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Electrical Engineer Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Overview CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

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X31 ELECTRICAL Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes ... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ...

X31 ELECTRICAL Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes ... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ...

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Electrical Engineer Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$50.1K

$110.1K

$166.6K

How much do electrical engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical engineer trainee in Virginia is $110,138.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $130,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can an Electrical Engineer Trainee expect during their first year on the job?

As an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks such as assisting with circuit design, supporting testing and troubleshooting of electrical systems, and preparing technical documentation under the guidance of senior engineers. You’ll likely rotate through different projects to gain exposure to multiple aspects of electrical engineering, from power distribution to control systems. Collaboration is key, as you’ll frequently work alongside more experienced engineers, technicians, and sometimes cross-functional teams like mechanical or software engineers. This hands-on experience helps build a solid foundation for future advancement within the company or industry.

How to get into electrical engineering with no experience?

To become an electrical engineer trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant degree such as electrical engineering or electronics, and develop skills in circuit design, programming, and using tools like MATLAB or AutoCAD. Internships, entry-level positions, or volunteering can provide practical experience, and earning certifications like the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can improve job prospects.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineers typically earn salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry, with most earning well below $500,000 annually. High salaries above this level are usually associated with senior roles, management positions, or specialized fields such as power systems or aerospace, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and may involve leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What are Electrical Engineer Trainees?

Electrical Engineer Trainees are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced electrical engineers to gain practical experience and develop their technical skills. They assist with designing, testing, and maintaining electrical systems and equipment in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. Their responsibilities may include preparing technical drawings, conducting experiments, troubleshooting issues, and learning industry standards. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to more senior engineering positions. Electrical Engineer Trainees often participate in training programs or internships as part of their career development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical Engineer Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Engineer Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, problem-solving ability, and typically a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and circuit simulation software, along with knowledge of safety standards, is important. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel and integrate into engineering teams. These skills and qualities enable effective project support, ensure compliance with technical and safety requirements, and foster professional growth in a demanding field.

What is the difference between Electrical Engineer Trainee vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectElectrical Engineer TraineeElectrical Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in electrical engineeringBachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in training programsFull-time professional role in design, development, or testing
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with projects, learning technical skills, supporting senior engineersDesigning circuits, analyzing systems, managing projects independently

The main difference is that an Electrical Engineer Trainee is in a learning or entry-level phase, focusing on gaining experience, while an Electrical Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for designing and managing electrical systems.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities tend to have the highest compensation levels.
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Virginia? For Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Electrical Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Electrical Engineer Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Electrical Engineer Trainee job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,138 per year, or $53 per hour.

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

CIS Secure

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Job description

Overview

CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to learn the TEMPEST skillset and progress to eventual Certified TEMPEST Practitioner (CTP) certification. The CTP Trainee is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, and configuring of all CIS products that require test. Work includes coordinating with production the pickup and drop off of equipment for test. It is expected that this position will grow into a Certified Tempest Professional position through the Tempest Certification process.  This requires significant professional development.  Qualified candidates will possess strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills, a strong electronic background, experience using DVM, Oscilloscope, hand tools and be self motivated. Active Secret Clearance required. Other duties as assigned.

Responsibilities
  • Work under the guidance of CTPII to test products, and learn the proper test techniques to achieve CTPI status through the Tempest Certification process.
  • Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII instructions to ensure proper operation and test requirement are met.
  • Troubleshoots electronics to determine cause and remedy of any malfunction
  • Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and recommend a corrective action.
  • Sets up and tests units to meet specified test requirements.
  • Recognizes failures and set up problems, isolates problems, and takes appropriate action to resolve those problems.
  • Operates oscilloscopes, generators, meters, power supplies, and test fixtures, and understand their use and function.
  • Operates hand tools and small power tools and understands their use and function.
  • Keeps supervisor apprised of all unresolved and/or potential problems that would negatively affect test schedules.
  • Completes and records proper test data sheets and production reports.
  • Provides support to the CTPII and other engineering staff, and works in other departments and/or miscellaneous assignments as instructed.
  • May conduct detailed experimental testing

OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS:

  • This position anticipates mostly standard hours, with some variability based on surge requirements.
  • This position is expected to perform work on-site at the Ashburn headquarters.

TRAVEL:

  • Some limited overnight travel may be required.
Qualifications

CLEARANCE:

  • Active Secret clearance required.

EDUCATION:

  • Training in electronic theory such as one would receive at a technical trade school, military training, an Associate degree program, or 2-3 years of on the job training. 

CERTIFICATION(S):

  • None required. Trainee position is designed to work towards attainment of Certified TEMPEST Professional (CTP) level 1 certification.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Must have experience using the following equipment: Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, DVM, hand tools, such as soldering irons, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This job operates in a professional office environment.  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Flexibility related to work hours as project demands arise.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary computer position for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to regularly walk.
  • Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Must be able to talk and hear.
  • Must be able to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Occasionally required to lift and / or move up to 75 pounds, assisted and unassisted.
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, with occasional loud noises associated with a manufacturing environment.

Disclaimer:

This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent.  It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent.  An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.

Benefits

WHAT WE OFFER:

At CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Services and Darkblade Systems, we believe in promoting fair and transparent pay practices. We are committed to disclosing the compensation range for transparency and to set clear expectations for all applicants for this posting. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base salary for the advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunity. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on various factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, education, geographic location, as well as internal equity, and alignment to market data.Job Type: Full-time 

Pay Range: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Health Savings Account option
  • Flexible Spending
  • Vision insurance
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Ancillary offerings (Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Pet Insurance)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday pay

CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Darkblade Systems, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME