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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Understanding of Process or Manufacturing Systems * Co-op Experience * Electrical or Process Knowledge * Technologies Used: * DCS, PLCs, Rockwell, Siemens, Emerson, Schneider, Inductive, Aveva

Understanding of Process or Manufacturing Systems * Co-op Experience * Electrical or Process Knowledge * Technologies Used: * DCS, PLCs, Rockwell, Siemens, Emerson, Schneider, Inductive, Aveva

Understanding of Process or Manufacturing Systems * Co-op Experience * Electrical or Process Knowledge * Technologies Used: * DCS, PLCs, Rockwell, Siemens, Emerson, Schneider, Inductive, Aveva

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer information

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$14

$31

$50

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level manufacturing engineer in Virginia is $31.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $34.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Manufacturing EngineerManufacturing Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldTechnical diploma or associate degree
Work EnvironmentDesign, process improvement, and project planning in manufacturing settingsOperating machinery, troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, engineering firms, production plantsFactories, production lines, manufacturing facilities

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineers focus on designing processes, improving efficiency, and supporting production planning, often requiring an engineering degree. Manufacturing Technicians handle equipment operation and maintenance, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What Do Entry-Level Manufacturing Engineers Do?

An entry-level manufacturing engineer works to develop and improve the production process for manufacturing goods. Your duties include designing, creating, and testing strategies for production. As a member of an engineering team, you may have to decide which procedure improvement is best for streamlining the production process. You may also work on equipment design and placement, and your responsibilities may include taking steps to improve energy efficiency. As an entry-level engineer, you likely work as part of a team headed by a lead engineer or manager.

What does an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer do?

An Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing processes within a production facility. They work closely with senior engineers and production teams to improve efficiency, quality, and safety in manufacturing operations. Typical tasks may include analyzing workflow, troubleshooting equipment issues, implementing process improvements, and supporting new product introductions. This role often involves hands-on problem solving and the use of engineering principles to ensure smooth and cost-effective manufacturing. Entry level engineers are also expected to learn company-specific processes and industry regulations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in engineering (usually mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing), strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and foundational knowledge of manufacturing processes. Familiarity with CAD software, ERP systems, and process improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is highly valued. Effective communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and identifying process improvements. These skills and qualities are important because they enable engineers to optimize production efficiency, ensure product quality, and support continuous improvement in manufacturing environments.

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

Entry level manufacturing engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced production environments, learning to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly, and understanding complex manufacturing processes. Balancing hands-on problem solving with documentation and process improvement tasks can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and are typically supported by mentorship from senior engineers and collaboration with cross-functional teams. As you gain experience, you'll become more confident in identifying inefficiencies and proposing solutions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in VA? For Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,571 per year, or $31 per hour.
Manufacturing Engineer

$74K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 188 rated software companies


Job description

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering or Mathematics field.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS: Department of Defense Secret security clearance is preferred at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.


Developing mission-critical systems that help keep people safe is what we do. At General Dynamics Mission Systems, you’ll be part of the team that helps heroes make a true impact. The work we do is important. The challenges we face are career-defining. The opportunity we can offer is one-of-a-kind.
We apply advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, AR/VR, Cloud Native and Quantum Physics to solve our customers’ missions in cyber, RF, undersea, interstellar space and everything in between.
We will rely on your knowledge and skills to develop, implement and maintain methods, operation sequence and processes in the manufacturing or fabrication of parts, components, sub-assemblies and final assemblies. In this entry-level position, the Manufacturing Engineer will develop strong communications with internal teams to estimate manufacturing costs, determine time standards and make recommendations for tooling and process requirements of new or existing product lines. At GDMS, we continually seek ways to develop and improve manufacturing methods, utilizing our team’s knowledge of product design, materials and parts, fabrication processes, tooling and production equipment capabilities, assembly methods, and quality control standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop manufacturing engineering plans and strategies for specific products and processes
  • Assist product engineering with design for manufacturability and design to cost
  • Develop floor layouts to optimize process flow
  • Document procedures, process qualifications, work instructions, shop aids, and routings
  • Define and document equipment calibration requirements
  • Install manufacturing process systems and conduct production qualification, feasibility studies, and testing on new and modified designs
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Design Engineering, Program Management, and Quality Assurance
  • Complete assigned engineering projects within budgetary and scheduling guidelines
  • Support prototype fabrication and design testing as needed

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Clear understanding of manufacturing processes, fabrication methods, and technical standards
  • Clear proficiency in lean manufacturing techniques and Six Sigma methodology
  • Clear knowledge of mechanical engineering concepts, principles, and theories
  • Some knowledge with solid modeling CAD tools to create mechanical models and accompanying drawings
  • Educational level knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools and their application
  • Clear problem-solving, analytical, creative, and innovative skills
  • Clear written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams
  • Clear knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and proficiency in generating technical presentations
  • Identifies opportunities to apply AI for continuous improvement and innovation

This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
USD $74,050.40 - USD $82,149.60 /Yr.

General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!


Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans


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