instruments and valves.
โ€ข Must be proficient at record keeping and documentation
โ€ข Experience implementing and optimizing distributed control systems (DCS) in an industrial facility is required.
Desired
โ€ข Four years' experience and knowledge of Wastewater Collection and Treatment Systems
โ€ข Experience implementing DCS projects and performing the automation portion of the project in a Wastewater Treatment Facility.
โ€ข Experience implementing, configuring and troubleshooting one or more of the following systems for Emerson Oviation DCS, Allen Bradley PLC and Schneider Modicon PLC and SCADA Pack is a plus.
Licenses and Certifications Requirements
โ€ข Valid Driver's License from state of residence
โ€ข Desired - CAP (Certified Automation Professional)
Additional Details
HRSD is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. HRSD does not discriminate against individuals in employment on the basis of race, sex, including sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, engaging in protected activity or any additional protected characteristics recognized by federal, state and local law.
HRSD is a Drug Free Workplace.
How To Apply
External applicants should apply online using the iRecruitment site.
HRSD employees must apply by logging in to the ERP and using their Employee Self-Service responsibility.
Minimum Salary 101381 Maximum Salary 132279 Currency USD External End Date 31-Aug-2026

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About HRSD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Utilities

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Virginia Beach, VA, US

Year founded

1940