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Entry Level Building Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Assistant Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$82K - $100K/yr

Job Summary Performs entry-level tasks and progresses to moderately complex Structural Engineering ... Working Knowledge of Steel, Reinforced Concrete, Masonry, Cold Formed Steel, Building Design ...

Plano-Coudon is committed to building the next generation of construction professionals through our Project Engineer program. This entry-level experience introduces new professionals to the ...

Plano-Coudon is committed to building the next generation of construction professionals through our Project Engineer program. This entry-level experience introduces new professionals to the ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

We are looking for a Software Developer with experience in building high-performing, scalable ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

DevOps Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$54 - $74/hr

Chantilly VA We are looking for a DevOps Engineer with experience in building, delivering, and ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

DevOps Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$54 - $74/hr

Chantilly VA We are looking for a DevOps Engineer with experience in building, delivering, and ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

DevOps Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$54 - $74/hr

Chantilly VA We are looking for a DevOps Engineer with experience in building, delivering, and ... Experience developing in an Agile environment Level: Entry Level - SME Clearance: Active security ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Building Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$20

$36

$59

How much do entry level building engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level building engineer in Washington, DC is $36.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 and $41.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Building Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Building EngineerMaintenance Technician
CertificationsHVAC, electrical, or plumbing licenses; relevant certificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial or residential buildings, facilities managementSimilar settings, often hands-on repair and maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with building systems, monitor operations, perform basic repairsPerform repairs, troubleshoot equipment, routine maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageProperty management, facilities services, real estateFacilities management, property maintenance, service companies

Both roles involve maintaining building systems and require similar certifications. An Entry Level Building Engineer typically oversees building operations and assists with system management, while a Maintenance Technician focuses more on hands-on repairs and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap, but the Building Engineer may have broader responsibilities related to building systems management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level building engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Building Engineer, you need a basic understanding of building systems, HVAC, and general maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS), power tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and good communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient building operations, quick troubleshooting, and effective teamwork in maintaining facility safety and functionality.

What does an entry level building engineer do?

An Entry Level Building Engineer assists in the maintenance, repair, and operation of building systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and general facilities upkeep. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers or facility managers, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting basic issues, and ensuring that equipment operates efficiently. This role often involves hands-on work, responding to service requests, and learning industry standards and safety procedures on the job.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level building engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level building engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex building systems, adapting to preventative maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. To address these, new engineers should proactively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in on-the-job training, and make use of available technical documentation. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as collaboration with facility managers, contractors, and other engineers is a regular part of the role. Embracing a willingness to learn and asking questions can help ease the transition and foster professional growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Building Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,207 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Engineering Graduate - Entry Level

Johnson Controls Federal Systems

Arlington, VA • On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 406 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking an entry level engineer who has a desire to learn and grow in the exciting field of HVAC Controls and Building Automation Systems (BAS) to join our Federal Systems team based at one of the most iconic buildings in the world – the Pentagon (military experience is not required). We’ve supported the Pentagon for nearly 20 years with their energy efficiency and sustainability needs, and are looking to grow our team.

At Johnson Controls, we support our nation’s most critical facilities, the people who occupy them, and the missions they enable. Johnson Controls Federal Systems (JCFS) is a specialized team serving as a trusted partner to the federal government. We help modernize U.S. military installations, Department of Defense and other federal agency facilities to be smarter, more resilient, efficient, sustainable, and secure.
Pay range: $40.00 - $50.00 per hour to start with designated milestone pay increases for completed training. Negotiable based on experience. 
Company Vehicle: Yes. Gas card provided also.
Shift: Day shift, primarily 6:30am-3:00pm, Monday-Friday
Benefits: Eligible for benefits on first day of employment
Vacation: 3 weeks of paid vacation, 5 sick days, 3 floating holidays, and 10 standard holidays per calendar year
Travel: Limited. Primary work will all be at the Pentagon. May travel some initially for training.

As an Entry Level Engineer, you will:

  • Conduct self-study and instructor led training to improve technical proficiency in company's product lines and systems; completes certifications as required
  • Perform preventive maintenance, repair, installation, commissioning, point-to-point checkouts, troubleshooting and/or replacement of HVAC controls systems (BAS systems) and related light commercial mechanical equipment; most work will involve Johnson Controls Metasys and Distech controls
  • Diagnose and repair a variety of electronic and digital control system malfunctions
  • Test and perform modifications to systems software when needed
  • Assist with sketching and documenting field changes and discrepancies for engineering corrections and drawings
  • Provide training and associated manuals and documentation to customers on electronic control systems operations
  • Help mechanical staff troubleshoot issues and may help with minor mechanical maintenance
  • Ensure work performed complies with company, federal regulations, industry standards and guidelines, and customer requirements
  • Compile project documentation, such as certificate of completion, customer training forms, training certificates and punch lists
  • Read and properly interpret blueprints, diagrams, submittals, specifications, software/systems programs, schematics and operational product manuals
  • Adhere to Johnson Controls and customer safety standards, provide safety awareness leadership and instruction to technicians and subcontractors on Johnson Controls work sites

Required Qualifications:

  • Associates Degree or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, preferably in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, HVAC, or Industrial Engineering fields
  • U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances and/or badges as required to perform site duties. (This involves a background/character, criminal history, employment, and credit check.)

Preferred Experience:

  • Experience working with HVAC mechanical equipment or HVAC Controls (Direct Digital Controls), VAV's, VRF's, or other related systems and equipment
  • Knowledge of electronic or digital controls systems, HVAC controls systems, facilities management systems, site preparation, peripheral equipment installation and servicing techniques
  • Technical knowledge and experience working with Johnson Controls Metasys, Tridium Niagara, or Distech Direct Digital Control (DDC) system
  • Programming and/or troubleshooting various brands of HVAC controls products is highly desired (Johnson Controls, Honeywell, Siemens, Delta, Distech, Carrier, ALC, Andover) 
  • Experience with BAS communication protocols including at least one of the following: BACnet MSTP, BACnet IP, N2, P1, Modbus, and/or LON
  • Experience using SMP, SCT, and/or CCT


Who We Are

At Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI), we are One Team working collaboratively to create purposeful solutions that make a difference in the world. We are a Fortune 500 company with more than 100,000 employees worldwide offering the world`s largest portfolio of building technology products, solutions and services. As a member of our Federal Systems team, your work matters. We value and recognize your contributions and want to help you succeed. We invest in our employees, provide opportunities for growth and advancement, and foster a culture of inclusion and respect.

To learn more about who we are and what we do, please check out our Take a Journey video.
 

Recently, Johnson Controls has been recognized by several organizations for leadership in Environment, Sustainability and Governance, as well as innovations in smart building platforms:

  • Named to FORTUNE’s “Most Admired Companies” List
  • Corporate Knights Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World
  • Named to Forbes Net Zero Leaders list
  • CDP 2023 Climate Change 'A List'
  • Ranked 67 on the Drucker Institute’s list of best-managed companies in America
  • Forbes Best Employers for Diversity
  • Newsweek  America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity
  • Ethisphere 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies list for the 17th time
  • Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women in 2024
  • Named to Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans 2024 / 2025 listing
  • Named to Forbes America’s Best Employers for Veterans 2024
  • Named one of the top military friendly employers by military.com.

Johnson Controls is an equal employment opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information, please view EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/careers

Division: JCFS (Johnson Controls Federal Systems)

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US