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Data Engineer Entry Level Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Description SAIC is currently seeking a motivated and energetic Java/JEE Developer (Entry Level) to ... Generating test data and performing Data Validation by writing SQL queries. * Work with users in an ...

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Data Engineer Entry Level information

See Reston, VA salary details

$46.3K

$135K

$184.7K

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for data engineer entry level in Reston, VA is $134,951.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,100.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Data Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA? For Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Data Engineer Entry Level jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Data Engineer Entry Level job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Engineer Entry Level job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,951 per year, or $64.9 per hour.
Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Bethesda, MD

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

259th of 349 rated engineering


Job description

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary:

The Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer will work in a fast-paced multi-discipline team environment. Our Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing building HVAC and producing construction documentation Residential, Higher Education, Commercial, Science and Technology, and Federal Facilities. This position is offered in a hybrid work environment, with a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Read and understand construction documents including drawings, floor plans, specifications, and equipment details.
  • Develop HVAC system designs of a given project based on scope of work and/or client RFPs while supporting project development from concept design through construction.
  • Provide engineering design, evaluation, and planning of mechanical systems for a variety of market types.
  • Perform heating and cooling load calculations and energy analysis with software such as Trace 700 or similar programs.
  • Conduct building surveys and documentation of existing HVAC systems and site conditions.
  • Provide construction support through reviewing equipment submittals, responding to contractor questions, and issuing reviews and reports.
  • Write and edit project specifications, narratives, reports, and other technical documentation.
  • Assist in procuring new work; including developing client relationships and participating in project interviews when required.
  • Perform drawing production and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for mechanical systems.
  • Complete engineering calculations, equipment sizing and selection, system layout, and interdisciplinary coordination.
  • Apply knowledge of building codes and industry standards in the development of mechanical system designs.
  • Attend internal and external meetings to obtain design input information.
  • Communicate effectively in person and in writing with project teams, clients, and contractors to ensure timely sharing of project information.
  • Work independently while collaborating with internal teams and utilizing available resources to develop effective engineering solutions.
  • Support project teams in delivering work products that meet project requirements and quality expectations and assist in resolving project issues.
  • Perform project billable work and engineering responsibilities consistent with expected utilization goals while contributing to successful project delivery.
  • Foster an environment where new ideas are discussed and developed collaboratively to create practical solutions to client challenges.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • EIT Certification preferred but not required with a willingness to obtain in 1-2 years.
  • You have design experience in the MEP industry.
  • You are knowledgeable in the design of HVAC systems.
  • You have 0 - 2 years of experience in engineering and design.
  • Should have working knowledge of the ASHRAE, ASME, NFPA, and NEC; with a preference for knowledge of IBC, IMC, and IPC requirements.

Skills/Abilities:

  • Efficient in MS Office, Outlook, and engineering calculation software
  • Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in the face of shifting projects and deadlines
  • Good communication skills, combined with organizational skills, the ability to plan, balance and prioritize work
  • Ability to operate Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD, RevitTMand BIM360 software

Location: Bethesda, MD

Travel: Limited

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $95,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.