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Entry Level Mep Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm ... Coordinate and communicate progress with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) teams * Perform ...

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Entry Level Mep Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$34K

$78.6K

$133.7K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level mep engineer in Washington, DC is $78,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level MEP engineer?

Entry level MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineers are professionals who have recently graduated or have limited work experience and are starting their careers in the building services industry. They assist in designing, planning, and managing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for buildings under the supervision of senior engineers. Typical tasks include drafting plans, performing calculations, assisting with project documentation, and coordinating with other disciplines to ensure project requirements are met. Entry level MEP engineers often work towards gaining practical experience, technical skills, and professional licensure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level MEP engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level MEP Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields, along with foundational knowledge in building systems design. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, and other building information modeling (BIM) software, as well as relevant codes and standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and teamwork abilities help you excel in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and handling project challenges. These skills ensure efficient, compliant, and innovative design solutions that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level MEP engineers when transitioning from academic studies to professional projects?

Entry level MEP engineers often find the shift from academic settings to real-world projects challenging due to the complexity of coordinating with multiple disciplines such as architecture, structural, and construction teams. Adapting to fast-paced project schedules, learning to use industry-standard software, and understanding building codes and local regulations are typical hurdles. However, these challenges are excellent learning opportunities, as most teams provide mentorship and on-the-job training to help new engineers grow their technical and communication skills, setting a strong foundation for career advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Mep Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Mep EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Civil, or Electrical Engineering; internshipsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; internships
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, building systems, consulting firmsDesign offices, manufacturing, product development
Employer & Industry UsageArchitectural, engineering consulting, constructionManufacturing, product design, automotive

While both roles require a mechanical engineering background, Entry Level Mep Engineers focus on building systems like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical within construction projects. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily work on designing mechanical components and systems for products or machinery. The roles differ in work environment and industry focus, but both require foundational engineering skills and internships or entry-level experience.

How much does an entry level MEP engineer make?

An entry-level MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) engineer typically earns between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry demand. Starting salaries may increase with relevant certifications and experience in design software like AutoCAD or Revit.

How to get into entry level MEP engineering?

To start as an entry-level MEP engineer, obtain a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, and develop knowledge of building systems and design software like AutoCAD or Revit. Internships or cooperative education programs provide practical experience, and obtaining relevant certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can improve job prospects.

Is there a shortage of entry level MEP engineers?

There is generally a strong demand for entry-level MEP engineers due to ongoing infrastructure development and the need for skilled professionals in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Job opportunities are often available in engineering firms, construction companies, and consulting agencies, especially for those with relevant certifications and proficiency in design software like AutoCAD or Revit.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mep Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Mep Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Mep Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,599 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer-in-Training (EIT) - New Graduate

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

Wiley|Wilson
Architectural Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$78K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to turn your Mechanical Engineering degree into real-world design experience? Wiley|Wilson, a 100% employee-owned architecture and engineering firm, is looking for a new graduate to join our Mechanical Engineering team in our Alexandria, VA office.
As a Mechanical Engineer-in-Training (EIT), you'll work alongside experienced engineers designing HVAC, plumbing, and other mechanical systems for a diverse range of projects and clients. You'll gain hands-on experience across multiple phases of design while building the technical foundation and experience needed to pursue your Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Working under the guidance of licensed Professional Engineers, you'll contribute to real projects from the start. Your work will include developing mechanical plans and designs, performing engineering calculations, applying relevant codes and standards, and preparing and reviewing technical documentation. You'll also assist with field investigations and testing, gaining firsthand experience with how mechanical systems are installed and function in the built environment.
Because our projects bring multiple design disciplines together, you'll collaborate with architects and civil, structural, electrical, and other engineering professionals as you learn how mechanical systems fit into the complete building design.
This is an opportunity to begin your career in an environment where you can learn from experienced professionals, take on increasing responsibility as your skills develop, and build a strong foundation for long-term growth as a Mechanical Engineer.
What we offer:
At Wiley|Wilson, our employees are also owners. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), you'll have a direct stake in the success of the company while building your own career.
We offer a competitive salary, work-from-home flexibility, and a generous benefits package that includes multiple group health insurance options, a 401(k) plan with up to 6% matching, 24 days of paid time off (PTO), five paid holidays per year, 80 hours of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, tuition reimbursement, and additional benefits and perks.
We support flexibility in how our employees work and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities in roles that require travel.
What we're looking for:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam passed by the start date
  • Revit experience preferred
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a solid work ethic and eagerness to learn, and the interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.
  • Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States and able to obtain a security clearance

About us:
Wiley|Wilson is a full-service architecture and engineering firm creating innovative and functional design solutions for government, institutional, and private-sector clients around the world. Our diverse mix of projects, generous benefits, and focus on professional growth provide a unique opportunity to build your career alongside experienced professionals across multiple engineering and design disciplines.
As a 100-percent employee-owned company, our 190+ employees share a stake in our success through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Our ownership model, combined with a strong focus on service, professional development, and employee engagement, creates a distinct company culture. Wiley|Wilson has offices in Alexandria, Lynchburg, and Richmond, VA; Raleigh, NC; and Atlanta, GA.
Other:
  • EOE/AAP, Disability/Covered Veteran, Drug Free Workplace
  • A615 Mechanical Engineer-In-Training (EIT)
  • Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical EIT, Engineer-in-Training, EIT, Entry-Level Engineer, Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer, New Graduate, Recent Graduate, HVAC, HVAC Design, Plumbing, Plumbing Design, Mechanical Systems, Building Systems, MEP, Revit, Engineering Design, Building Design, Government Projects, Federal Projects, PE Track, Professional Engineer, ESOP, Employee-Owned, Hybrid, Work From Home, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington DC, DMV, Virginia