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Design Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

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 ...

Cymertek

Hardware Design Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Hardware Design Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a talented and innovative Hardware ...

Cymertek

Hardware Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Hardware Design Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a talented and innovative ...

Cymertek

Hardware Design Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

Hardware Design Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position requires full U.S. Citizenship) KEY SUMMARY We are seeking a talented and innovative Hardware ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

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 ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA

\n \n \n Design Engineer Imperative Systems is a privately\-owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

\n \n \n Design Engineer Imperative Systems is a privately\-owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and ...

EMD LLC

Design Engineer

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

... engineering services planned or performed. · Specify, design, procure, install equipment or products for technical security and information technology systems, such as: Technical systems/closed ...

Quartermaster AI Inc

Senior Design Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Design Engineer who thrives at the intersection of operational complexity, user interface design, and front-end engineering. Reporting to the CTO and working cross ...

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$67/hr

Digital Design Engineer Client: Defense-Aerospace Hourly Rate: up to $67/hr W2, non-benefited Length: Temp-to-Perm Location: Manassas, VA Clearance: Ability to obtain a Department of Defense Secret ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD

$58 - $80/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design and development of high-reliability mechanical systems. This role involves concept development ...

Actalent

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD

$58 - $80/hr

Mechanical Design Engineer We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design and development of high-reliability mechanical systems. This role involves concept development ...

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$67/hr

Digital Design Engineer Client: Defense-Aerospace Hourly Rate: up to $67/hr W2, non-benefited Length: Temp-to-Perm Location: Manassas, VA Clearance: Ability to obtain a Department of Defense Secret ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Design Engineer Associate

Tysons, VA · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

Uses the electrical engineering web site to access department guides and standards * Assist other engineers in producing conceptual design to construction documents from utilization voltage to low ...

Alpha Corporation

Roadway Design Engineer

Sterling, VA

$85K - $115K/yr

Alpha has been performing civil engineering design services since the firm's inception. Our vision is to be recognized by our clients for responsive, innovative, and quality services in the building ...

SAIC

Hardware Design Engineer

College Park, MD

$160K - $200K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description Gardetto Engineering, an SAIC company is seeking a Hardware Design Engineer in College Park, MD . This position requires an active TS/SCI with poly. Job responsibilities ...

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All JobsDesign Engineer JobsDesign Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Design Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$42.1K

$91.7K

$164.9K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Reston, VA is $91,707.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,700.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

More about Design Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Design Engineer job openings:
Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,707 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Design Engineer

Imperative Systems

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

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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