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Associate Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Instant Systems Inc

Associate Engineer

Norfolk, VA

Associate Engineer (AE). The AE will apply engineering principles to acquire, implement, design and develop in order to drive innovation and manufacturability to fulfill client needs as well as the ...

Instant Systems Inc

Associate Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Associate Engineer (AE). The AE will apply engineering principles to acquire, implement, design and develop in order to drive innovation and manufacturability to fulfill client needs as well as the ...

Instant Systems Inc

Associate Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Description Associate Engineer (AE). The AE will apply engineering principles to acquire, implement, design and develop in order to drive innovation and manufacturability to fulfill client needs as ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Associate Engineer 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

The Engineer provides system programming and management support for large scale networking infrastructures. The responsibilities include the administration and maintenance of high performance ...

Leidos

Associate Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. In this role, you will create and modify detailed part, assembly, installation, and facility engineering drawings using ...

Leidos

Associate Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. In this role, you will create and modify detailed part, assembly, installation, and facility engineering drawings using ...

Navstar

Associate AI Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Associate AI Engineer Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Design Engineer, Associate

Tysons, VA · On-site

Overview Design Engineer, Associate Essential responsibilities and activities include but are not limited to: * Uses the electrical engineering web site to access department guides and standards ...

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All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Associate Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$41.1K

$81.9K

$130.9K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Virginia is $81,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,900.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Associate Engineers?

Associate Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who support more experienced engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various projects in their field. They typically work under supervision and assist with tasks such as drafting technical documents, conducting research, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Associate Engineers often gain practical experience and training to advance to higher-level engineering roles as they develop their skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, petroleum, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in competitive industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

What can you do with an Associate in engineering?

An associate degree in engineering prepares individuals for technical roles such as engineering technician, CAD drafter, or quality control inspector. These positions often involve supporting engineering projects, using tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB, and may require certification or on-the-job training to develop specialized skills.

What Is an Associate Engineer?

An associate engineer is a lower level engineer in many fields of engineering, including environmental, civil, and mechanical. The title denotes rank and experience level. As an associate engineer, your typical job duties involve analyzing project plans, designing products, maintaining equipment, closely following specifications and procedures, and writing reports. The specific duties vary widely depending upon your field and employer. This career usually requires at least a bachelor’s degree in engineering and obtaining a license in your state. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience, strong technical skills, and a familiarity with your specific industry.

What is the work of an Associate engineer?

An Associate Engineer assists in designing, developing, and testing engineering projects, often supporting senior engineers with technical tasks. They typically use engineering software, follow project specifications, and may need relevant certifications or training to perform their duties effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is the difference between Associate Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAssociate EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; entry-level certificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; professional licensure (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and support roles in engineering teams; often in office or lab settingsDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industrial or construction settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position across various industries like manufacturing, construction, and techDesign and development roles primarily in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors

The main difference between an Associate Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Engineers are typically entry-level, focusing on supporting engineering tasks, while Mechanical Engineers have more experience and handle complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles require a bachelor's degree, but Mechanical Engineers often pursue licensure for advanced roles. The choice depends on your experience level and career goals within engineering fields.

What are some typical challenges Associate Engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to industry roles?

Associate Engineers often find the transition from academic projects to industry roles challenging due to differences in project scope, teamwork dynamics, and pace. In industry, you’ll likely work on larger, multi-disciplinary teams where effective communication and collaboration are crucial. Additionally, projects often have stricter deadlines and require adherence to established processes and standards, which may be less emphasized in academic settings. Embracing continuous learning and seeking mentorship from senior engineers can help ease this transition and set you up for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, industry-specific tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering accurate technical solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.
More about Associate Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in VA? For Associate Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $81,927 per year, or $39.4 per hour.
Associate Engineer

Associate Engineer

Instant Systems Inc

Norfolk, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Associate Engineer (AE). The AE will apply engineering principles to acquire, implement, design and develop in order to drive innovation and manufacturability to fulfill client needs as well as the strategic direction of the company.

Responsibilities:

    • Supporting product development activities including but not limited to:
      • concept, planning, design, and execution stages of new products or product enhancements
      • risk assessment
      • prototyping and testing concept designs and initial engineering builds
      • design reviews, verification testing, product validation, and usability testing
      • tech transfer to production
    • Ensuring product launches occur on time every time
    • Ensuring products are developed in compliance to applicable regulations, standards and or customer requirements
    • Developing new products in line with customer design inputs and output needs
    • Writing and conducting validation/qualification protocols and reports, and other required documents as per the Quality Management Systems at Instant Systems e.g. SOPs, Work Instructions, Forms, etc.
    • Developing CAD designs and drawings required throughout the value stream of the company
    • Drives continuous Improvement through improvement and or developing in systems and processes
    • Understanding and reporting on applicable product standards
    • Maintaining delivery timelines on tasks and deliverables
    • Evaluating proposed design modifications
    • Conduct preventive and corrective maintenance on production equipment
    • Consulting on quality tasks i.e. investigations, root cause analysis, implementing corrective and preventive actions
    • Reviewing final product documentation for accuracy
      • Other Responsibilities as assigned

To be considered you’ll need:

  • an associates degree in relevant engineering field, Bachelor’s Degree preferred
  • a Minimum of 1-2 years of relevant work experience.
  • Must be able to lift 50+ lbs.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  • solid company-centric ideology.
  • creative problem-solving skills.
  • the ability to balance multiple priorities.
  • core values of honesty and respect.
  • a thirst for learning.
  • the desire to be challenged.

You will thrive if you:

  • enjoy an autonomous work environment.
  • have a LEAN mindset.
  • are the first person to help and dependable.
  • seek out opportunities to bring added value.

Company Benefits & Perks

  • 401K
  • Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Wellness Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Corporate Sponsored Events
  • Skill growth opportunities
  • Short Term Disability
  • Ability to Advance
  • Working with energetic & creative problem solvers
  • A mission worthy of your energy and expertise

Applicants for this position must successfully pass background, drug screen and reference check. It is impossible to list every requirement for, or responsibility of, any position. Similarly, we cannot identify all the skills a position may require since job responsibilities and the Company's needs may change over time. Therefore, the above job description is not comprehensive or exhaustive. The Company reserves the right to adjust, add to or eliminate any aspect of the above description. The Company also retains the right to require all employees to undertake additional or different job responsibilities when necessary to meet business needs.

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