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Assistant Design Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

FPGA Hardware Design Engineer

Hanover, MD ยท On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

Capabilities: * Assist with designing new products and processes and improving and maintaining ... Communicate with the other engineering personnel to coordinate the interrelated design and assure ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Arnold, MD ยท On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Mechanical Design Engineer The Opportunity: Applies engineering physics, mathematics, and materials ... As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with ...

Design Engineer Associate

VA ยท On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful ... Uses 2D CAD/BIM skills * Assist on the development of Method of Procedures (MOP), and Sequence of ...

Design Engineer Principal

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $156K/yr

Uses the electrical engineering web site to access department guides and standards * Assist other engineers in producing conceptual design to construction documents from utilization voltage to low ...

Design Engineer Principal

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $156K/yr

Uses the electrical engineering web site to access department guides and standards * Assist other engineers in producing conceptual design to construction documents from utilization voltage to low ...

Design Engineer Staff

Tysons, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $113K/yr

Development of Engineering Installation Design Packages including the creation of Block Diagrams ... Create Cable, Device, and Performance Verification Test Plans * Assist in the Bids and Proposals ...

Showing results 21-40

Assistant Design Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$37.4K

$100.5K

$152.3K

How much do assistant design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant design engineer in Washington is $100,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant design engineer do?

An Assistant Design Engineer supports senior engineers in creating and developing designs for products, structures, or systems. Their tasks often include preparing technical drawings, conducting research, creating prototypes, and assisting with testing and analysis. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models and work closely with other team members to ensure designs meet project requirements and safety standards. This role is typically an entry-level position that provides valuable experience in engineering design and project management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with design tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA and knowledge of industry standards or certifications such as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork and communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure precise, innovative design solutions and effective collaboration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Assistant Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectAssistant Design EngineerDesign Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in engineering; often more experience
Work EnvironmentSupport role in design teams, assisting senior engineersLead or primary role in designing projects, overseeing technical details
ResponsibilitiesAssist in creating designs, preparing drawings, and conducting researchDevelop and finalize designs, review technical specifications, and coordinate with manufacturing

The main difference between an Assistant Design Engineer and a Design Engineer lies in responsibility level and experience. Assistant Design Engineers support the design process and gain experience, while Design Engineers take on more complex tasks and lead design projects. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Design Engineers typically have more hands-on experience and responsibility.

What are some common challenges assistant design engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to professional engineering environments?

Assistant Design Engineers often find that transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering roles involves adapting to tighter deadlines, larger teams, and stricter compliance with industry standards. Unlike classroom assignments, professional projects require precise documentation, coordination with other departments such as manufacturing and quality assurance, and adherence to budget constraints. Embracing collaborative tools and clear communication is essential, as is being open to feedback from senior engineers to grow technically and professionally.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Design Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Assistant Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Assistant Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Design Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,523 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Bowman Consulting Group, Ltd.

Herndon, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Short Description
Bowman has an opportunity for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team in Herndon, VA.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That's why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Purpose
Perform all levels of mechanical design including the development of construction documents.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction
  • Receive general instruction on key objectives for execution. Receive direction as needed, and especially on difficult assignments and possible solutions. Work is completed using standard engineering techniques and design principles and is reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound professional judgement.

At the Operational and Company Level
  • Assist with the marketing of the firm's capabilities to establish new clients and enhance relationships.

Do the Work
  • Design appropriate mechanical systems in accordance with current code requirements and sound engineering principles.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers, project manager, and occasionally the client.
  • Conduct field observations visits to accurately document the existing field conditions.
  • Organize/prioritize multiple tasks to complete the design in a sequential efficient manner.
  • Accurately produce the project construction documents to meet milestone schedules within a predetermined hourly budget.
  • Assist in developing construction cost estimates for mechanical systems.
  • Attend coordination and design meetings, as needed.
  • Assist with project specifications and budget construction cost estimating.
  • Address comments from clients, AHJ's & other review authorities; adjust designs accordingly.
  • If directed, review all project related construction administrative items (shop drawings, RFI's, change order proposals).
  • Work within established project budgets.
  • Possess and continue to develop a working knowledge of all codes applicable to the discipline.
  • Possess and continue to develop a working knowledge of AutoCAD and Revit software.

Success Metrics and Competencies
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners.
  • Highly motivated and problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work.
  • Aspirations to grow professionally and advance within the company.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or architectural engineering or related engineering discipline required at time of employment.
  • Entry level position, no prior experience required. Any professional experience is a plus.
  • Knowledgeable of AutoCAD, REVIT, CHVAC/RHVAC, Trane Trace and/or eQuest modeling software.
  • EIT and LEED accreditation preferred.

About Bowman
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
Salary and eligible variable compensation (if any) commensurate with experience. Range $70,000 - $80,000 and includes a comprehensive benefits package.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Primarily indoor professional office environment which may include bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
  • Mobility around an office environment.
  • Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
  • Occasionally outdoor work environment which may include adverse weather conditions, varying temperatures, excessive noise, and/or potential hazards.
  • Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.

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Job Description Disclaimer
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.