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Entry Level Downstream Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Downstream Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$35

$57

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level downstream engineer in Washington, DC is $35.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.06 and $39.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Downstream Engineer vs Entry Level Upstream Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Downstream EngineerEntry Level Upstream Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentRefining plants, distribution facilities, sales, and marketingExploration sites, drilling rigs, production facilities
Industry UsageOil refining, petrochemical production, downstream operationsOil and gas exploration, drilling, production

Entry Level Downstream Engineers focus on refining, distribution, and marketing of petroleum products, working mainly in processing plants and sales environments. In contrast, Entry Level Upstream Engineers are involved in exploration and extraction activities at drilling sites. Both roles require a background in engineering and are essential in the oil and gas industry, but they differ in their focus and work settings.

What is an entry level downstream engineer?

An entry level downstream engineer is an entry-level professional responsible for managing and optimizing the refining, processing, and distribution of petroleum products. They typically work with process control systems, safety protocols, and may require knowledge of industry software and certifications such as OSHA or API standards. This role often involves supporting operations, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Why is it so hard to get an entry-level downstream engineer job?

Entry-level downstream engineer positions are competitive due to high demand for specialized skills such as process optimization, safety protocols, and familiarity with industry tools like HYSYS or Aspen Plus. Employers often prefer candidates with relevant internships, technical certifications, or a strong understanding of refining or petrochemical processes, making entry into the field challenging for those lacking experience or specific qualifications.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Downstream Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,766 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Systems Engineer
Gromelski and Associates, Inc. (GAI) partners with prime contractors to provide professional services. Key service areas include Engineering Design and Documentation; Software Development and Testing; System Integration, Testing and Evaluation; Lab Management and Field Installation; Integrated Logistics Support, Training Development and Delivery, Multimedia Support, and Technical System Support.
Systems Engineer Job Description:
We are seeking an early career Systems Engineer to join our Integrated Submarine Imaging Systems Program Team. The Imaging System is one subsystem supporting multiple operational classes of the United States submarine force. The Imaging subsystem provides mission critical, all-weather, visual, and electronic search data and digital imagery. As a Systems Engineer, you'll join a multi-disciplinary team that uses a systems-engineering approach to translate customer needs and requirements into system architectures and solutions composed of a range of commercial and custom developed hardware and software. The role involves analyzing system and inter-system requirements, emerging technologies, tools, and new hardware and software capabilities in support of delivering a total system solution.We're looking for a candidate with strong technical skills, innovative ideas, and a focus on execution.
Systems Engineer Required Tasks:
• Perform requirements analysis to define system objectives, constraints, and stakeholder needs in support of downstream development activities
• Participate in multidisciplinary product teams responsible for establishing complex technical solutions
• Generate and maintain systems engineering documentation in the form of requirements documents, verification matrices, test plans, test procedures, architecture diagrams, interface definitions, and engineering reports
• Develop system and system architecture models using Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) software
• Perform market research on candidate products and technologies, conduct trade studies, and establish technical recommendations
• Perform hands on prototyping and critical item testing of new products and capabilities
• Operate in an agile development environment with tasking assigned and prioritized during shorter duration sprints and longer duration planning increments
• Develop and deliver presentations for Program meetings and Customer reviews.
Systems Engineer Basic Requirements:
• Prior professional or project based experience demonstrating technical problem solving ability
• Entry level knowledge of systems engineering processes, requirements engineering, CONOPS development, interface design, system integration and/or verification/test to accommodate End to End Systems Engineering
Systems Engineer Desired Requirements:
• Prior experience working in military/defense program is desirable, but not required
• Experience working with multiple engineering disciplines, including Hardware, Software, Systems Engineering , and Test
• Experience with developing and maintaining systems engineering documentation including
o Requirements
o System and subsystem design definitions
o Interface definitions
o Verification and Validation (V&V) methodologies
o Trade study outcomes/reports/recommendations
• Experience with SysML, UML, and MBSE software (Cameo preferred)
• Some experience with running applications, commands, and scripts within Linux
• Some experience with performing tests with lab instruments such as oscilloscopes, and signal generators
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills
• Proactive/self-starter. Task driven with ability to work independently
• Team player that takes ownership and develops relationships that fosters team success
Systems Engineer Additional Requirements:
• Candidate with a BS or MS in Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline.
• Must be able to obtain and keep a DoD Secret Clearance which means you must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Skills in analysis, critical thinking, and technical problem solving.
• Excellent interpersonal, written/verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multitask, shift priorities, and be willing to adapt or improve.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Job: Full-Time Employee, 40 hours/week
Benefits: We offer a competitive benefit package.
Click here Careers | GAI (e-gai.com) for more information.
Salary Range: Negotiable
Start Date: Negotiable
Job Location: Manassas, VA. (Relocation Assistance Available)
Gromelski and Associates is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor.
If you have reached our website in search of an employment opportunity or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Sarah Gromelski via email at info@e-gai.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodation.