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Design Development Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Develop ESS engineering packages at progressive detail levels: 30% (conceptual\/schematic), 80% (design development), 90% (construction documents), and final (as\-built) design-ensuring each phase ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Develop ESS engineering packages at progressive detail levels: 30% (conceptual\/schematic), 80% (design development), 90% (construction documents), and final (as\-built) design-ensuring each phase ...

Gensler

Design Manager - Sports

Washington, DC

$125K - $150K/yr

... development, construction documents and production * Collaborate with design team, clients ... consultants, contractors, fabricators, regulatory agencies and other vendors to meet overall ...

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Design Development information

See Washington salary details

$10

$24

$36

How much do design development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for design development in Washington is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Development vs Design Engineer?

AspectDesign DevelopmentDesign Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, architecture, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in engineering, design, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, design studios, project sitesEngineering offices, manufacturing plants, project sites
Industry UsageArchitecture, product design, industrial designMechanical, civil, electrical engineering projects

Design Development focuses on refining and evolving design concepts, often involving creative and aesthetic decisions. Design Engineers apply engineering principles to develop functional, safe, and manufacturable products or systems. While both roles require technical knowledge, Design Development emphasizes creative design progression, whereas Design Engineers focus on technical feasibility and engineering solutions.

What is a development designer?

A development designer is a professional involved in the design and planning phases of a project, often in fields like architecture, product design, or software development. They collaborate with engineers, architects, or developers to create detailed plans, prototypes, or models, utilizing tools such as CAD software or design programs. Strong creativity, technical skills, and understanding of project requirements are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid design job?

Senior roles in industrial, UX, or product design tend to be among the highest paid in the design field, often earning six-figure salaries. Executive-level design positions such as Creative Director or Design Director can also command high compensation, especially in large corporations or specialized industries.

What is design development?

Design development is a phase in the architectural and design process where initial concepts are refined into detailed plans and specifications. During this stage, designers work out the specifics of materials, dimensions, systems, and aesthetics, often collaborating with engineers and consultants. The goal is to translate ideas from the schematic design phase into precise documentation that can be used for construction. This stage helps ensure that the project is feasible, meets client needs, and complies with regulations.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design, user experience (UX) directors and creative directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large companies or tech industries. These roles require advanced skills in design, leadership, and strategic planning, and often involve managing teams and overseeing large projects.

What are some common challenges faced in a Design Development role and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Design Development often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with practical constraints like budget, timeline, and client requirements. Navigating feedback from multiple stakeholders and ensuring that design intent is maintained throughout the development process can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed by fostering strong communication within cross-functional teams, maintaining detailed documentation, and using iterative design reviews to ensure alignment. By staying adaptable and solution-oriented, design development specialists can help bridge the gap between concept and execution.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In design development, high-paying roles such as freelance designers, UX/UI specialists, or product developers can earn $10,000 or more monthly through project-based work, client contracts, or building a strong portfolio. Success often depends on skills, experience, reputation, and the ability to secure high-value projects without formal degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Design Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Design Development, you need a solid background in design principles, project management, and a relevant degree such as architecture, industrial design, or engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and design documentation systems is typically expected. Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively translate concepts into practical solutions and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for delivering innovative, functional designs that meet client needs and project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Development jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Design Development jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Development jobs in Washington? For Design Development jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Development jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Design Development jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Design Development jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Design Development job openings:
Design Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Development job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,430 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Design Engineer

