Entry Level Mechanical Engineering Jobs in Reston, VA

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary:

The Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer will work in a fast-paced multi-discipline team environment. Our Mechanical Engineers are responsible for designing building HVAC and producing construction documentation Residential, Higher Education, Commercial, Science and Technology, and Federal Facilities. This position is offered in a hybrid work environment, with a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Read and understand construction documents including drawings, floor plans, specifications, and equipment details.
• Develop HVAC system designs of a given project based on scope of work and/or client RFPs while supporting project development from concept design through construction.
• Provide engineering design, evaluation, and planning of mechanical systems for a variety of market types.
• Perform heating and cooling load calculations and energy analysis with software such as Trace 700 or similar programs.
• Conduct building surveys and documentation of existing HVAC systems and site conditions.
• Provide construction support through reviewing equipment submittals, responding to contractor questions, and issuing reviews and reports.
• Write and edit project specifications, narratives, reports, and other technical documentation.
• Assist in procuring new work; including developing client relationships and participating in project interviews when required.
• Perform drawing production and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for mechanical systems.
• Complete engineering calculations, equipment sizing and selection, system layout, and interdisciplinary coordination.
• Apply knowledge of building codes and industry standards in the development of mechanical system designs.
• Attend internal and external meetings to obtain design input information.
• Communicate effectively in person and in writing with project teams, clients, and contractors to ensure timely sharing of project information.
• Work independently while collaborating with internal teams and utilizing available resources to develop effective engineering solutions.
• Support project teams in delivering work products that meet project requirements and quality expectations and assist in resolving project issues.
• Perform project billable work and engineering responsibilities consistent with expected utilization goals while contributing to successful project delivery.
• Foster an environment where new ideas are discussed and developed collaboratively to create practical solutions to client challenges.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
• EIT Certification preferred but not required with a willingness to obtain in 1-2 years.
• You have design experience in the MEP industry.
• You are knowledgeable in the design of HVAC systems.
• You have 0 - 2 years of experience in engineering and design.
• Should have working knowledge of the ASHRAE, ASME, NFPA, and NEC; with a preference for knowledge of IBC, IMC, and IPC requirements.

Skills/Abilities:

• Efficient in MS Office, Outlook, and engineering calculation software
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively in the face of shifting projects and deadlines
• Good communication skills, combined with organizational skills, the ability to plan, balance and prioritize work
• Ability to operate Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD, RevitTMand BIM360 software

Location: Bethesda, MD

Travel: Limited

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $95,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.