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Entry Level Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

PEG

Junior Residential Mechanical Designer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$64K - $84K/yr

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental ... This is an entry-level position that focuses on furthering professional career development through ...

PEG LLC

Junior Residential Mechanical Designer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$50K/yr

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental ... This is an entry-level position that focuses on furthering professional career development through ...

MSCCN

Junior Residential Mechanical Designer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

PEG, LLC is in its twenty-eighth year being a diverse energy efficiency, engineering, environmental ... This is an entry-level position that focuses on furthering professional career development through ...

CRB

HVAC Design Engineer

Rockville, MD

The Mechanical Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of HVAC and mechanical utilities for ... This individual may also delegate basic and fundamental tasks to entry-level engineers and ...

CRB

HVAC Design Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer focuses on the design and engineering of HVAC and mechanical utilities for ... This individual may also delegate basic and fundamental tasks to entry-level engineers and ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineer 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 Jul 13, 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.

Is 32 too old to become an engineer?

Entry level mechanical engineering positions are open to individuals of various ages, and starting a career at 32 is common. Many engineers begin their careers after gaining relevant education, certifications, or skills, regardless of age, and employers value experience and knowledge. Age should not be a barrier to pursuing a mechanical engineering role if you have the necessary qualifications and skills.

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 basic knowledge of engineering principles and safety standards.

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 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.

How to get a mechanical engineering job with no experience?

Entry-level mechanical engineering positions often require relevant internships, co-op experience, or project work to demonstrate skills. Gaining proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD, and obtaining certifications like Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) can improve chances. Networking with professionals and applying to internships or trainee programs also help build experience for entry-level roles.

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.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Entry-level mechanical engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, with higher salaries possible in specialized fields, management roles, or in certain industries like aerospace or oil and gas. Reaching a $200,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced skills, certifications, or leadership positions.
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
Infographic showing various Entry Level Mechanical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,842 per year, or $34.5 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer - Energy Solutions - CMTA

Mechanical Engineer - Energy Solutions - CMTA

legence

Fairfax, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
CMTA, a Legence company, is looking for an entry-level mechanical engineer to help in our Energy Solutions office in Louisville, KY and our Fairfax, VA office. The Energy Solutions division of CMTA is the fastest growing division of our large and growing company.  The successful candidate is typically a self-motivated individual that thrives on helping clients and has the technical background to be involved and lead all phases of our work.  Although this position is for the performance contracting division of our company, we have found that engineers with strong backgrounds in HVAC design and commissioning can easily make the transition to become an energy engineer within our Energy Solutions group.
 
The entry-level engineer works closely with the project manager to assist and support them.  Below are some of the duties that this position includes:
  • Conduct building and system audits
  • Conduct energy analysis and savings calculations
  • Write reports on various aspects of the project
  • Attend meeting with the Project Manager and the clients
  • Other duties as assigned
Required Experience:
  • Minimum 0-3 years of experience with an Energy Services company OR a consulting engineering/commissioning firm is preferred
Desired Skills:
  • Management
  • Construction
  • Engineering Design
  • Energy
  • HVAC Design
  • Engineering
  • Auditing
  • Commissioning
  • Consulting
  • Mechanical Engineering
Level of Education:

  • Must have undergrad degree in engineering from ABET accredited university

  • Minimum GPA of 3.39
We are unable to provide immigration sponsorship for this position
 
#LI-OS1 #LI-Onsite

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