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Associate Principal Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ECS Ltd

Geotechnical Principal

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Responsibilities may also include mentoring Associate Principals * Responsibilities may also ... Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Professional Geologist (P.G.) license is required in each of the ...

Cumming Group

Development Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

... value engineering options, and contractor proposals. * Support the negotiation and administration of consultant and construction contracts, in coordination with the Associate Principal and/or ...

Cumming Group

Development Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

... value engineering options, and contractor proposals. * Support the negotiation and administration of consultant and construction contracts, in coordination with the Associate Principal and/or ...

Daikinapplied

Principal Engineering Designer

Staunton, VA · On-site

$73K - $120K/yr

Principal Designers will use computer-based tools to design parts and assemblies, create production ... Associates Degree+ 15 years of related design experience or BS in Engineering + 12 years design ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Principal Engineer JobsAssociate Principal Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Associate Principal Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$41.1K

$81.9K

$130.9K

How much do associate principal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate principal 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 is an associate principal engineer?

An Associate Principal Engineer is a senior-level technical professional who leads complex engineering projects and provides guidance to other engineers. They are responsible for designing solutions, ensuring technical quality, and often play a key role in setting engineering standards and best practices within an organization. In addition to their technical expertise, they may collaborate with cross-functional teams, mentor junior staff, and contribute to strategic planning. This role typically requires extensive experience and a proven track record of technical leadership.

How does an associate principal engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams within an organization?

As an Associate Principal Engineer, you will frequently work alongside product managers, designers, and other engineering disciplines to translate business requirements into technical solutions. Collaboration often involves participating in architecture reviews, providing technical guidance, and ensuring alignment across teams during project development cycles. This role requires strong communication skills to articulate complex concepts and facilitate consensus among stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment that supports both innovation and delivery.

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

To thrive as an Associate Principal Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, a relevant bachelor's or master's degree, and significant experience in your technical domain. Familiarity with industry-standard design tools, project management software, and certifications like PMP or relevant technical credentials are often required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you guide project teams and collaborate across departments. These abilities ensure successful project delivery, innovation, and alignment with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Associate Principal Engineer vs Senior Engineer?

AspectAssociate Principal EngineerSenior Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, professional certifications often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, some certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, cross-team collaboration, strategic planningProject-focused, technical problem-solving, mentorship
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large corporations, R&D, and engineering firmsCommon across industries, especially in tech, manufacturing, and engineering

The Associate Principal Engineer typically holds a more senior, strategic role involving leadership and cross-team coordination, whereas a Senior Engineer focuses on technical expertise and project execution. Both roles require strong engineering credentials, but the Associate Principal Engineer often has additional responsibilities in guiding technical direction and mentoring.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Principal Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Associate Principal Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Associate Principal Engineer job openings:

Associate Principal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Principal Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,927 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Senior Principal Engineer - Site Civil

Rinker Design Associates

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
The Senior Principal Engineer is a senior leadership role responsible for technical excellence, strategic growth, and operational oversight within Rinker Design Associates engineering practice. This position combines high-level project leadership, client engagement, and staff development, serving as a key contributor to both regional success and long-term organizational strategy.
$10,000 sign-on bonus!

What You’ll Do
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for the design of land development projects from initial concept through construction administration
  • Provide executive-level oversight and technical direction on complex transportation and infrastructure projects.
  • Serve as Engineer of Record as appropriate and ensure adherence to applicable state, federal, and industry standards.
  • Review and approve engineering designs, calculations, plans, specifications, and deliverables.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to key public-sector and institutional clients.
  • Maintain and expand long-term client relationships throughout Virginia and the surrounding region.
  • Support strategic pursuits, proposals, and interviews for major Site Civil project opportunities.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop senior engineers, project managers, and emerging leaders.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and technical excellence.
  • Support succession planning and workforce development initiatives.
  • Collaborate with Rinker Design Associates and Trilon Group leadership on growth initiatives and integration efforts.
  • Contribute to operational planning, financial performance, and resource management.
  • Identify opportunities to expand services, markets, and delivery methods.

What You’ll Need
  • Proficiency in design utilizing AutoCAD Civil3D
  • Skill in updating, maintaining, operating and evaluating all AutoCAD software and related equipment
  • Strong attention to detail, ensuring edits requested by project manager are accurate
  • Able to fully understand and follow complex oral and written instructions
  • Ability to operate, access, and maintain diverse software applications
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Basic understanding of ISO 9000 design requirements.

Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:   
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Generous PTO and 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave 
  • Supportive team culture
RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered. 

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