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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA (NOW HIRING)

Targeted Victory

Junior AI Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Overview Targeted Victory is looking for an entry-level engineer to join our AI Development team to help us remain on the cutting edge. This role is suited to individuals who enjoy working on complex ...

Targeted Victory

Junior AI Engineer

Arlington, VA

Overview Targeted Victory is looking for an entry-level engineer to join our AI Development team to help us remain on the cutting edge. This role is suited to individuals who enjoy working on complex ...

Targeted Victory

Junior AI Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Targeted Victory is looking for an entry-level engineer to join our AI Development team to help us remain on the cutting edge. This role is suited to individuals who enjoy working on complex problems ...

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All JobsEngineer JobsEntry Level Engineer JobsEntry Level Engineer Jobs in Fairfax, VA

Entry Level Engineer information

See Fairfax, VA salary details

$30.7K

$70.9K

$120.6K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Fairfax, VA is $70,899.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,600.00 and $80,200.00 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.
More about Entry Level Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

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For Entry Level Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Engineer jobs in Fairfax, VA are:

What cities near Fairfax, VA are hiring for Entry Level Engineer jobs?

Cities near Fairfax, VA with the most Entry Level Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineer job openings in Fairfax, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,899 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Entry-level Engineer, Structural Engineering

Washington, DC

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Simpson Gumpertz & Hegerexternal

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

We want someone passionate about structural engineering and problem-solving.

Our Structural Engineering division is looking to hire upcoming and early career graduates with a Master's degree in Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering in our Washington, D.C. office.

What You'll Be Doing: 

The Structures Division provides structural engineering services with emphasis on new design, repair, and rehabilitation of constructed works, and investigation and performance evaluation of structures. As an entry-level hire, you will assist with new design, evaluation, investigation, and design of repairs for existing buildings. Essential duties include performing a wide range of structural engineering analysis and design tasks in steel, concrete, masonry and wood structures, assisting senior staff in on-site investigations to document existing conditions and determine root of problems; aiding senior staff during the construction administration phase of projects, and managing the preparation of drawings and specifications. A strong technical education, professional demeanor, and desire to learn are essential to this position.

What You'll Need:

  • MS in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Excellent written, oral, and verbal communication skills required.
  • FE/EIT certification is preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent analytical and judgment capabilities are required.
  • Ability to work effectively independently and in a team environment is required.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines.
  • Familiarity with computer analysis software preferred (e.g., ETABS, SAP, RISA, RAM, SAFE, etc.)
  • Must have a valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.
  • Enthusiasm and passion - consistently maintain high levels of activity and productivity.
  • Communication - conveys information to internal and external clients clearly with excellent writing or oral skills.
  • Problem-solving - capability to solve minor or complex problems using data, logic, judgment, and problem-solving tools.
  • Accountability and responsibility - self-starter with a willingness to interact as a team player and take independent initiative to ensure tasks are completed.
  • Teamwork- work with others toward a shared goal, participating actively, sharing responsibility and rewards and contributing to the capability of the team.
  • Teachable - passionate and willing to continue learning new ideas and concepts.

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