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Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer TS

Centreville, VA ยท On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Parsons is seeking an entry-level engineer with a Top Secret clearance to join our agile, tight-knit development team. In this role, you'll work directly with experts in Computer Network Defense (CND ...

Software Engineer TS

Centreville, VA ยท On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Parsons is seeking an entry-level engineer with a Top Secret clearance to join our agile, tight-knit development team. In this role, you'll work directly with experts in Computer Network Defense (CND ...

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Electrica l Engineer for our Fairfax, VA Headquarters. Duties will include building information modeling (BIM), design, drawing production, specification ...

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Electrica l Engineer for our Fairfax, VA Headquarters. Duties will include building information modeling (BIM), design, drawing production, specification ...

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Electrica l Engineer for our Fairfax, VA Headquarters. Duties will include building information modeling (BIM), design, drawing production, specification ...

Software Engineer TS

Centreville, VA ยท On-site

$63K - $111K/yr

Parsons is seeking an entry-level engineer with a Top Secret clearance to join our agile, tight-knit development team. In this role, you'll work directly with experts in Computer Network Defense (CND ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$34K

$78.6K

$133.7K

How much do entry level engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineer in Washington, DC is $78,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $89,000.00 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level 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 $78,599 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT) - New Graduate

Wiley|Wilson

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to turn your Civil Engineering degree into real-world design experience? Wiley|Wilson, a 100% employee-owned architecture and engineering firm, is looking for a new graduate to join our Civil Engineering team in our Alexandria, VA office.
As a Civil Engineer-in-Training (EIT), you'll work alongside experienced engineers on site design and stormwater management projects for Local, Federal, and State Government clients. You'll gain hands-on experience across multiple phases of design while building the technical foundation and experience needed to pursue your Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Working under the guidance of licensed Professional Engineers, you'll contribute to real projects from the start. Your work will include preparing calculations, reports, and design drawings; assisting with site design and stormwater management; participating in field investigations; and performing research related to project design. You'll also assist with quantity take-offs and cost estimates while collaborating with engineers and other design professionals across multiple disciplines.
This is an opportunity to begin your career in an environment where you can learn from experienced professionals, take on increasing responsibility as your skills develop, and build a strong foundation for long-term growth as a Civil Engineer.
What we offer:
At Wiley|Wilson, our employees are also owners. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), you'll have a direct stake in the success of the company while building your own career.
We offer a competitive salary, work-from-home flexibility, and a generous benefits package that includes multiple group health insurance options, a 401(k) plan with up to 6% matching, 24 days of paid time off (PTO), five paid holidays per year, 80 hours of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, tuition reimbursement, and additional benefits and perks.
We support flexibility in how our employees work and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities in roles that require travel.
What we're looking for:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam passed by the start date
  • Civil 3D experience preferred
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a solid work ethic and eagerness to learn, and the interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.
  • Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States and be able to obtain a security clearance

About us:
Wiley|Wilson is a full-service architecture and engineering firm creating innovative and functional design solutions for government, institutional, and private-sector clients around the world. Our , , and focus on professional growth provide a unique opportunity to build your career alongside experienced professionals across multiple engineering and design disciplines.
As a 100-percent company, our 180+ employees share a stake in our success through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Our ownership model, combined with a strong focus on service, professional development, and employee engagement, creates a . Wiley|Wilson has in Alexandria, Lynchburg, and Richmond, VA; Raleigh, NC; and Atlanta, GA.
Other:
  • EOE/AAP/Disability/Covered Veteran, Drug Free Workplace
  • A614 Civil Engineer-In-Training (EIT)
  • Civil Engineering, Civil Engineer, Civil EIT, Engineer-in-Training, EIT, Entry-Level Engineer, Entry-Level Civil Engineer, New Graduate, Recent Graduate, Site Design, Stormwater Management, Stormwater, Civil 3D, Land Development, Grading, Drainage, Utilities, Engineering Design, Government Projects, Federal Projects, PE Track, Professional Engineer, ESOP, Employee-Owned, Hybrid, Work From Home, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington DC, DMV, Virginia