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Senior Automation Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

NT Concepts

Lead Test Automation Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

$46.25 - $61/hr

Minimum of 10 years of experience in software test automation, including senior-level ownership of ... engineering culture that encourages technical growth, leadership, and creative "big idea" problem ...

i-Link Solutions

Sr. Workflow Automation Lead

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

Required : • 10+ years dedicated to workflow automation, system integration, or business process engineering. • 3+ years of direct, hands-on technical experience with n8n and Zapier. • Proven ...

SAIC

Automation Test Engineer Senior

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_HYBRID Description SAIC is currently seeking a motivated and energetic Senior-level Automation Engineer to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career in Ashburn, VA. The Automation ...

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RIVIDIUM

Cyber Automation Engineer

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

RiVidium is seeking a Cyber Automation Engineer to support our planned MODES III team supporting ... yrs), Senior (10-15 yrs). * Ability to satisfy applicable Government personnel security ...

Excella

Senior DevOps Automation Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$149K - $192K/yr

Overview Senior DevOps Automation Engineers at Excella focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining Continuous Delivery (CD) solutions. They work independently to build automated deployment ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsSenior Automation Engineer JobsSenior Automation Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Senior Automation Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$53.6K

$126.8K

$174.8K

How much do senior automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior automation engineer in Reston, VA is $126,772.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,200.00 and $142,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for automation engineer?

The highest salaries for senior automation engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or regions with a strong tech presence. Factors such as experience, certifications, and expertise with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, or scripting languages influence earning potential.

What Is the Job Description of 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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Automation Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in scripting and testing tools, and certifications in automation or related fields can earn $200,000 or more annually. Salaries vary based on industry, location, and company size, with those in high-demand sectors or with specialized expertise often reaching this level.

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.

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.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in programming, and knowledge of tools like Python, PLCs, or robotics can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in competitive or high-cost regions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in scripting and control systems, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often found in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, especially for those working in leadership roles or managing large-scale projects.

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 are Senior Automation Engineers?

Senior Automation Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes, often within manufacturing, software development, or IT environments. They are responsible for improving efficiency, reliability, and quality by creating and maintaining automation solutions. Senior Automation Engineers also lead teams, set technical standards, and troubleshoot complex automation issues. Their work often involves programming, system integration, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
More about Senior Automation Engineer jobs
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Senior Automation Engineer jobs near you
QA Automation Engineer (Senior)

QA Automation Engineer (Senior)

Northramp LLC

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

Northramp LLC is seeking a detail-oriented Senior QA Automation Engineer to join our dynamic team focused on delivering high-quality software solutions in federal environments. In this role, you will design, develop, and maintain automated testing solutions to validate software functionality, performance, and security, helping ensure the delivery of robust and reliable systems.

This position involves collaborating closely with development teams, architects, and program managers to integrate automated testing into continuous integration and delivery pipelines, supporting mission-critical cloud applications.

Location & Work Arrangement

Remote role based in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Remote work options are available in alignment with program and security considerations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain automated test scripts for functional, regression, integration, and performance testing using industry-standard tools and frameworks.
  • Integrate automated tests into CI/CD pipelines (Harness) to enforce quality and prevent defect leakage during software releases.
  • Collaborate with software engineers to ensure comprehensive test coverage and effective identification of defects.
  • Create and maintain test documentation such as test plans, test cases, and execution reports supporting compliance and audit requirements.
  • Assist in setting up and maintaining testing environments and test data management consistent with federal standards and security policies.
  • Support performance and security testing efforts through test automation and tooling integration.
  • Analyze test results, report defects, and track quality metrics to provide insight into software quality trends.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of test automation frameworks and testing best practices across the team.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • 7+ years experience in software quality assurance with a focus on test automation engineering.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or related field; equivalent professional experience considered.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used for test automation such as Java, Python, or JavaScript.
  • Experience with test automation frameworks and tools such as Selenium, Katalon, Jmeter, Axe by Deque, and Postman.
  • Familiarity integrating automated tests into CI/CD pipelines using Harness, GitHub Actions, or equivalent.
  • Understanding of software development life cycles, Agile methodologies, and shift-left testing practices.
  • Experience working within federal compliance environments including FedRAMP, FISMA, or NIST standards is preferred.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and quality.
  • U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust or higher security clearance.

Desired Qualifications

  • Certifications such as ISTQB Foundation or Advanced Level.
  • Experience with Google Cloud.
  • Knowledge of accessibility testing and Section 508 compliance.
  • Previous federal contracting or government program experience.
  • Existing active Public Trust or higher clearance.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home
  • Wellness Resources
  • Employee Bonus Programs

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