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Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Orders Construction

Project Engineer

Christiansburg, VA · On-site

This is an entry level management position, specifically suited to engineering graduates who desire ... Material procurement and delivery coordination * Project safety management * Participation in key ...

Orders Construction

Project Engineer

Christiansburg, VA · On-site

This is an entry level management position, specifically suited to engineering graduates who desire ... Material procurement and delivery coordination * Project safety management * Participation in key ...

Orders Construction

Project Engineer

Christiansburg, VA · On-site

This is an entry level management position, specifically suited to engineering graduates who desire ... Material procurement and delivery coordination * Project safety management * Participation in key ...

MEB

Project Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

... the timely delivery of materials, maintaining schedules and budgets to ensure delivery of ... Whether you are an entry-level engineer eager to start your career or a seasoned professional ...

MEB

Project Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

... the timely delivery of materials, maintaining schedules and budgets to ensure delivery of ... Whether you are an entry-level engineer eager to start your career or a seasoned professional ...

U.S. Army

Technical Engineer (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

If so, serving as Technical Engineer in the U.S. Army could be the right career choice for you ... * Entry level (no experience) * Perform field and laboratory tests on construction materials ...

County of Roanoke Virginia

Civil Engineer I

Roanoke, VA

$68K - $89K/yr

... materials Prepares cost estimates on engineering projects Assists in maintaining liaison with ... This is an entry level position. Certifications/ Licenses Required: An Engineer-in-Training (EIT ...

Roanoke County, VA

Civil Engineer I

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$68K - $89K/yr

... related materials * Prepares cost estimates on engineering projects * Assists in maintaining ... This is an entry level position. Certifications/ Licenses Required: * An Engineer-in-Training (EIT ...

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All JobsEntry Level Material Engineer JobsEntry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Entry Level Material Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$27.3K

$60.6K

$94.9K

How much do entry level material engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level material engineer in Virginia is $60,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,200.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level material engineer do?

An entry level material engineer assists in developing, testing, and evaluating materials used in manufacturing and product design. Their responsibilities often include analyzing material properties, conducting experiments in labs, preparing technical reports, and supporting senior engineers on various projects. They may also help troubleshoot material failures and recommend improvements. This role provides foundational experience in materials science and engineering principles, often working under supervision while gaining practical skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, often through senior roles, bonuses, or stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes professional certifications or advanced degrees.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level material engineers can start at age 40 or later, as the field values skills, education, and experience over age. Many engineers successfully transition careers or pursue additional training, certifications, or degrees to enter the profession at any age. Age is generally not a barrier if the candidate has relevant knowledge and a strong interest in materials science and engineering principles.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Material Engineer, you need a solid background in materials science or engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with materials characterization tools (such as SEM, XRD), CAD software, and common lab testing protocols is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with colleagues and solve complex problems. These competencies ensure you can contribute to developing and improving materials that meet technical and project requirements.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Most entry-level material engineers do not earn $500,000 annually. High salaries in engineering typically occur at senior levels, in executive roles, or within specialized fields such as petroleum or aerospace engineering, often requiring extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry-level material engineer in their first year?

As an entry-level material engineer, you will often work on tasks like conducting materials testing, analyzing data, assisting with the development of prototypes, and preparing technical documentation. You'll likely collaborate closely with senior engineers, quality control teams, and manufacturing staff to support ongoing projects. It's common to be involved in troubleshooting material-related issues and participating in team meetings to discuss project progress and challenges. This role provides a solid foundation for learning industry standards and gaining hands-on experience with different materials and processes.

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

AspectEntry Level Material EngineerEntry Level Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing labs
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, electronics, manufacturingAutomotive, aerospace, energy, manufacturing
Common Search IntentEntry Level Material Engineer roles, job requirements, career pathEntry Level Mechanical Engineer roles, job duties, career options

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in their respective fields and involve working in manufacturing or R&D environments. While Material Engineers focus on developing and testing materials, Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and interests.

Is there a demand for material engineers?

Material engineers are in demand across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing due to ongoing innovations in materials and technology. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies seek to develop stronger, lighter, and more sustainable materials, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and materials testing. Entry-level positions are available for those with relevant education and certifications in materials science or engineering.
Entry Level Material Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Material Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,563 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Staff Geotechnical/CMT Engineer (Entry Level) - Chantilly, VA

Hillis-Carnes

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

WHO IS HILLIS-CARNES?
Hillis-Carnes Engineering Associates (HCEA) is a multi-disciplined ENR Top 500 engineering firm with 20 offices in the mid-Atlantic and Florida. We have demonstrated a history of success for the past 35 years. We are 100% employee-owned ESOP, and our history of success can be attributed to our motivational employee owners. We believe in fostering teamwork, rewarding ambition, and providing opportunities for professional advancement.
At HCEA, we can contribute our continuing success to multiple facets, but above all we are successful because of our knowledgeable, ambitious, and reliable employees who make every day count.
As a Staff Engineer in our Chantilly office, you will work collaboratively with our knowledgeable geotechnical and construction materials testing/inspections departments and assist with a wide variety of projects for public and private sector clients. Some duties may include but not limited to; test boring/test pit observations, other geotechnical field tests, soil classification, laboratory analysis, preparation of geotechnical reports/calculation, management of field staff, review of daily CMT field reports, occasional performance of on-site construction materials testing services, etc.
Requirements
• BS and/or MS in Civil Engineering or closely related field.
• This is an entry level position and thus no prior professional work experience required.
• A valid driver's license/ satisfactory driving record accompanied with a reliable vehicle.
• Ability to meet pre-employment requirements.
• The ability to (occasionally) work nights, weekends, and travel overnight.
• To move up to 60-80 pounds (soil and concrete samples, nuclear gauges, etc).
• Ability to read engineering and construction plans/specifications.
Preferred Qualifications
• Engineer in Training (EIT) license.
We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer and offer an appealing benefits package. A few of these perks include: 100% Employer-Paid Benefits (Long-Term Disability, Basic Life & Employee Assistance Program), Health (W/ Health Savings Account Option), Disability, 401k w/ Company Match, Generous Compensation for Employee-Referrals, Tuition Reimbursement and many more!
For the past several years, Engineering News-Record named Hillis-Carnes to its ranking of Top 500 Design Firms in the nation for its continued rapid growth.
Need another reason to join in on the success? We offer an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in which employees are given shares in the company, held in an outside trust. The more successful the company is, the more valuable the shares become.
Want to grow with us? Apply now!
Equal Opportunity Employer

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