2

Federal Entry Level Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... applicable federal, state, and local law. Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Showing results 21-40

Federal Entry Level information

See Washington salary details

$14

$19

$25

How much do federal entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for federal entry level in Washington is $19.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal entry level job?

Federal entry level jobs are positions within the U.S. government that are designed for individuals who are just starting their careers or have limited professional experience. These roles are commonly open to recent college graduates, students, and individuals with relevant skills or training but little to no prior work history in federal service. Entry level federal jobs can be found in various agencies and typically provide opportunities for advancement, training, and long-term career growth within government. They may include administrative, technical, or specialized positions and are often listed at the GS-5 to GS-7 pay grades.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal entry level employee?

To thrive as a Federal Entry Level employee, you generally need a bachelor’s degree or relevant experience, strong organizational skills, and an understanding of government procedures. Familiarity with office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite), federal HR systems (like USAJOBS), and sometimes security clearance processes is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, effective communication, and a commitment to public service are critical soft skills. These competencies are essential for efficiently navigating complex federal processes, ensuring compliance, and contributing positively to agency goals.

What are some common challenges faced by new hires in federal entry level positions, and how can they be overcome?

New hires in federal entry-level positions often face challenges such as navigating complex bureaucratic processes, adapting to a structured work environment, and understanding government-specific protocols. It's important to take advantage of onboarding resources, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and actively participate in training programs offered by the agency. Building a network within your department and asking questions early on can help ease the transition and set you up for success in your federal career.

What is the difference between Federal Entry Level vs Federal Clerk?

AspectFederal Entry LevelFederal Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require a bachelor's degreeHigh school diploma; some roles may require additional certifications or coursework
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, federal agencies, administrative settingsCourts, legal offices, administrative support in federal agencies
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. federal government hiring for various departmentsFederal judiciary and legal departments
Common Search & ComparisonPeople compare entry-level federal jobs with clerical roles in governmentOften compared with other administrative or clerical federal roles

The Federal Entry Level position generally involves administrative tasks within federal agencies, requiring minimal experience and basic credentials. Federal Clerks typically work in courts or legal settings, focusing on legal documentation and support. While both roles serve federal institutions, the main difference lies in their specific work environments and responsibilities.

What is considered entry-level in federal government?

In the federal government, entry-level positions are typically designated as GS-5 or GS-7 grades, requiring minimal prior experience and often a high school diploma or bachelor's degree. These roles usually involve on-the-job training and are suitable for recent graduates or individuals starting their federal careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Federal jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Federal Entry Level job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,899 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop site/civil design components such as grading, roadway, storm water management, and erosion and sediment control systems.

  • Prepare calculations, reports, and spreadsheets related to site/civil development projects.

  • Collaborate with design teams to develop detailed design documents for construction plans.


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Dewberry is currently seeking an Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer to join our Site/Civil department in our Fairfax, VA office to work on a variety of projects for clients within the commercial and government sector. This is an excellent career opportunity for an enthusiastic and talented individual to join a team of outstanding professionals, and the opportunity to apply the latest technology to help our clients solve their most challenging problems. Typical projects involve site/civil design for residential, commercial and industrial site development, and capital improvement projects.
Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.
Responsibilities
  • Site/civil development including grading design, roadway design, storm water management systems design, and erosion and sediment control design
  • Preparation of all associated calculations, reports and spreadsheets
  • Working on design teams in all aspects of a given project to develop detailed design documents for construction plans
  • May also conduct code research, write specifications, and obtain permitting

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering required
  • Previous internship experience preferred
  • 0 - 4 years experience
  • EIT is strongly preferred
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft office is required
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work in a team environment

Don't meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. So if you're excited about this role, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.
Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.
Salary Range
The projected range for this position is $82,500 - $85,000 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.
Program Information
Entry-Level Class Program
As an entry-level hire, you'll be part of a class of peers with 0-1 year of professional experience. Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and team building activities led by an advisory team to:
  • Form lasting connections with peers in your class.
  • Gain a better understanding of career growth and meaningful opportunities to align with your professional goals.
  • Expand your knowledge of Dewberry and what we do.

What Dewberry employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom