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Design Engineer Jobs in Hampton, VA (NOW HIRING)

Highway Design Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Responsible for engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute and coordinate assignments. Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g.

Develop engineering documentation, design standards, and best practices to improve consistency across the manufacturing network. * Coordinate with external engineering firms, contractors, and ...

Civil Design Engineer

Surry, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $98/hr

This role involves engineering design, structural analysis, piping support design, rigging evaluations, and field implementation for large infrastructure and plant modification projects. Key ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Engineer information

See Hampton, VA salary details

$39.1K

$85.2K

$153.2K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Hampton, VA is $85,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $95,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design engineer?

Design engineers develop ideas for new products and determine ways to improve existing products. As a design engineer, you put a creative perspective on your technical engineering knowledge to perform your job duties, which include creating sketches of design ideas and using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to generate plans for prototypes. To ensure the product is viable, you also evaluate other aspects of the product design, such as safety, cost, sustainability, aesthetics, and user experience. You collaborate with a team of technicians and other engineers to run tests, troubleshoot problems, and ultimately produce a newly designed product.

What does a design engineer do?

A Design Engineer is responsible for creating and developing new products, systems, or structures by combining engineering principles with creative design. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings and specifications, working closely with other engineers and teams to ensure functionality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Design Engineers are involved in every stage of product development, from initial concept through prototyping, testing, and final production. Their work often requires problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, CAD software proficiency, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, along with certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), are commonly required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and translating ideas into workable designs. These abilities ensure innovative, efficient, and manufacturable solutions that meet both technical and client requirements.

How does a design engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Design Engineers regularly work alongside teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and product management to ensure that designs are both innovative and feasible for production. Collaboration often involves participating in cross-functional meetings, reviewing prototypes, and incorporating feedback from various stakeholders. This teamwork is essential to address technical and practical challenges early in the design process, which ultimately helps in delivering a successful product to market. Strong communication and adaptability are key skills for thriving in this collaborative environment.

What is the difference between Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectDesign EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Design certifications often preferredBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningManufacturing plants, labs, fieldwork, CAD and testing
Employer & Industry UsageProduct design firms, automotive, aerospace, consumer goodsManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Design Engineers focus on creating and developing product designs using CAD tools, while Mechanical Engineers often work on the broader application, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Design Engineers typically emphasize design skills and software proficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers may engage more in analysis and system integration.

What jobs can a design engineer do?

A design engineer creates and develops new products, systems, or structures across industries such as automotive, aerospace, electronics, and manufacturing. They use CAD software, perform simulations, and collaborate with teams to ensure functionality and safety. Design engineers often work in research and development, product design, or process improvement roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA?

For Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Hampton, VA are:

What cities near Hampton, VA are hiring for Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Hampton, VA with the most Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Hampton, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,191 per year, or $41 per hour.

Highway Design Engineer

Clark Nexsen

Virginia Beach, VA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description


Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.
Position summary: Responsible for engineering design using knowledge of general engineering principles and practices to interpret, organize, execute and coordinate assignments. Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.
Compensation for this position is $80,000.00 - $110,000.00, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Perform alternative studies
  • Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography and other topographical or geologic data to plan projects
  • Layout of highway and roadway design elements including roadways, sidewalks, open and closed drainage design and traffic relate items
  • Perform design computations
  • Design projects in accordance with client specifications and guidelines, using design software and drawing tools
  • Develop construction cost estimates
  • Assist in the preparation of engineering documents for advertisement and construction
  • Coordinate with internal team members to ensure project completion by the defined deadline and established quality

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Skills
  • Proficient in discipline specific design software
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office
  • Written and oral communication skills

Required Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field from ABET accredited engineering program
  • 2-5 years of experience

Qualifications Preferred
  • Engineer-in-training certification
  • Related experience
  • Experience working with local clients at the county and state level

Working Conditions
Work is generally performed within an office environment. Work is generally sedentary in nature, but may require occasional standing and walking. Lighting and temperature are adequate and there are no hazardous or unpleasant conditions caused by noise, dust, etc. within the office environment.
Field work is required on occasion where work may be conducted outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, and dry/arid conditions. Some lifting (up to 25lbs) may be required as needed.
Benefits
JMT offers outstanding opportunities for career and professional growth. We are 100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:
  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options)
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Career Development Programs
  • And more...
  • Benefits JMT

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.