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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Harrisonburg, VA

Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Harrisonburg, VA salary details

$41.5K

$120.9K

$165.4K

How much do data engineer entry level jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Harrisonburg, VA is $120,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,700.00 and $128,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data engineer entry level do?

An entry-level data engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining systems that allow organizations to collect, store, and analyze large amounts of data. They typically work with databases, data pipelines, and cloud platforms to ensure data is accessible and reliable for analysis. Entry-level data engineers often assist with cleaning and transforming raw data, automating data workflows, and supporting data scientists and analysts. They also learn best practices in data security and performance optimization as they gain experience.

What are some typical projects or tasks that entry-level data engineers work on during their first year?

As an entry-level data engineer, you can expect to work on tasks such as building and maintaining data pipelines, cleaning and transforming raw data, and supporting the integration of different data sources. You'll often collaborate with data analysts and more senior engineers to ensure data is accurate, accessible, and well-documented. Early projects might include automating data extraction processes, setting up basic ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) workflows, or optimizing database queries. These foundational responsibilities help build the technical and teamwork skills essential for career growth in data engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level data engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Data Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in programming (such as Python or SQL), data structures, and database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with ETL tools, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), and version control systems is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with teams and adapt to evolving data needs. These skills ensure accurate data processing, efficient pipeline development, and successful integration within data-driven organizations.

What is the difference between Data Engineer Entry Level vs Data Analyst Entry Level?

AspectData Engineer Entry LevelData Analyst Entry Level
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, IT, or related field; some certifications (e.g., Google Cloud, AWS)Bachelor's in Statistics, Math, or related field; certifications like Microsoft Data Analyst
Work EnvironmentFocus on building data pipelines, databases, and infrastructureFocus on interpreting data, creating reports, and visualizations
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, finance, healthcare, where data infrastructure is keyBusiness intelligence, marketing, finance, and consulting firms

While both roles involve working with data, Data Engineer Entry Level focuses on developing and maintaining data infrastructure, whereas Data Analyst Entry Level emphasizes analyzing data to generate insights. Both roles require strong technical skills and are essential in data-driven organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Engineer jobs in Harrisonburg, VA?

The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Harrisonburg, VA are:

What cities near Harrisonburg, VA are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs?

Cities near Harrisonburg, VA with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:

Infographic showing various Data Engineer Entry Level job openings in Harrisonburg, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,899 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

99071 - EDGE Civil Engineering

Virginia Department of Transportation

Staunton, VA • On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in the Employee Development Growth Experience (EDGE) Program for Civil Engineers and apply engineering studies to develop technical and leadership competencies.

  • Perform analyses, prepare reports, and provide recommendations based on engineering determinations related to assigned program areas.

  • Manage assigned engineering projects to ensure timely and accurate completion, including planning, scheduling, and coordinating activities.


