ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Engineer Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA (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 ...

SAIC

Systems Engineer

Hampton, VA · Remote

$80K - $120K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is looking for a Data Integrity Associate System Engineer to join our team of the Air Operations Center Weapons System (AOC WS) Falconer Program. The ideal candidate ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Engineer JobsAssociate Engineer Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

Associate Engineer information

See Virginia Beach, VA salary details

$39.4K

$78.5K

$125.4K

How much do associate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate engineer in Virginia Beach, VA is $78,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,200.00 and $90,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate engineer?

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 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.

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.

How much does an associate engineer get paid?

An associate engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What can I do with an associate engineer's degree in engineering?

An associate engineer's degree prepares individuals for entry-level engineering roles such as technician, assistant engineer, or project support staff. These positions often involve tasks like drafting, testing, data analysis, and using tools like CAD software, with opportunities for on-the-job training and certification to advance in engineering fields.

What is the salary of an associate engineer?

The salary of an associate engineer typically ranges from $60,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on factors such as industry, location, and experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.
More about Associate Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA?

For Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA are:

What cities near Virginia Beach, VA are hiring for Associate Engineer jobs?

Cities near Virginia Beach, VA with the most Associate Engineer job openings:

Associate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Engineer job openings in Virginia Beach, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,059 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Associate Engineer

Norfolk, VA

Instant Systems Inc
See more jobs at Instant Systems Incexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support product development activities including concept, planning, design, testing, and tech transfer to production.

  • Develop CAD designs and drawings, evaluate design modifications, and review final product documentation.

  • Conduct validation/qualification protocols, ensure compliance with standards, and maintain delivery timelines.

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.