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Entry Level Research And Development Jobs in Virginia

ASSYST, Inc.

Business Development Associate

Sterling, VA

$44K - $60K/yr

This entry-level role is designed for a motivated professional eager to build a career in public ... Pipeline Development Support: Assist in identifying and researching new opportunities for task ...

ASSYST, Inc.

Business Development Associate

Sterling, VA · On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

This entry-level role is designed for a motivated professional eager to build a career in public ... Pipeline Development Support: Assist in identifying and researching new opportunities for task ...

Battelle

Junior Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$65K - $93K/yr

Battelle's Critical Infrastructure group is seeking an entry-level test engineer to support the research, development, test, and evaluation of security systems and technology for the Department of ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Glen Allen, VA

$78K - $81K/yr

Individual may also conduct permitting and code research, write specifications, and prepare and ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

ROCS

Business Development Associate

Reston, VA

$60K/yr

This is a perfect entry-level role for someone who enjoys connecting with people, is eager to learn ... Research prospective companies and decision-makers using industry tools and platforms * Shadow ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Site/civil development including grading design, roadway design, storm water management systems ... May also conduct code research, write specifications, and obtain permitting Required Skills ...

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Entry Level Research And Development information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$100.9K

$163.6K

How much do entry level research and development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research and development in Virginia is $100,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level research and development?

An Entry Level Research and Development (R&D) job involves assisting in the creation and improvement of products, processes, or technologies. Employees in this role often conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and collaborate with senior researchers or engineers. They may work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, technology, manufacturing, or consumer goods. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are essential for success in this position.

What does an entry level research and development do?

A typical day in an Entry Level Research and Development position often involves conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and assisting senior team members with ongoing projects. You may spend time in both laboratory and office settings, preparing reports and presenting findings during team meetings. Collaboration is frequent, with opportunities to work alongside scientists, engineers, and cross-functional staff to support product or process improvements. While each day may vary depending on project phases, you can expect a balance between hands-on experimental work and documentation or analysis duties. This role is ideal for those who enjoy solving problems, learning new techniques, and contributing to innovative solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in entry level research and development?

To thrive as an Entry Level Research and Development professional, you generally need a bachelor's degree in a science or engineering field with strong analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical software, and technical documentation systems is often highly valued. Attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to communicate results clearly are important soft skills for excelling in this role. These competencies are crucial for designing experiments, troubleshooting issues, and effectively contributing to innovation within a team-oriented environment.

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

The most popular types of Research And Development jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Research And Development jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Research And Development job openings:

Entry Level Research And Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Research And Development job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,921 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Research Associate - Entry Level

Institute for Defense Analyses

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

About IDA
The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a private, nonprofit corporation headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. IDA's mission is to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science policy questions with objective analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. IDA operates three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC's).
Why Work for IDA?
We are seeking a Research Associate to support projects in both the Science, Systems and Sustainment Division (S3D, as the home division) and Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI, as the secondary division). Researchers within IDA are self-starting scientists and engineers who advise Department of War (DoW), Department of Homeland Security, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and other agency officials and selected audiences on challenges of national and global significance. We provide independent analytical products to help solve problems facing senior executives and military officials across the Federal government. IDA scientists and engineers offer our sponsors insight into technology trends and the impact of emerging advances by bringing rigor to technology readiness assessments, science and technology ecosystem characterization including workforce analysis, and independent perspectives on technology risks and mitigation strategies. The Research Associate will facilitate data-driven decision-making by conducting research using methods such as statistical analysis, natural language processing, literature review, computer code development, or modeling and simulation. Strong problem-solving skills are critical, and duties will also include report writing, developing visualizations of data and research results, presenting results, and other project-related tasks as directed by research staff. Projects may cross the full domain of science and technology; therefore, applicants should be willing to regularly learn new topics that concern national security and science and technology policy.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Provide qualitative and quantitative analytic support to government sponsors (e.g., analysis of scientific research developments and progress in areas of interest to defense sponsors, analysis of policy and program data, analysis of scientific and industrial capabilities relevant to sponsor interests).
  • Assist in the preparation of documents (e.g., briefings and reports on the design, conduct, and findings of data analyses, graphs that clearly present findings from analyses)
  • Identify and prepare useful data sources for analysis to address questions of sponsor interest.

What Will You Need?
  • We are seeking a highly analytical person who is able to both collaborate on cutting-edge research projects within S3D and STPI while also conducting independent research in support of S3D's DoW and STPI's OSTP and other agency sponsors.
  • An ideal candidate will enthusiastically and proactively develop new data sources and analytical methodologies to help address complex and challenging research questions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in physical sciences, engineering, computer science, or related fields as well as demonstrated analytical skills and the ability to conduct independent research.
  • Expertise in topics related to natural language processing, autonomous systems, robotics, AI, S&T policy, or researcher networks will be viewed as a plus. Experience in a research setting with natural language processing methods and related language-based machine learning or artificial intelligence tools is particularly desired.
  • Data analysis experience using Python, Matlab, R, or similar languages.
  • Ability to work within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Some travel may be required.
  • Successful completion of a background check is required.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Why work at IDA?
IDA, as a non-profit, is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. This position is located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C.
IDA offers the following benefits and resources to their employees:
  • Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
  • Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
  • Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
  • A culture of work-life balance, including flex time, partial telework, and limiting work communication to core business hours;
  • The opportunity to craft your own unique research portfolio of distinct value to the national security enterprise.
  • A brand-new facility located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include a gym, cafeteria and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
  • Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?
  • Complete the application and submit your resume.

The application process consists of three interviews.
  • A short screening call with HR;
  • A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and
  • A full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project.

Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
  • 3 letters of recommendation; and
  • A writing sample.

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $67,335 - $190,249 Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Click here to learn more about IDA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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