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Entry Level System Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special projects team supporting priority security systems integration within the Department of State. You will ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$80K - $82K/yr

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Manassas, VA

$80K - $82K/yr

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... success! Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

RoviSys

Entry Level Engineer/Developer

Manassas, VA

$80K - $82K/yr

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Transportation Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$79K - $81K/yr

Dewberry is seeking Entry Level Transportation Engineers to join our Transportation Group in our ... drainage systems, erosion and sediment control, development of maintenance and protection of ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Water/Wastewater Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

Dewberry Engineers is seeking an Entry Level Water / Wastewater Engineer to join either our Fairfax ... systems. Typical projects involve working with local and regional municipal clients to solve ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Water/Wastewater Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$77K - $82K/yr

Dewberry Engineers is seeking an Entry Level Water / Wastewater Engineer to join either our Fairfax ... systems. Typical projects involve working with local and regional municipal clients to solve ...

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All JobsSystem Engineer JobsEntry Level System Engineer JobsEntry Level System Engineer Jobs in Washington

Entry Level System Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$60.6K

$144.1K

$189.1K

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level system engineer in Washington is $144,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $177,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level System Engineer, a solid grounding in computer science, networking fundamentals, and operating systems is essential, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like Linux, Windows Server, scripting languages (such as Python or Bash), and basic cloud platforms, as well as certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in team environments and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining system reliability, supporting IT infrastructure, and contributing to organizational success.

What is an Entry Level System Engineer?

An Entry Level System Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems and networks for organizations. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to resolve technical issues, monitor system performance, and ensure the security and reliability of IT infrastructure. Entry Level System Engineers often perform routine tasks such as software installations, updates, troubleshooting, and documenting system configurations. This role serves as a starting point for a career in systems engineering, providing foundational experience in IT operations and support.

What are some typical challenges entry-level system engineers face when transitioning from academic projects to real-world environments?

Entry-level system engineers often find that real-world projects involve more complex and interconnected systems than academic assignments. They may encounter challenges such as navigating legacy infrastructure, adhering to strict security protocols, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. Additionally, prioritizing tasks and troubleshooting under time constraints are common hurdles. However, active communication and a willingness to learn from senior engineers can help new hires adapt quickly and grow in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level System Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level System EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field; certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+Associate's degree or technical certification; CompTIA A+ often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems; often in office or data centersInstalling, troubleshooting, and repairing network hardware; on-site or helpdesk settings
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, tech companies, large organizationsTelecom providers, ISPs, corporate IT support

While both roles involve technical skills and certifications like CompTIA A+, Entry Level System Engineers focus on system design and integration, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle network hardware and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities within IT infrastructure.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Entry Level System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level System Engineer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,083 per year, or $69.3 per hour.

Design Engineer

Imperative Systems

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

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Design Engineer<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Imperative Systems is a privately\-owned company established in 2017 to enable the National Security Community to achieve their critical missions effectively, efficiently, and securely.  We provide expeditionary mission support, critical infrastructure protection and strategic advisory services on a worldwide basis to support the National Security Community. We are adaptive and agile, to meet the emerging needs of our specialized clientele.  We strive to build a culture of excellence around a team of the best people, equipped with the best skills and technical support to deliver results that exceed expectations, even in the most difficult circumstances. <\/span><\/span><\/span>
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Overview<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special projects team supporting priority security systems integration <\/span><\/span><\/span>within the Department of State.<\/span>  <\/span><\/span>You will test, evaluate and integrate a range of sensors and protective technologies as part of a larger team supporting deployment of bespoke solutions for our clients. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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Work Location<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Alexandria, Virginia.<\/span>  <\/span><\/span>DC Metro Area<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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Responsibilities:<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop strategies to test and verify systems and make recommendations to improve testing and operational demonstration.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Document and analyze test data. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop systems integration plans<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop code to network sensors or provide data feeds in C2 systems.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Develop strategies and materials for transition of systems to operators.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Support the team lead including the ability to respond to urgent requirements quickly and to analyze complex technical problems.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Review and produce a variety of written documents including memoranda, maintenance reports, and engineering surveys or service reports detailing specific services planned or performed.<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Conducts periodic and refresher training in accordance with program guidance from U.S. Government and third\-party contractors regarding the proper use and use, care, maintenance, and preventive maintenance of assigned systems.<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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<\/span>      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Presenting information and briefings to senior managers orally and in writing.<\/span><\/span><\/span>
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Work Environment:<\/b> Full\-time 40 hours a week when assigned to a domestic location. Full\-time 60 hours per week when deployed overseas.<\/span><\/span>
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Travel<\/b>: Position is based domestically but may entail travelling to overseas locations up to 25% of the time.<\/span><\/span>
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Requirements<\/h3>

Citizenship<\/b>: Position requires US citizenship.<\/span><\/span>
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Passport:<\/b> Must be able to obtain and travel on a US passport.<\/span><\/span>
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Clearance Requirements<\/b>: Must possess a minimum SECRET clearance to start and be able to obtain and maintain a TOP SECRET security clearance.<\/span><\/span>
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\n Required Skills:<\/b><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Education:<\/span><\/span> <\/span><\/span>BS\/BA in related discipline or advanced degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience.  Related disciplines include: Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, or Electromechanical Engineering<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Software:  <\/span>AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, Excel, MS Office<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Programming:  <\/span>Matlab, C, C++, JAVA, LINUX or other relevant language<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Ability to work collaboratively to solve problems within a cross\-functional development team<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Knowledge of Agile development and systems engineering processes<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>
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      <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience effectively and professionally communicating technical and program\-related information to multiple stakeholders and adherence to established communications plans. Candidate must be able to manage multiple tasks with competing priorities in dynamic, politically sensitive environments ensuring customer expectations are managed.<\/span><\/span>
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Benefits<\/h3>

Equal Opportunity Statement<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/u><\/b>
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Imperative Systems LLC provides equal opportunity to all applicants for employment as required by and\/or consistent with applicable country law and company policy. Consistent with the foregoing, Imperative Systems LLC provides qualified applicants consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veterans' status, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other status(s) protected by law. In the United States, Imperative Systems LLC ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. <\/span><\/span><\/span>
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\n Benefits<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/b>
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Successful candidates will be eligible to participate in Imperative's Health Benefits for the duration of their employment.  They will also be eligible to enroll in Imperatives 401(k). <\/span><\/span><\/span>
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