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

594th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Equip entry-level individuals to fill designated critical engineering roles and contribute effective results to the organization. The individual in this position participates in the Employee Development Growth Experience (EDGE) Program for Civil Engineers, and through the program, applies their engineering studies as a competent VDOT engineer. Development entails the technical and leadership competencies that are required for an Architect Engineer I in one of the following engineering disciplines - Location and Design, Materials, Residency Operations, Construction, Structure and Bridge, Maintenance, Environmental, Transportation Planning and Traffic Engineering Operations. Perform special duties as assigned. Provide technical advice, guidance and training regarding assigned engineering program areas. Prepare analyses, reports, and recommendations based on engineering determinations. Provide engineering support and consultation related to engineering program area. Effectively manage assigned projects to ensure timely and accurate completion. Communicate with internal VDOT staff, local government staff, consultants, citizens and FHWA regarding transportation projects and programs.
How you will contribute:
  • Analysis and Technical Reporting: Analyze and interpret engineering data and information. Prepare complete, clear and concise reports and recommendations.
  • Communication: Establish an effective line of communication between VDOT, contractors, government agencies and the public. Investigate issues and resolve complaints.
  • Construction: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Construction functional area to include field inspections and project documentation.
  • Engineering Process Management: Use established VDOT policies and procedures in the development and delivery of engineering projects. Engineering projects are completed in compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Environmental: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Environmental functional area to include its role, function and responsibilities.
  • Maintenance: Demonstrates a general knowledge of the Maintenance functional area to include maintenance systems and maintenance activities.
  • Manage Assigned Activities: Plan, schedule and coordinate engineering program activities such that deliverables are met within the established scope and timeline.
  • Materials: Demonstrates a general knowledge of materials to include quality assurance, pavement, and geotechnical engineering.
  • Planning: Demonstrates a general knowledge of transportation planning to include its role, function and responsibilities.
  • Project Engineering: Assist in the management of projects and tasks including development of and managing the scope, schedule, budget, deliverables, change management, quality, and status reports. Complete multiple concurrent tasks and assignments, and report updates on their status.
  • Residency Operations: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of residency operations to include budget and preliminary engineering, land development, construction, and maintenance.
  • Right of Way: Demonstrates a general knowledge of Right of Way to include its role function and responsibilities.
  • Roadway Design: Demonstrate thorough knowledge of roadway principles and practices, including the project development process, geometric design application, quality control, safety issues, engineering economics, environmental considerations, and construction techniques. Develop roadway designs for a wide range of complex transportation projects.
  • Special Assignments: Manage special program initiatives and projects as assigned. Serve and represent VDOT or assigned program area on various committees and work groups.
  • Structure and Bridge: Demonstrates a general knowledge of structure and bridge to include preliminary design, bridge safety inspection, and bridge maintenance.
  • Teamwork and Customer Service: Demonstrates customer service and work habits that reflect the VDOT Values, and coordinates the flow of information both orally and in writing.
  • Traffic Engineering and Operations: Demonstrates a general knowledge of traffic engineering and operations.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to apply engineering principles and practices.
  • Ability to apply the knowledge to complete projects and other tasks.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with diverse groups.
  • Ability to draw rational conclusions and develop solutions from analysis; make independent decisions; and manage multiple assignments.
  • Ability to enforce and demonstrate safety behaviors, as well as advocate and practice safety in everyday work activities.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to interpret technical data and prepare and maintain detailed reports.
  • Ability to make decisions, as well as determine more efficient processes to produce results and maximize resources.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities with competing deadlines and limited resources.
  • Ability to negotiate outcomes and work with diverse customer groups.
  • Ability to provide detailed reports on review findings.
  • Ability to read and understand highway construction plans.
  • Knowledge engineering specifications and standards.
  • Knowledge of Civil Engineering principles as they relate to roadway design and Standard Design technical knowledge, ensuring compliance with VDOT Standards.
  • Knowledge of VDOT, state, and federal policies and procedures relating to transportation engineering.
  • Knowledge of construction and maintenance contract policies and procedures.
  • Knowledge of project management procedures and principles.
  • Knowledge of roadway design criteria, construction methods, standards, specifications and materials.
  • Skill in providing and promoting good customer service to internal and external customers.
  • Skill in the use of computers and software applications to include MS Office, project management and engineering software programs.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to apply engineering knowledge to complete projects and other tasks.
  • Ability to make independent decisions, as well as determine more efficient processes to produce results and maximize resources.
  • Ability to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam (F.E.) and obtain the Engineering in Training (EIT) designation within 12 months of employment.
  • Have or will have completed at least a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology or related degree from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) program by the start of employment.
  • Knowledge of construction and maintenance contract policies and procedures.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age by the start of employment.
  • Skill in basic computer operations.

  • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Civil Engineering, or related field desired.
  • Experience in design technology, interpreting technical plans and specifications.
  • Experience in roadway design and geometric design application.
  • Experience in roadway transportation.
  • Possess Engineer in Training (EIT) designation at time of employment.

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    About Us
    VDOT utilizes a market based pay program, which has been approved by DHRM. Therefore, advertised rates of pay may or may not align with the Commonwealth pay bands.
    In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their Certificate of Disability (COD) provided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor within the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their Certificate of Disability. If you need to get a Certificate of Disability, use this link: Career Pathways for Individuals with Disabilities, or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155.
    Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer.
    Please be aware all VDOT positions require pre-employment screenings. These screenings may include the following:
    • Fingerprint based Criminal History Background Check
    • DMV Record Check
    • Work History Verification
    • References
    • Pre-employment physical
    • Drug screen

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