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Apprentice Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Lead Operating Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/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 ...

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 preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Machinist

Gaithersburg, MD

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

Supervise and mentor machinists and apprentices, ensuring quality standards and productivity goals ... Collaborate with Mechanical Engineering on the design and prototyping of new fabricated parts.

Machinist

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

Supervise and mentor machinists and apprentices, ensuring quality standards and productivity goals ... Collaborate with Mechanical Engineering on the design and prototyping of new fabricated parts.

Lead Operating Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/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 ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$104K - $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 ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$104K - $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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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 8, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
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.

Lead Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield

Mclean, VA • On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 158 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 201 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title
Lead Operating Engineer
Job Description Summary
Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all necessary maintenance and operational tasks are developed to assure maximum life and reliability of all mechanical/ electrical/plumbing systems. Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes the solo engineer at the building. This position may also include the supervision of maintenance staff at the building depending on the size and complexity of the assignment.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist with or conduct the daily operations and maintenance of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and general maintenance requirements for the buildings
• Supervise maintenance staff when applicable and assign, and monitor maintenance activities and projects
• Perform preventive maintenance duties, including changing filters, lubricating motors, replacing lamps, ballasts and fixtures, Inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning shafts, and other inspections and maintenance recommended by equipment manufacturers
• Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis
• Develop and maintain effective building-specific maintenance procedures
• Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors and technicians
• Maintain stock and inventory control
• Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
• Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as related to building operations and practice safe work habits
• Ensure management team is informed of current building operations by compiling and submitting monthly reports
• Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually.
• Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
• Organization Skills
• Technical Proficiency
• Decision Making
• Problem Solving/Analysis
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
• Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
§ 5+ years of related trade experience in operating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
• Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc.
• Possess a valid "Universal" level certification for CFC and HFC based refrigerants (EPA Section 608); to service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release ozone depleting refrigerants to the atmosphere or any similar combination of education and experience
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and good driving record with periodic checks
• Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
• Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
• Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations.
• Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
• Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
• Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
• Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
• Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
• Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $43.78 - $51.50
Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email Accommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.
INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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