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Aerospace Design Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Helsing

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Hold a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field * Possess outstanding hands-on experience with 3D/2D CAD and PLM ...

Helsing

Senior Design Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Hold a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field * Possess outstanding hands-on experience with 3D/2D CAD and PLM ...

Mu-Del Electronics

PCB Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Position Overview Mu-Del Electronics is seeking a highly skilled PCB Design Engineer with strong ... Experience designing for aerospace, defense, or industrial applications * Experience with FPGA or ...

Electra

Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred. * 2+ years of experience in aircraft structural or airframe design, integration, and ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$92K - $112K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred. * 2+ years of experience in aircraft structural or airframe design, integration, and ...

Electra

Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field; Master's degree preferred. * 2+ years of experience in aircraft structural or airframe design, integration, and ...

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$67/hr

Digital Design Engineer Client: Defense-Aerospace Hourly Rate: up to $67/hr W2, non-benefited Length: Temp-to-Perm Location: Manassas, VA Clearance: Ability to obtain a Department of Defense Secret ...

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$67/hr

Digital Design Engineer Client: Defense-Aerospace Hourly Rate: up to $67/hr W2, non-benefited Length: Temp-to-Perm Location: Manassas, VA Clearance: Ability to obtain a Department of Defense Secret ...

Lynk

Propulsion Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary As a Propulsion Design Engineer at Lynk, you will support the development of the Hall ... Bachelors or Masters of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics ...

X Energy LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD

$77K - $105K/yr

... aerospace, chemical, etc.) from an accredited institution required. * Proficiency with engineering ... Formula SAE, Baja SAE, Design Build Fly, Rocket Club, etc. * Hardware ownership including ...

X Energy LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

... aerospace, chemical, etc.) from an accredited institution required. * Proficiency with engineering ... Formula SAE, Baja SAE, Design Build Fly, Rocket Club, etc. * Hardware ownership including ...

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All JobsAerospace Design Engineer JobsAerospace Design Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Aerospace Design Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$42.1K

$91.7K

$164.9K

How much do aerospace design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerospace design engineer in Reston, VA is $91,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 200k as an aerospace engineer?

Aerospace design engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-cost-of-living areas or for large aerospace companies. Salaries vary based on location, education, certifications, and specialization within aerospace engineering.

What does an Aerospace Design Engineer do?

An Aerospace Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related systems. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create and refine models, conduct simulations, and analyze structural, aerodynamic, and thermal performance. Their work ensures that aerospace components meet safety, reliability, and regulatory standards. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies, is essential to bring designs from concept to production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerospace Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerospace Design Engineer, you need strong knowledge of aerodynamics, structural analysis, and engineering principles, typically backed by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis tools, and relevant certifications like EIT or PE are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, effective teamwork, and clear communication help you excel in collaborative and highly technical environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and innovation of aerospace components and systems.

What does an aerospace design engineer do?

An aerospace design engineer develops and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and missile components, focusing on aerodynamics, materials, and structural integrity. They use CAD software and perform simulations to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards throughout the design process.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of an Aerospace Design Engineer?

As an Aerospace Design Engineer, your daily tasks often include designing and modeling aerospace components, running simulations, and analyzing test data to optimize performance and safety. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance, to ensure designs meet all requirements and regulations. Managing design documentation and participating in design reviews are also important parts of the job. This role offers a dynamic work environment where innovation and attention to detail directly contribute to successful project outcomes.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and specialized knowledge in aerodynamics or propulsion can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in the aerospace industry often work in leadership roles or at major defense and commercial aerospace companies, sometimes supplemented by bonuses and stock options.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and specialized knowledge in aircraft or spacecraft systems can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such compensation typically occurs in senior leadership roles or highly specialized fields within the aerospace industry.
What are popular job titles related to Aerospace Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Aerospace Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Aerospace Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Aerospace Design Engineer job openings:
Aerospace Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerospace Design Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,707 per year, or $44.1 per hour.
Aerospace Design Engineer I/II - 081QE

Aerospace Design Engineer I/II - 081QE

Quartus Engineering

Herndon, VA • On-site

$79K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

About Quartus

Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structures, mechanisms, and multi-disciplinary design. We combine our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration, and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.

About Aerospace Sector

Quartus is a key contributor to aerospace advancements, specializing in engineering simulation and custom hardware. We’ve played a vital role in a diverse range of free space, launch and spacecraft projects including the NASA James Webb Space Telescope project for 17 years, covering design, analysis, and testing. Quartus is involved in leading in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) systems. Our expertise spans aircraft structural design, analysis, and testing, including support for FAA certifications. Quartus excels in commercial and defense aircraft applications, as well as custom optical systems like laser communications terminals and lidar payloads with both aerial and space applications. 

What will you do:

As an Aerospace Design Engineer in our Herndon, VA office, you will be revamping, redesigning, or creating brand new ideas. Your involvement in projects may span from concept to prototype delivery. You’ll work heavily in CREO, SolidWorks, and other software modeling and creating drawings. Some portion of the work will include hands on building or assembly of physical hardware.

Essential Job Functions:
  • Creates complex 3-D CAD models and assemblies using CREO, SolidWorks, and other CAD tools
  • Creates and edits drawings and BOMs to document designs using CAD tools
  • Performs hand calculations and tolerance analyses
  • Researches and selects materials and parts for design elements
  • Applies creativity, experience, and analytical abilities to generate innovative design approaches
  • Assembles and tests prototype hardware
  • Works independently as well as collaboratively as part of multi disciplinary team
  • (For more experienced candidates) Technical leadership, mentoring, and training junior employees in the areas listed above.
What are we looking for?
  • BS in Mechanical, Aerospace or similar Engineering field
  • 0-2 years of work experience with focus on design (open to hiring at multiple levels)
  • Experience designing and making drawings in CREO or SolidWorks (other packages a plus)
  • Experience in one of the following areas: spacecraft, aircraft, or precision design
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and techniques to solve a variety of problems
  • Demonstrate ability to compellingly present technical information to groups
  • Machining or similar manufacturing or shop experience
  • Must be a US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident) 
 
Compensation and Benefits

Engineer I pay range: $65,892 – 109,820*

Engineer II pay range: $79,729 – 132,882*

*This range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.

Referral eligibility: Tier 1

Quartus is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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