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Entry Level Design Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special projects team supporting priority security systems integration within the Department of State. You will ...

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special projects team supporting priority security systems integration within the Department of State. You will ...

Entry Level Civil Engineer

Elkridge, MD · On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Description This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your ... Design storm sewer systems, roads, trackwork, water storage and wastewater disposal ponds, and ...

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... success! Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

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Entry Level Design information

See Washington salary details

$17

$25

$32

How much do entry level design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level design in Washington is $25.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level DesignGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant courseworkBachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles, freelance projectsDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelance
Industry UsageEntry positions in various industriesCreative and marketing industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in designEntry-level design roles and career path

Entry Level Design typically refers to initial roles requiring basic skills and minimal experience, often involving internships or freelance work. Graphic Designer is a more specific job title that usually requires a formal degree and involves creating visual content for clients or companies. While both roles serve as starting points in the design industry, Entry Level Design is broader, encompassing various entry positions, whereas Graphic Designer is a specialized role within the field.

What is an entry level design job?

An entry level design job is a starting position in the design industry, typically suited for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles often involve assisting senior designers, creating basic design assets, and learning industry tools and workflows. Entry level designers may work in fields such as graphic design, web design, or industrial design, and are expected to have a foundational understanding of design principles and software like Adobe Creative Suite. The goal is to build practical skills, gain experience, and develop a professional portfolio to advance in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in visual communication, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic, web, or industrial design. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and basic knowledge of design systems or prototyping platforms is important. Strong attention to detail, creativity, collaboration, and openness to feedback set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities enable designers to produce high-quality work, adapt to team needs, and grow in a fast-evolving creative field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level design professional expect in their first year?

Entry-level design professionals typically work on a variety of supporting tasks, such as preparing drafts, creating visual assets, and assisting with layout or branding projects. They often collaborate closely with senior designers and art directors, gaining exposure to client feedback and the revision process. While responsibilities may start with smaller assignments, there are frequent opportunities to contribute ideas during team brainstorming sessions and to gradually take on more complex projects as skills develop. This hands-on experience is crucial for building a strong portfolio and understanding real-world design workflows.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Design jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Design jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Design job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,952 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineer

$78K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Short Description

Bowman has an opportunity for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team in Herndon, VA.  

At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That’s why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.


Purpose

Perform all levels of mechanical design including the development of construction documents.


Responsibilities

Leadership and Direction

  • Receive general instruction on key objectives for execution. Receive direction as needed, and especially on difficult assignments and possible solutions. Work is completed using standard engineering techniques and design principles and is reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound professional judgement.

At the Operational and Company Level

  • Assist with the marketing of the firm’s capabilities to establish new clients and enhance relationships.

Do the Work

  • Design appropriate mechanical systems in accordance with current code requirements and sound engineering principles.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers, project manager, and occasionally the client.
  • Conduct field observations visits to accurately document the existing field conditions.
  • Organize/prioritize multiple tasks to complete the design in a sequential efficient manner.
  • Accurately produce the project construction documents to meet milestone schedules within a predetermined hourly budget.
  • Assist in developing construction cost estimates for mechanical systems.
  • Attend coordination and design meetings, as needed.
  • Assist with project specifications and budget construction cost estimating.
  • Address comments from clients, AHJ's & other review authorities; adjust designs accordingly.
  • If directed, review all project related construction administrative items (shop drawings, RFI's, change order proposals).
  • Work within established project budgets.
  • Possess and continue to develop a working knowledge of all codes applicable to the discipline.
  • Possess and continue to develop a working knowledge of AutoCAD and Revit software.

Success Metrics and Competencies
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners.
  • Highly motivated and problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work.
  • Aspirations to grow professionally and advance within the company.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or architectural engineering or related engineering discipline required at time of employment.
  • Entry level position, no prior experience required. Any professional experience is a plus.
  • Knowledgeable of AutoCAD, REVIT, CHVAC/RHVAC, Trane Trace and/or eQuest modeling software.
  • EIT and LEED accreditation preferred.

About Bowman

Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We’re committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.

 

A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.


Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • Primarily indoor professional office environment which may include bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
  • Mobility around an office environment.
  • Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
  • Occasionally outdoor work environment which may include adverse weather conditions, varying temperatures, excessive noise, and/or potential hazards.
  • Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.

#LI-JJ1


Job Description Disclaimer

Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.

Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.

Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.

If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or architectural engineering or related engineering discipline required at time of employment.
  • Entry level position, no prior experience required. Any professional experience is a plus.
  • Knowledgeable of AutoCAD, REVIT, CHVAC/RHVAC, Trane Trace and/or eQuest modeling software.
  • EIT and LEED accreditation preferred.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME