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Apprentice Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

TF Cornerstone

Engineer

Reston, VA · Remote

$41 - $43/hr

... mechanical aptitude or experience who are new to the industry and looking to break into commercial office building engineering; such candidates may be considered for an apprentice designation at an ...

Aerotek

Lead Building Engineer

Germantown, MD · On-site

$83K - $93K/yr

DLLR Mechanical Apprentice License or better or equivalent. Additional Skills & Qualifications * General Certificate of Engineering or other training certifications. * DLLR Journeyman Mechanical ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$104K - $138K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferredIMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferredIMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Herndon, VA

$105K - $138K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferredIMPORTANT EXPERIENCE§ 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$104K - $138K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferredIMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$105K - $138K/yr

... mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

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Apprentice Mechanical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice mechanical engineer in Reston, VA is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apprentice mechanical engineer do?

An Apprentice Mechanical Engineer supports experienced engineers in designing, testing, and maintaining mechanical systems. Their tasks often include assisting with drafting technical drawings, assembling prototypes, conducting tests, collecting data, and preparing reports. They also learn how to use industry-specific software and tools, and may participate in troubleshooting and improving mechanical processes. The role provides hands-on experience and foundational knowledge needed to become a fully qualified mechanical engineer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice mechanical engineer?

To thrive as an Apprentice Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of mathematics, physics, and basic engineering principles, usually supported by relevant coursework or a technical diploma. Familiarity with CAD software, mechanical testing tools, and industry-specific standards is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills will help you excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate design work, efficient collaboration, and reliable contributions to engineering projects during your apprenticeship.

What kinds of projects and tasks can an apprentice mechanical engineer expect to work on during their training period?

As an Apprentice Mechanical Engineer, you will typically be involved in a mix of hands-on and technical tasks, ranging from assisting with design and drafting using CAD software to supporting the assembly, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems. You may also participate in site visits, help prepare technical documentation, and collaborate closely with senior engineers and other apprentices. This role provides practical exposure to real-world engineering challenges and allows you to gradually take on more responsibility as your skills develop.

What is the difference between Apprentice Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectApprentice Mechanical EngineerMechanical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in mechanical engineering or related fieldDiploma or associate degree in mechanical technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing plants, and training sitesManufacturing facilities, maintenance workshops, and technical service centers
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, manufacturing industriesFactories, maintenance companies, industrial plants
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level engineering roles and training pathwaysCompared for hands-on technical roles and maintenance tasks

The main difference is that an Apprentice Mechanical Engineer is typically pursuing a degree and gaining foundational engineering knowledge, while a Mechanical Technician focuses on practical, hands-on technical work with relevant certifications. Both roles are essential in the mechanical industry but serve different stages of career development and job functions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

Apprentice Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Mechanical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,654 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Mechanical Maintenance Lead - Gaithersburg, MD

M.C. Dean, Inc

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$119K - $144K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

M.C. Dean rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

267th of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence@. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.
Why Join Us?
Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values-agility, expertise, and trust-we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.
Clearance Requirement: Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, including U.S. Citizenship, for access to classified information; ability to obtain & maintain HSPD-12.
Responsibilities
The Mechanical Maintenance Lead is responsible for the troubleshooting, maintenance and performance of the HVAC equipment. Extensive knowledge of restricted field. Uses judgment within limits of standard practice. Provides solutions to a wide range of problems. Solutions are imaginative, thorough and practical. Objectives are specific.
  • Make periodic inspections of all Engineering systems and equipment and monitoring equipment operations, and maintain equipment operating logs
  • Mentor less experienced HVAC Technicians
  • Operate and maintain site-critical Engineering systems and equipment that supply the facility with heat, utility and conditioned water, ventilation, air conditioning and other environmental and critical systems in accordance with diagrams, operating manuals, industry best practices, and manufacturers specifications
  • Monitor and control building equipment; operate facility's BAS (building automation systems)
  • Disable and re-arm fire alarm panels when required
  • Proficiently use test equipment and devices pertinent to building operating systems and analyze test results
  • Operate and maintain, gas fired steam boilers
  • Perform other related duties as requested
  • Perform maintenance on Engineering systems and equipment to include such items as, but not limited to, Chiller, IFU, VAV, HVAC Controls, and fire and life safety system sprinkler systems
  • Inspect and adjust mechanical equipment and systems; perform specific preventive maintenance service, as well as general maintenance functions while adhering to energy model for building efficiency
  • Make periodic inspections of all Engineering systems and equipment and monitoring equipment operations, and maintain equipment operating logs
  • Proficiently use test equipment and devices pertinent to building operating systems and analyze test results
  • Record and report all faults, deficiencies, and other unusual occurrences. Respond to emergency situations and perform any and all tasks necessary for the protection of occupants and property
  • Under minimal supervision, perform Data Center or mission critical environment maintenance activities
  • Operate and maintain critical systems such as HVAC, CRAC units, life safety and building automated systems, and utility systems

Qualifications
  • 6+ years of commercial HVAC experience with a high school diploma or GED.
  • Experience working with complex HVAC systems and equipment including chillers, boilers, package units, VAV systems (direct digital, pneumatic and automated control systems).
  • Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements, including U.S. Citizenship, for access to classified information; ability to obtain & maintain an HSPD-12 clearance.

Desired / Advantageous Qualifications
  • Completion of a HVAC technical training program in a vocational or technical school or a recognized apprenticeship program is preferred

We offer an excellent benefits package including:
  • A competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Military Reserve pay offset
  • Paid maternity leave

Abilities:
  • The position requires the ability to lift, carry, and move objects weighing up to [50 pounds] on a regular basis. Candidates must demonstrate physical strength and stamina to perform various tasks, including but not limited to, loading, and unloading, operating equipment, and assisting in the transportation of various materials. Proper lifting techniques and safety protocols must be followed to ensure personal and team safety.
  • Relocates a 12-foot stepladder without assistance.
  • Works at various heights up to 60 feet and can climb and maintain balance on scaffolds, aerial lifts, catwalks and all types of ladders.
  • Walks, climbs, lifts, squats, crawls, kneels, pushes, pulls and reaches overhead on a routine and repetitive basis.
  • Possess good vision (may be corrected vision), the ability to see in color, and the ability to hear and communicate in English.
  • May use a standard ladder without exceeding the weight limit while carrying tools.
  • Tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (including finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
  • See details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Pay Range
USD $40.00 - USD $47.50 /Hr.

What M.C. Dean employees say

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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