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Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Westlake

Sr. Automation Engineer

Marion, VA

$98K - $129K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to help drive automation strategy and execution across our building products manufacturing operations. In this role, you will lead automation projects from ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Rockville, VA · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Actalent

Sr Automation Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$48 - $56/hr

Job Title: Sr Automation Engineer We are seeking a Sr Automation Engineer with extensive experience in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). You will collaborate with our engineering team to ...

New

Amazon

Senior Automation Engineer

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

As a Senior Automation Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maximizing equipment reliability and operational performance in our fulfillment centers by providing proactive controls automation and ...

Navtech, Inc.

Senior Automation Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

I have an opportunity for a " Senior Automation Developer " - (McLean, VA - Hybrid). and I am looking for a candidate who can join Immediately if you are interested, reply to me with your updated ...

Leidos

Senior Automation Engineer (UiPath)

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

Ready to engineer solutions that matter? Primary Responsibilities We are seeking an experienced Senior UiPath Automation Engineer to design, develop, and deploy enterprise-grade Robotic Process ...

R.E. Mason

Senior Automation Engineer - DeltaV

Elkton, VA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the lead role in design, development, and implementation of our customers' automation systems during capital projects. The Automation Engineer will be a ...

R.E. Mason

Senior Automation Engineer - DCS

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the lead role in design, development, and implementation of our customers' automation systems during capital projects. The Automation Engineer will be a ...

R.E. Mason

Senior Automation Engineer - DeltaV

Elkton, VA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the lead role in design, development, and implementation of our customers' automation systems during capital projects. The Automation Engineer will be a ...

R.E. Mason

Senior Automation Engineer - DCS

Richmond, VA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

The Automation Engineer is responsible for the lead role in design, development, and implementation of our customers' automation systems during capital projects. The Automation Engineer will be a ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsSenior Automation Engineer JobsSenior Automation Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Senior Automation Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$51.1K

$120.8K

$166.6K

How much do senior automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automation engineer in Virginia is $120,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,100.00 and $135,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior automation engineer?

The duties of a senior automation engineer are to develop, design, and configure systems that automate processes, such as manufacturing or software processes. Some people in this position work exclusively with software design while others work with hardware design and production. Some may provide both digital and physical solutions to automation problems. Regardless of the field, the responsibilities of a senior automation engineer are to improve efficiency while reducing the number of people it takes to complete a given process. Qualifications typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree, experience in the industry, and leadership skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Automation Engineer, you need a deep understanding of automation frameworks, scripting languages (such as Python or Java), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, Docker, and CI/CD systems, along with certifications like ISTQB or Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, effective communication, and collaboration skills help you excel in guiding teams and managing complex projects. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the reliability, scalability, and efficiency of automated systems in fast-paced technical environments.

How does a senior automation engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

Senior Automation Engineers frequently work alongside software developers, QA specialists, and operations teams to design and implement robust automated testing frameworks or process automation solutions. They often lead discussions to identify automation opportunities, define requirements, and ensure that automation integrates smoothly into existing workflows. Effective communication and documentation skills are essential, as they must translate complex technical needs for non-technical stakeholders and align efforts across departments. Collaboration may also involve mentoring junior engineers and conducting code reviews to maintain high standards and consistency.

What is the difference between Senior Automation Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSenior Automation EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often some certifications in automation toolsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications in automation tools are common
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and overseeing automation systems; leading projectsImplementing automation solutions; supporting existing systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, software, automotive, and industrial sectorsManufacturing, software development, and industrial sectors

Senior Automation Engineers typically have more experience, lead projects, and handle complex automation systems, while Automation Engineers focus on implementing and supporting automation solutions. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but senior roles involve more leadership and strategic responsibilities.

More about Senior Automation Engineer jobs

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Senior Automation Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Automation Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Automation Engineer jobs in VA?

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

Senior Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Automation Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,809 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Sr. Automation Engineer

Westlake

Marion, VA

$98K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 102 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to help drive automation strategy and execution across our building products manufacturing operations. In this role, you will lead automation projects from concept through commissioning, improve plant safety and performance, and partner cross-functionally with engineering, operations, IT, and manufacturing teams to implement practical, high-impact solutions. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced engineer who thrives in a hands-on manufacturing environment and wants to make a meaningful impact across multiple sites.

What You'll Do

  • Lead automation projects from concept and design through installation, commissioning, and startup.
  • Develop solutions that improve safety, reliability, productivity, and operational efficiency.
  • Partner with engineering, manufacturing, IT, and project teams to identify automation and AI opportunities.
  • Manage scope, schedule, budget, risk, and stakeholder communication.
  • Perform feasibility studies and technical assessments to support sound engineering decisions.
  • Troubleshoot complex issues and provide post-implementation support.
  • Provide technical guidance and training to plant teams.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 10+ years of engineering experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • 5+ years of experience in automation, capital project management, engineering design, and equipment integration.
  • Hands-on knowledge of PLC/HMI programming, ladder logic, and industrial robotics such as FANUC, ABB, or KUKA.
  • Strong project leadership, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
  • Experience with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment, and technical documentation.
  • AutoCAD experience is a plus.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to take on visible, high-impact work in a hands-on manufacturing environment. You'll partner with cross-functional teams, help shape automation strategy across multiple sites, and play a key role in driving meaningful operational improvement.

Work Environment & Travel

This role includes both office and plant-floor work. Travel is expected approximately 30-40%, and candidates should be comfortable working in an industrial environment and using required PPE.

If you enjoy solving complex manufacturing challenges and leading impactful automation projects, we encourage you to apply.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

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