Imperative Systems

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

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About Imperative Systems<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Imperative Systems is a privately\-owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and securely. We provide expeditionary mission support, critical infrastructure protection, and strategic advisory services on a worldwide basis to support the National Security Community. We are adaptive and agile, meeting the emerging needs of our specialized clientele. We strive to build a culture of excellence around a team of the best people, equipped with the best skills and technical support to deliver results that exceed expectations, even in the most difficult circumstances.
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Position Overview<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Imperative is seeking a Design Engineer to join our Critical Infrastructure Protection team supporting priority electronic security systems (ESS) integration within the Department of State. In this role, you will design comprehensive ESS architectures for small\-to\-medium scale facilities-from individual buildings to campus environments of 2-10 structures. You will develop complete engineering packages at progressive levels of detail (30%, 80%, 90%, and final design), incorporating physical security infrastructure including intrusion detection, CCTV, access control, emergency notification, and power distribution systems. You will also test, evaluate, and integrate a range of sensors and protective technologies as part of a larger team supporting deployment of bespoke solutions for our clients.
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Responsibilities<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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ESS Architecture & Facility Design<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Design electronic security system (ESS) architectures for single\-building and multi\-building campus facilities (2-10 structures), integrating CCTV, intrusion detection, access control, emergency notification, and perimeter security systems into cohesive, site\-specific designs.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop ESS engineering packages at progressive detail levels: 30% (conceptual\/schematic), 80% (design development), 90% (construction documents), and final (as\-built) design-ensuring each phase meets customer requirements and compliance standards.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Produce facility security plans, riser diagrams, floor plans, site plans, and system interconnect drawings using AutoCAD and related design tools.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Coordinate ESS designs with building infrastructure systems including power distribution, telecommunications, conduit\/cable pathways, and life safety systems to ensure proper integration within the built environment.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Conduct technical security assessments of existing facilities and recommend security upgrades based on identified vulnerabilities, customer requirements, and applicable standards.
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Systems Integration & Testing<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop strategies to test and verify electronic security systems and make recommendations to improve testing and operational demonstration.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Document and analyze test data; develop systems integration plans to network sensors and provide data feeds to command\-and\-control (C2) systems.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop code to network sensors or provide data feeds in C2 systems using relevant programming languages.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Specify, design, and procure equipment for technical security systems including: CCTV (analog and digital\/IP), intrusion detection and alarm systems, locking devices and automated access control systems, emergency notification and mass warning systems, countermeasures equipment, and acoustic\/RF attenuation technologies.
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Documentation & Communication<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Produce a variety of written documents including engineering surveys, service reports, memoranda, trip reports, telegraphic communications, and maintenance reports detailing specific engineering services planned or performed.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop strategies and materials for transition of completed systems to operators, including training documentation and operational guides.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Present information and briefings to senior managers, government clients, and technical stakeholders both orally and in writing.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Conduct periodic and refresher training on the proper use, care, maintenance, and preventive maintenance of assigned systems in accordance with program guidance.
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Program Support<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Support the team lead including the ability to respond to urgent requirements quickly and to analyze complex technical problems.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Maintain expert\-level knowledge of installed base products and strive to sustain and improve current technical security capabilities.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Provide expert consulting services on new product developments and technological applications in the electronic security market.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Identify security risks, analyze those risks, and specify system requirements and procedural measures to ensure the integrity of security systems.
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Work Environment & Travel<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Work Environment: <\/b>Full\-time, 40 hours per week when assigned to a domestic location. Full\-time, 60 hours per week when deployed overseas.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Travel: <\/b>Position is based domestically but requires approximately 25% travel to various overseas locations. Domestic travel may be required for training and coordination.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Physical Requirements: <\/b>Work can on occasion be physically demanding, including site surveys, equipment installation oversight, and field assessments.
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Requirements<\/h3>\n
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Requirements<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Citizenship & Clearance<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Citizenship: <\/b>Must be a US citizen.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Passport: <\/b>Must be able to obtain and travel on a US passport.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Security Clearance: <\/b>Must possess a minimum SECRET clearance to start and be able to obtain and maintain a TOP SECRET security clearance. Candidates without an existing clearance but with otherwise exceptional qualifications will be considered.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Medical: <\/b>Must be able to obtain and maintain a Class 1 medical clearance prior to deployment.
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Education<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>BS\/BA in a related engineering discipline or advanced degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Preferred disciplines: <\/b>Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, or Building Systems Engineering.
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Technical Skills<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Design Software: <\/b>AutoCAD (required), SolidWorks, Autodesk Revit, Visio, Microsoft Office Suite.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Programming: <\/b>MATLAB, C, C++, Java, Python, Linux, or other relevant language.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Security Systems Knowledge: <\/b>Familiarity with CCTV systems (analog and IP), intrusion detection systems (IDS), automated access control systems (AACS), emergency notification systems, and life safety systems.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Infrastructure Knowledge: <\/b>Understanding of building power distribution, conduit and cable pathways, telecommunications infrastructure, and how these systems integrate within facility design.
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Experience (1-5 Years Preferred)<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience designing or supporting electronic security system installations for small\-to\-medium scale facilities (single buildings or campuses of 2-10 structures).
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience producing engineering drawings, facility plans, or system design packages at multiple levels of detail (conceptual through construction documents).
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to work collaboratively within a cross\-functional development team, managing multiple tasks with competing priorities in dynamic, politically sensitive environments.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience effectively and professionally communicating technical and program\-related information to multiple stakeholders.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Knowledge of Agile development and systems engineering processes.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Direct working knowledge of computer systems, computer security, and familiarity with operating systems, hardware platforms, and networks.
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Additional Desired Experience<\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Construction management experience (electrical\/power, cabling, telecommunications).
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with facility infrastructure design: power systems, grounding, conduit routing, and cable management.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with building management systems (BMS) and building automation.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Fiber optic certification.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience conducting technical security assessments, product evaluations, and recommending security upgrades.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Familiarity with DoS or DoD facility security standards and compliance requirements.
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience with acoustic\/RF attenuation technologies and countermeasures equipment.
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Benefits<\/h3>\n
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Benefits<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Successful candidates will be eligible to participate in Imperative's Health Benefits for the duration of their employment. They will also be eligible to enroll in Imperative's 401(k).
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Equal Opportunity Statement<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Imperative Systems LLC provides equal opportunity to all applicants for employment as required by and\/or consistent with applicable country law and company policy. Consistent with the foregoing, Imperative Systems LLC provides qualified applicants consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veterans' status, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other status(s) protected by law. In the United States, Imperative Systems LLC ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
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