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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Field Application Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site +1

$54K - $81K/yr

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ... Work in dynamic environments-manufacturing floors, labs, and more-with occasional lifting (up to 60 ...

A third-generation company with nearly 1,500 associates across six manufacturing facilities in ... Non-Plant Exempt POSITION PURPOSE The Design Engineer is an entry-level position where associates ...

A third-generation company with nearly 1,500 associates across six manufacturing facilities in ... Non-Plant Exempt POSITION PURPOSE The Design Engineer is an entry-level position where associates ...

A third-generation company with nearly 1,500 associates across six manufacturing facilities in ... Non-Plant Exempt POSITION PURPOSE The Design Engineer is an entry-level position where associates ...

A third-generation company with nearly 1,500 associates across six manufacturing facilities in ... Non-Plant Exempt POSITION PURPOSE The Design Engineer is an entry-level position where associates ...

A third-generation company with nearly 1,500 associates across six manufacturing facilities in ... Non-Plant Exempt POSITION PURPOSE The Design Engineer is an entry-level position where associates ...

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This is an entry level position. You will qualify as long as you are familiar and good with hand ... placing engineers, IT professionals, manufacturing personnel, and administrative/professional ...

The Process Engineer is an entry level, onsite position based in a manufacturing facility, and part of the IWS Line Trio / Line Centric team. The Process Engineer is responsible for the equipment ...

The Process Engineer is an entry level, onsite position based in a manufacturing facility, and part of the IWS Line Trio / Line Centric team. The Process Engineer is responsible for the equipment ...

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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/ Part Finishing Intern

Manufacturing/ Part Finishing Intern

Obsidian Solutions Group

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Part-time, Internship

Posted yesterday


Job description

Manufacturing/ Part Finishing Intern
Primary Work Location: On-site position based in Fredericksburg, VA
Must be a U.S. Citizen: Yes
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain an active security clearance is not required for this internship
Job Summary
Obsidian Solutions Group is seeking a hands-on, dependable Manufacturing/ Part Finishing Intern to support the finishing department during the summer. This is an entry level internship intended for a recent high school graduate, trade school student, technical student, or early career candidate interested in manufacturing, prototyping, additive manufacturing, and defense-related production work.
The Finishing Intern will assist with sanding, media blasting, paint preparation, part cleaning, masking, facility cleaning, and general production support. This role is well suited for someone who is reliable, willing to learn, comfortable working with their hands, and interested in gaining real shop-floor experience in a professional manufacturing environment.
This position will include routine and repetitive production tasks, but it also provides direct exposure to additive manufacturing, urethane casting, finishing, painting, and prototype part production supporting commercial and government customers.
Requirements
Finishing and Surface Preparation
  • Sand, deburr, clean, and prepare prototype and production parts for finishing operations.
  • Assist with media blasting and other surface preparation processes.
  • Prepare parts for paint, coating, or additional finishing steps.
  • Mask, clean, and organize parts according to production instructions.
  • Support finishing team members with part handling, staging, and workflow movement.

Paint Preparation and Production Support
  • Assist with paint preparation tasks under supervision.
  • Help clean and prepare parts before entering the paint process.
  • Maintain organized staging areas for parts awaiting finishing, paint, inspection, or shipment.
  • Follow instructions from the Production Manager, Lead Finisher, and finishing department personnel.

Facility and Shop Support
  • Clean and maintain finishing work areas, benches, tools, and shared production spaces.
  • Assist with general facility cleaning and organization as needed.
  • Help maintain a safe, orderly, and efficient shop environment.
  • Support basic 5S and continuous improvement efforts within the production area.

Safety and Quality
  • Follow all safety instructions, PPE requirements, and shop procedures.
  • Work safely around tools, sanding dust, media blasting equipment, paints, solvents, and production materials.
  • Maintain attention to detail when preparing customer parts.
  • Communicate issues, defects, damaged parts, or unclear instructions to a supervisor.

Requirements
  • High school diploma, GED, or expected graduation prior to the start of the internship.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be willing to complete a background check and drug screening if required.
  • Interest in hands on work, manufacturing, trades, engineering, prototyping, or technical production.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
  • Willingness to perform physical, repetitive, and detail-oriented work.
  • Ability to work safely in a shop and production environment.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn from experienced production staff.

Desired
  • Experience with sanding, painting, model making, woodworking, automotive work, robotics, shop class, 3D printing, or other hands-on hobbies.
  • Familiarity with basic hand tools.
  • Interest in manufacturing, defense technology, additive manufacturing, prototyping, or skilled trades.
  • Prior part-time work, volunteer work, shop experience, or technical coursework.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to perform sanding, cleaning, masking, and repetitive hand tasks.
  • Ability to lift and carry parts, materials, or shop supplies as needed.
  • Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, dust mask, or respirator when required.
  • Work is performed primarily in a manufacturing, finishing, and production shop environment.

Travel Requirements
  • N/A

Company Description
Obsidian Solutions Group LLC (OSG) is a fast-growing professional services firm based in Fredericksburg, VA. We create value for our customers by delivering technology-enabled & mission-oriented technical solutions that solve complex problems, protecting people, information, and assets. Our core capabilities are in providing Enterprise IT, Intelligence Analysis, Production & Development and Knowledge-Based Professional Services Solutions that enable the customer's mission. Obsidian Solutions Group LLC is a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business.
A career at Obsidian Solutions Group means you are able to put your expertise, credentials, and talents to great use working with customers in the DOD and Intelligence Community, while enjoying the excitement of working in a fast-growing organization committed to making a difference for our customers and in our community. Contribute independently and collaboratively alongside our amazing team of doers and thinkers. Obsidian Solutions Group is small enough to offer a family atmosphere yet large enough to deliver a highly competitive compensation package. We hire and retain the best in the industry, offering exceptional benefits that protect the well-being of our employees, their spouses and domestic partners, and their families.
Our corporate philosophy is centered on hiring and retaining employees with the requisite skills, professional experience, personal commitment, and ethical standards necessary to foster a culture of operational excellence necessary to surpass our customer's expectations.
Disclaimer
The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Obsidian Solutions Group is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, protected veteran status, and any other non-merit factor, or any other characteristic protected by law.