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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Dewberry

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Fairfax, VA office. Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Electrical Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Electrica l Engineer for our Fairfax, VA Headquarters ... mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, construction services, and energy modeling.

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All JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer JobsEntry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$18

$34

$57

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level mechanical engineer in Reston, VA is $34.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.03 and $38.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Mechanical EngineerMechanical Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly internship experienceBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, testing, and project collaboration in engineering teamsCreating detailed drawings and models, often using CAD software, in design departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveDesign firms, manufacturing companies, product development
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Mechanical Engineers focus on applying engineering principles to design, analyze, and test mechanical systems, often working on projects from concept to prototype. Mechanical Designers primarily create detailed CAD drawings and models for manufacturing and assembly. While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, engineers typically engage in broader engineering tasks, whereas designers concentrate on detailed design work.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level mechanical engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level mechanical engineer, you will typically be involved in a variety of projects that support more senior engineers. Your tasks may include creating and revising CAD drawings, assisting with prototype development, conducting basic calculations and simulations, and performing hands-on testing in the lab or on the production floor. You'll also collaborate closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and design. This exposure helps you build foundational technical skills while learning effective teamwork and communication in a professional engineering environment.

What are entry-level mechanical engineering jobs?

Entry-level mechanical engineering jobs typically include roles such as design engineer, manufacturing engineer, or quality engineer, often requiring a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. These positions involve tasks like CAD modeling, testing, and assisting in product development, with common tools including AutoCAD and SolidWorks. They usually offer on-the-job training and may require some familiarity with industry standards and safety protocols.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions typically do not pay $500,000 annually. High-paying engineering roles such as senior engineering managers, director-level positions, or specialized consulting roles in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or technology can reach or exceed this salary level, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes additional certifications or leadership responsibilities.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Familiarity with tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and analytical thinking skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to project needs. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate designs, meeting project deadlines, and integrating smoothly into engineering teams.

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, especially with advanced skills, leadership roles, or working in high-paying industries. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and certifications, and may involve managing large projects or teams.

What Does an Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer Do?

An entry-level mechanical engineer works on product design for a given industry, such as aerospace, automotive, medical, manufacturing, or entertainment. Your job duties as an entry-level mechanical engineer depend on the size of your employer and the scope of the projects your team handles. At a large corporation, your job focuses on a specialized element of the product design. At a small company or startup, your responsibilities encompass all of the engineering elements of a project. Regardless of company size, you need communication and interpersonal skills as a mechanical engineer, because teamwork is essential to the job.

What does an entry level mechanical engineer do?

An entry level mechanical engineer assists in the design, development, testing, and manufacturing of mechanical devices, such as engines, tools, and machines. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to learn industry practices and gain hands-on experience. Their tasks often include using computer-aided design (CAD) software, creating prototypes, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. Entry level engineers also help prepare technical reports and documentation while collaborating with other engineering teams.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 40 is possible. Success depends on relevant education, skills, and experience, such as proficiency with CAD software and understanding of engineering principles. Many engineers transition careers later in life and find opportunities in the field.
More about Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer jobs near you
Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Entry Level Mechanical Engineer

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Dewberry rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Dewberry has an opportunity for an Entry Level Mechanical Engineer to join a growing group of professional engineers in our Fairfax, VA office. 

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a new graduate, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call “Dewberry at Work,” that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.


Projects may include; new multi-building facilities, retrofit projects, laboratory, mission critical facilities, as well as energy conservation studies, facility condition assessments, and due diligence reports addressing operating conditions and construction costs.


  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering required.
  • 0-2 years of experience.
  • Experience in HVAC is preferred.
  • Communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced team environment with multiple deadlines.
  • Ability to coordinate the work of multiple disciplines.
  • Aiblity to prepare mechanical engineering calculations, reports, construction drawings and specifications, project schedules and cost estimates to meet project requirements.
  • Proficiency in CAD, Revit preferred and good working knowledge of MS Word and Excel required. 
  • Valid Driver’s License and clean driving record required.

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. So if you’re excited about this role, but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.

*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry’s background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.

Notice to Third Party Recruiters:  Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.


Entry-Level Class Program

As an entry-level hire, you’ll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience. Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and team building activities led by an advisory team to:

  • Form lasting connections with peers in your class.
  • Gain a better understanding of career growth and meaningful opportunities to align with your professional goals.
  • Expand your knowledge of Dewberry and what we do.

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