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Associate Engineer Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

AST SpaceMobile

Associate AOCS Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate AOCS Engineer to support the development, testing, and operation of advanced spacecraft control systems. This role will ...

SAIC

AI Engineer Associate

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Machine Learning Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: None Clearance Level Must Be Able to ...

SAIC

AI Engineer Associate

Upper Marlboro, MD

$80K - $120K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Machine Learning Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance Required: None Clearance Level Must Be Able to ...

SAIC

AI Engineer Associate

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a machine learning engineer with hands-on experience deploying machine learning and artificial intelligence models. Experience with on-premises deployment of large ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Design Engineer Associate 1

Tysons, VA · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

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

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All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Springfield, VA

Associate Engineer information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$43.3K

$86.3K

$137.9K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Springfield, VA is $86,316.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $99,200.00 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 high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects and teams.

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 is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and implementation of engineering projects. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, utilize tools like CAD software, and may need relevant certifications or technical skills to perform tasks effectively.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most associate engineers do not earn this level of salary, senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, or aerospace engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, or in high-demand industries. Achieving this income typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures.

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 Springfield, VA? The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA? For Associate Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:
Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Springfield, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,316 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Associate Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Associate Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Fibertek, Inc

Herndon, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Associate Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer
Location
Herndon, VA - Herndon, VA 20171 US (Primary)
Job Description
At Fibertek, space-based lasers are our specialty - we develop cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind lasers and electro-optical systems for atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors for NASA, DoD, and other aerospace customers. We are looking for future lead systems engineers to join our growing team. Join us, and you will work with our veteran lead systems engineers in requirements flowdowns, interface management, integration & test planning, and multi-disciplinary technical leadership while being mentored in the skills required to lead a program in the future. If you have a broad base of technical knowledge, the communication skills to work with a variety of technical backgrounds, and the desire to learn the arts of systems engineering and technical leadership, then we are eager to hear from you!
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Work in cross-functional teams with program managers, scientists, and engineers to develop new technologies and laser systems for military and space applications
  • Investigate technical issues and support their resolution
  • Develop flowdown of technical requirements and maintain requirement documents and databases
  • Requirement verification and tracking
  • Track and manage technical resources such as mass, volume, and power
  • Develop test plans and participate in test execution
  • Manage documentation of internal and external system interfaces
  • Lead and/or execute special projects at the direction of program leadership Examples may include system trade studies, anomaly resolution, root cause / corrective action assessments, or risk-reduction activities.
  • Prepare technical documentation for internal stakeholders and/or external customers
  • Present at technical reviews

Job Requirements
Experience and Expertise Required:
  • A bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or optics with 3+ years of relevant experience or graduate degree in engineering, physics, or optics with 1+ years of relevant experience
  • Experience with the design and testing of engineering or scientific instrumentation
  • Proficient in the fundamental principles of optics
  • Experience with at least one of: spaceflight hardware, electro-optical systems, hardware systems engineering
  • Written and verbal technical communication skills
  • Leadership experience preferred
  • U.S. citizenship is required
  • Hold or can acquire a Secret or Top-Secret Clearance preferred

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is available up on request. This range reflects the compensation Fibertek reasonably expects to offer for this role. Placement within the range will depend on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's experience, education and training, key skills, and relevant market and business considerations.
Benefits offered: The company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability, life insurance, and AD&D; a 401(k) plan with a company match and immediate vesting; Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts; an Employee Assistance Program; education assistance; paid time off and holidays; flexible work schedules; and a 9/8/80 alternate workweek option.
FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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