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Entry Level Product Development Jobs in Virginia

Production Worker, Entry Level

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

General Information Job ID ATR62714 Posting Job Title Production Worker, Entry Level Locations VA ... Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities. A career with a global ...

Production Worker, Entry Level

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

General Information Job ID ATR62714 Posting Job Title Production Worker, Entry Level Locations VA ... Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities. A career with a global ...

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Entry Level Product Development information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$24

$41

How much do entry level product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level product development in Virginia is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level product development job?

An entry level product development job involves assisting in the design, creation, and improvement of new products or features under the supervision of more experienced team members. Responsibilities often include conducting market research, creating prototypes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and gathering user feedback. This role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the field who are looking to gain experience in bringing ideas to market. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are important for success in entry level product development positions.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level product development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in product development often face challenges such as balancing multiple project priorities, quickly adapting to changing product requirements, and effectively communicating ideas within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized by using project management tools, proactively seek feedback from more experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to improve communication skills. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning from setbacks will also help new product developers build confidence and advance in their roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level product development professional, and why are they important?

To excel in Entry Level Product Development, you need a background in product design, basic market research, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or design. Familiarity with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, and project management platforms (e.g., Jira or Trello) is commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These competencies ensure the successful creation, refinement, and launch of products that meet market needs and organizational goals.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development vs Entry Level Product Design?

AspectEntry Level Product DevelopmentEntry Level Product Design
Primary FocusCreating, testing, and refining products from concept to productionDesigning the visual and functional aspects of products
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, project managementSketching, CAD, user experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, collaborative teams, software tools
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDesign software certifications, portfolio

Entry Level Product Development and Entry Level Product Design share overlapping skills like creativity and teamwork but differ mainly in focus. Product development emphasizes engineering and manufacturing processes, while product design centers on aesthetics and user experience. Both roles are essential in bringing a product from concept to market, often working closely together in the product lifecycle.

What degree do you need to work in entry level product development?

Entry level product development roles typically require a bachelor's degree in fields such as engineering, design, business, or related areas. Relevant skills include knowledge of product lifecycle, prototyping tools, and teamwork, with some positions valuing internships or certifications in project management or CAD software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Product Development jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Product Development jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Product Development jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,409 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Production Worker, Entry Level

Smurfit Westrock

Hopewell, VA • On-site

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago


Smurfit Westrock rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 278 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR62714
Posting Job Title
Production Worker, Entry Level
Locations
VA Hopewell
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
30-Jul-2026
Relocation Support
No
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
The Opportunity:
Smurfit Westrock is searching for qualified entry level Production Workers to join our team in Hopewell, VA. This is an excellent opportunity for qualified individuals interested in joining a safety conscious team environment with advancement through ability and seniority. Smurfit Westrock offers an excellent benefits package after one month of employment and competitive starting hourly pay rate with progressive increases.
How You Will Impact Smurfit Westrock:
Safely perform a wide range of tasks supporting the Hopewell, VA Paper Mill manufacturing process assisting senior operators with a wide range of duties from opening/closing valves, unloading coal cars to general department cleanup.
The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to working safely, a demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and a strong desire to learn manufacturing processes and operate machinery.
What You Need to Succeed:
High School Diploma or G.E.D. required.
Strong focus on safety and quality.
Availability to work overtime and 12-hour rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Ability to withstand demanding physical labor and tough environmental conditions.
Ability to lift, push, pull, reach, bend, walk, stand, squat, kneel, and climb stairs throughout a shift.
The desire for a career with the opportunity for training and advancement.
What we offer:
Excellent wages and a strong benefits package.
Corporate culture based on Integrity, Respect, Accountability, and Excellence.
Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety, and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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