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Entry Level Solidworks Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Design carts, tables, workstations, jigs and fixtures utilizing 3D modeling software (Solidworks ... environment (entry-level roles may require less). * Strong understanding of manufacturing ...

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special ... AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, Excel, MS Office Programming: Matlab, C, C++, JAVA, LINUX or other relevant ...

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special ... AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, Excel, MS Office Programming: Matlab, C, C++, JAVA, LINUX or other relevant ...

Entry Level Solidworks information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$22

$28

How much do entry level solidworks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level solidworks in Virginia is $22.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level SolidWorks jobs?

Entry-level jobs that use SolidWorks software focus on design and modeling using this CAD software. In this role, you may use this software for drafting a product design, testing ideas, and looking for flaws within existing product designs. Companies use SolidWorks for many different purposes, but entry-level jobs that specialize in using this software often include working under more experienced drafters or engineers. Other details of this job depend on the employer, and your job may not focus exclusively on using SolidWorks. As an entry-level employee, you may also spend time learning to use SolidWorks and other company software rather than helping develop products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level SolidWorks designer?

To thrive as an Entry Level SolidWorks Designer, you need foundational knowledge of mechanical design principles, a degree or coursework in engineering or drafting, and proficiency in SolidWorks CAD software. Experience with technical drawing standards, 3D modeling, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are also valuable. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These skills are crucial for accurately translating concepts into manufacturable designs, collaborating with teams, and ensuring project success.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level SolidWorks professional expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry-level SolidWorks professional, you will typically assist with creating and modifying 2D and 3D CAD models, updating engineering drawings, and supporting the design team with documentation. Common tasks include preparing parts and assembly models, collaborating with engineers to resolve design issues, and ensuring that drawings meet company standards. You may also participate in design reviews and occasionally help with prototypes or testing. This role offers hands-on exposure to the product development process and is a great foundation for advancing into more specialized engineering or design positions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Solidworks vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectEntry Level SolidworksMechanical Drafter
Required SkillsBasic Solidworks proficiency, CAD modeling, design documentationDrafting skills, CAD software knowledge, technical drawing
CertificationsOptional Solidworks certificationsDrafting certifications or technical diplomas often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesEngineering departments, manufacturing plants, architectural firms
Industry UsageProduct design, mechanical engineering, manufacturingConstruction, manufacturing, engineering projects

Entry Level Solidworks roles focus on creating 3D models and technical drawings using Solidworks software, often requiring basic CAD skills and certifications. Mechanical Drafters also produce technical drawings but may use a broader range of drafting tools and software. Both roles are common in engineering and manufacturing industries, but Entry Level Solidworks positions emphasize 3D modeling expertise, while Mechanical Drafters focus on detailed technical drawings.

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

The most popular types of Solidworks jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Solidworks job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,352 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer (Entry Level)

Qualdoc

Chesterfield, VA • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer (Entry Level)

Location: Chesterfield, VA
Schedule: 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off)
Job Type: Direct Hire
Starting Salary: $80,000/year (Higher salary available based on experience)
Travel: Approximately 10%

Position Overview

Seeking a hands-on Mechanical Design Engineer to design, improve, and support specialized heavy equipment and mechanical systems. This role covers the full product lifecycle-from concept and engineering through manufacturing, field deployment, testing, and ongoing improvement.

The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex mechanical problems and working directly with Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, vendors, and customers.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

  • Design new crane systems, heavy equipment, and mechanical components and modify existing equipment.
  • Turn concepts and field requirements into practical mechanical designs.
  • Perform reverse engineering and redesign of existing components.
  • Validate designs using engineering calculations, FEA, CAD modeling, prototyping, and field testing.
  • Improve equipment performance, manufacturability, serviceability, reliability, and cost.
  • Maintain and improve standard equipment designs while meeting engineering, safety, and customer requirements.

Project & Manufacturing Support

  • Manage engineering projects from concept through manufacturing, testing, implementation, and lifecycle support.
  • Lead crane rebuild and refurbishment activities, including inspections, repair planning, upgrades, testing, and final delivery.
  • Work with Manufacturing, Operations, vendors, and suppliers to support production schedules and product releases.
  • Provide technical assistance through troubleshooting, field inspections, on-site support, and emergency response.
  • Ensure equipment meets applicable specifications, engineering standards, and regulatory requirements.

Engineering Support

  • Apply sound engineering judgment to resolve technical challenges.
  • Maintain accurate engineering drawings, calculations, bills of materials (BOMs), and design records.
  • Support quality assurance, product standardization, and continuous improvement.
  • Communicate technical information effectively with customers, vendors, manufacturing personnel, and cross-functional teams.
  • Manage multiple projects and priorities, including changing requirements and emergency response needs.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a similar discipline.
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent parametric CAD software.
  • Working knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and ability to validate results using engineering calculations.
  • Understanding of mechanical design principles, manufacturing processes, and engineering documentation.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Commitment to workplace safety and engineering quality.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Willingness to travel approximately 10% for inspections, customer support, and field activities.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) certification.
  • CSWA or CSWP SolidWorks certification.
  • Experience designing heavy equipment, cranes, mobile equipment, or industrial machinery.
  • Experience with hydraulic and electrical systems.
  • Experience supporting products through manufacturing and field deployment.
  • Familiarity with OSHA, ASME, AWS, AAR, or other applicable engineering standards.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.
  • Primary work location in Chesterfield, VA, with occasional work at other facilities, customer sites, vendor locations, and field operations.
  • Engineers may occasionally support emergency operations outside normal business hours.
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, and communicate throughout the workday.
  • Ability to climb on equipment during inspections, testing, and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work extended hours when required.
  • Comfortable working safely in both office and industrial environments.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020