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Design Engineer Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Alpha Corporation

Roadway Design Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$78.30K - $96.40K/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 ...

Alpha

Roadway Design Engineer

Dulles, VA · On-site

$76.70K - $94.50K/yr

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

X Energy LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$77.50K - $105K/yr

This role is responsible for the engineering design and development of mechanical systems, structures, and components such as Reactor Internal Structures, Steam Generator System, Helium Circulator ...

Hksinc

Sustainable Design Engineer

Reston, VA

Performs detailed engineering analysis to reduce energy consumption and associated GHG emissions across design, construction, and operations, aligned with integrated project performance goals

X Energy LLC

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD

$77.50K - $105K/yr

This role is responsible for the engineering design and development of mechanical systems, structures, and components such as Reactor Internal Structures, Steam Generator System, Helium Circulator ...

Alpha Corporation

Roadway Design Engineer

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$75.70K - $93.30K/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 ...

Hksinc

Sustainable Design Engineer

Washington, DC

Performs detailed engineering analysis to reduce energy consumption and associated GHG emissions across design, construction, and operations, aligned with integrated project performance goals

exp

Electrical Design Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$161.78K - $171.78K/yr

Electrical Design Engineer POSITION: Perform quality control on own work and work of Designer level staff, including drawings, RFI answers, and submittal reviews; collaborate with Sr. Engineer to ...

EXP

Electrical Design Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$161.78K - $171.78K/yr

Electrical Design Engineer POSITION: Perform quality control on own work and work of Designer level staff, including drawings, RFI answers, and submittal reviews; collaborate with Sr. Engineer to ...

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Design Engineer information

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$41.9K

$91.1K

$163.9K

How much do design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for design engineer in Silver Spring, MD is $91,127.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $101,800.00 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 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 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 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.

More about Design Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What job categories do people searching Design Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Design Engineer jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Design Engineer job openings:
Design Engineer jobs near you
Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$75.40K - $102.10K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 56 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you looking for impactful mechanical design and analysis work in advanced aerodynamic weapon systems? Are you passionate about designing new vehicles and advancing state-of-the-art technologies? Do you thrive in a fast-paced environment where you can rapidly prototype and build hardware?
We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to support cradle to grave support for new and existing precision strike weapon systems. Each of our engineers are expected to be able to take a design through the entire development process including requirements definition, clean-sheet design, CAD renderings, structural analysis, manufacturing supervision, installation, and test.
As a member of our team, you will contribute to exciting, mission-driven projects that support the U.S. Department of Defense and the warfighter. Our team is dedicated to developing, applying, and sustaining deep expertise in low and high speed flight vehicle design, wind tunnel and test article development, and vehicle-level dynamics and thermal analysis. You will work alongside experts who are passionate about conducting cutting-edge research and applying it to advance our nation's capabilities.
As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will...
  • Design and perform mechanical/structural analysis of DoD weapon systems and other vehicles.
  • Develop future conceptual vehicle designs and execute detailed and system-level design activities, including integration with launch systems and platforms.
  • Design and build wind tunnel models and other rapid-prototype hardware, coordinating with external vendors and internal manufacturing teams to meet requirements and schedules.
  • Lead and contribute to planning activities for future projects and initiatives while providing technical guidance for ongoing projects.
  • Prepare reports and presentations to communicate technical results to team members and government sponsors.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:
  • Hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have relevant experience in aerospace hardware or mechanism design, manufacturing, and assembly.
  • Have at least three years of experience performing structural, dynamic, and/or thermal analysis of flight systems or ground support equipment.
  • Have at least three years of experience with CAD design, assembly, and/or drafting using tools such as SolidWorks or Creo.
  • Have experience with MATLAB or similar computational tools.
  • Have strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at government and contractor sites.
  • Are comfortable working in closed-area facilities.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information, including U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond if...
  • Hold a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Have knowledge of nonlinear analysis and/or experience with high-temperature materials.
  • Have experience with aerospace environmental and verification testing.
  • Have experience using ANSYS, LS-DYNA, or ABAQUS.
  • Have experience with lethality and explosives modeling and validation
  • Have experience with aerospace manufacturing, rapid prototyping techniques, or wind tunnel test article design.
  • Have demonstrated initiative, motivation, and adaptability.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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