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Entry Level Material Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Garney Construction

Project Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

Garney Construction

Project Engineer

Fairfax, VA

... purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

Garney Construction

Project Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

Garney Construction

Field Engineer

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

Other duties may include handling important documents and ensuring that the correct materials are ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

Garney Construction

Field Engineer

Suffolk, VA

$75K/yr

Other duties may include handling important documents and ensuring that the correct materials are ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

Integer

Engineer I, Manufacturing*

Salem, VA

$70K - $91K/yr

As an entry level engineer, you will ensure that Integer's internal and external customer ... materials for failure analysis and potential improvements. * You will participate in projects that ...

Garney Construction

Project Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

... purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners ... This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an ...

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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.
Project Engineer

Project Engineer

Garney Construction

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

GARNEY CONSTRUCTION

A Project Engineer position is available at Garney. This position will act as the backbone of the project management team and keep the job on track. Great attention to detail and the ability to organize and plan will ensure success in this position.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

You will assist the project management team with tasks such as negotiating and purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners, architects, and engineers.

Responsibilities:

  • Create Submittals and RFI's
  • Coordinate projects from start to finish
    • Assist with estimating
    • Project setup & closeout
    • support field operations
    • maintain detailed job costs
  • Work professionally with owners and engineers
  • Assist in scheduling projects and crews
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate will have a degree in civil engineering, construction management, or another related field and is willing to travel and work the days and hours required to ensure the project's success. This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an industry leader.

LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off
  • 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
CONTACT US

If you are interested in the Project Engineer position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visit careers.garney.com

If you have questions or would like more information, please email recruiter@garney.com and include the job location and requisition ID (listed below the job title at the top of the page) to ensure a prompt response. Please note that email inquiries are not a substitute for submitting an application. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates. 

Garney Construction and its subsidiaries committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Garney Construction is a background screening, drug-free workplace.

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