2

Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Engineer will provide engineering support across various sections of the Operations, Quality Control, and Engineering in the Nuclear Operations Group - Lynchburg. Work areas include: Weld ...

The Engineer will provide engineering support across various sections of the Operations, Quality Control, and Engineering in the Nuclear Operations Group - Lynchburg. Work areas include: Weld ...

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time) Job Locations US-VA-Richmond | US-VA-Chesapeake ID 2026-2651 Category Engineering/Operations Type Full-Time Regular Overview Are you an aspiring engineer ready to ...

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time) Job Locations US-VA-Richmond | US-VA-Chesapeake ID 2026-2651 Category Engineering/Operations Type Full-Time Regular Overview Are you an aspiring engineer ready to ...

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time) Job Locations US-VA-Vienna ID 2026-2650 Category Engineering/Operations Type Full-Time Regular Overview Are you an aspiring engineer ready to launch your career in ...

MBP is looking for an entry-level Engineer to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a strong foundation in construction ...

MBP is looking for an entry-level Engineer to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a strong foundation in construction ...

MBP is looking for an entry-level Engineer to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a strong foundation in construction ...

MBP is looking for an entry-level Engineer to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a strong foundation in construction ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$68.8K

$117K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Virginia is $68,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,100.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineer?

An entry-level engineer designs, builds, and maintains the functional aspects of a product, structure, or system for their specific engineering industry. All engineers start out in an entry-level position with fewer responsibilities until they gain work experience. Many start gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship before moving into an entry-level position. An entry-level engineer job description relates to all of the education requirements, skills, detailed tasks, responsibilities that a company or organization requires for their specific engineering job. For example, civil engineers design, construct, and maintain large infrastructure projects, such as highways, bridges, and airports. Electrical engineers design, monitor, and test electrical systems.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as CAD tools, MATLAB, or project management platforms, as well as relevant internships or certifications, is often expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in a dynamic environment. These skills ensure you can contribute to projects, adapt to organizational needs, and grow professionally in the engineering field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry level engineers often face challenges such as adapting to new tools and technologies, understanding company-specific processes, and translating theoretical knowledge into practical solutions. It's also common to navigate working on multidisciplinary teams and learning effective communication with colleagues from different backgrounds. With guidance from mentors and proactive engagement, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that contribute to professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships helpfulBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; licensure optional for some roles
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, manufacturing plants, construction sites, labsDesign, testing, manufacturing, research and development
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level positions across various engineering sectorsMid to senior roles, but entry-level positions are common in manufacturing and design firms

Entry Level Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree and gain hands-on experience through internships. They work in diverse environments like design firms and manufacturing plants. Mechanical Engineers, while often requiring similar credentials, may start in entry-level roles but are more specialized in mechanical systems. Both roles are common in engineering industries, but the term 'Entry Level Engineer' is broader, encompassing various engineering disciplines, including mechanical engineering.

How do I get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, co-op programs, or certifications in tools like AutoCAD or MATLAB can improve your chances; demonstrating problem-solving abilities and a willingness to learn are also important for employers.

What is the easiest entry level engineer job to get into?

Entry-level engineering roles such as manufacturing, technician, or quality assurance positions are often considered easier to obtain due to lower experience requirements and high demand. These jobs typically require basic technical skills, familiarity with tools or software relevant to the field, and sometimes a relevant certification or associate degree.

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

Entry-level engineering jobs are competitive because employers often seek candidates with relevant internships, project experience, or technical skills such as proficiency in CAD, programming, or specific tools. Additionally, many positions require a bachelor's degree and sometimes certifications, which can limit the pool of qualified applicants and make entry into the field more challenging.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,767 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Entry-level Civil or Environmental Engineer

Midlothian, VA • On-site

SCS Engineers
Environmental Consulting Services • 1 - 5K employees

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


SCS Engineers rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 454 rated engineering


Job description

What we are looking for
Are you looking for a career that will make an impact globally and within your local community? SCS is at the forefront of developing sustainable environmental solutions through innovative engineering with a focus on the solid waste industry, emission reductions, and renewable energy projects.
As an entry-level engineer, you will provide engineering/design support to the Mid-Atlantic team within our existing solid waste practice which is focused on providing engineering and environmental services to private and municipal clients in the landfill, landfill gas, air permitting, and solid waste management industries. You'll receive hands-on training and mentorship while gaining valuable experience in both the field and the office. Potential projects include landfill and other solid waste facility permitting and design (all phases, including construction plans, specifications and construction documents), engineering analysis, feasibility studies, report writing, as well as construction oversight. You will be based out of our Richmond, VA office with occasional local travel for fieldwork.
How you can make an impact
As an entry-level engineer, you will contribute to a variety of technical, regulatory, and engineering tasks, including:
  • Prepare engineering calculations in support of reports and design and permit documents.
  • Prepare engineering and permitting design drawings using AutoCAD.
  • Prepare permit applications and/or regulatory agency submittals and responses with supporting documentation.
  • Complete quality control reviews on all work (reports, design plans, design calculations, data, etc.) prior to submission.
  • Coordinate with contractors, subcontractors, and clients as directed.
  • Prepare short form site-specific health and safety plans as requested.
  • Participate in health and safety training as required.
  • Conduct and document construction quality assurance observations in the field to ensure compliance with construction documents.
  • Work may include both office and field activities, such as field meetings with clients.
  • Multi-media sampling (soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, air) and reporting.
  • Oversight of construction activities, collection of samples, etc., as well as office activities including engineering analysis.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science degree in civil, environmental, biosystems, or geotechnical engineering required.
  • 3 months of relevant solid waste, environmental and/or engineering internship, work and/or research experience required.
  • Basic AutoCAD and Autodesk Civil3D knowledge is preferred.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with keen attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal technical communication skills.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License with a driving record in good standing required.

Pay Range
USD $70,000.00 - USD $75,000.00 /Yr.
Additional Information
Please note that our pay ranges are determined by several factors, including relevant experience, internal pay equity, and location. They do not include any of the amazing benefits of being an employee-owner, which are listed below.
SCS is building a world where environmental systems and infrastructure strengthen the health, safety and resilience of communities - from reducing methane emissions at landfills to producing alternative energy, from repurposing contaminated properties to sequestering carbon.
As a 100% employee-owned firm, we bring a long-term perspective, personal ownership and shared success to everything we do. We live our values every day: We care. We are a team. We are tenacious.
Join us and be part of a team where your work has real impact - on the world and on your own growth.
As a growing firm, we offer excellent opportunities for career advancement and a comprehensive package, including:
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability Insurance
• 100% employer- funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401K including employer match
• Annual Bonus Program
• Student Debt Employer Contribution Program
• Paid holidays, PTO and Paid Parental Leave
SCS Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). SCS provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran or disabled status.
If you have questions, difficulty using our online system and/or you need an accommodation due to a disability then please contact us about your interest in employment at recruiting@scsengineers.com
#LI-JM1

What SCS Engineers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom