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Graduate Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Performing various aspects of Civil engineering on projects, or portions of projects, as directed ... Post-graduate degree in Civil Engineering or Civil Engineering-related degree may be given ...

$55K/yr

Professional engineering. To be acceptable, the curriculum must: (1) be in a school of engineering ... OR 2. You have one full year (18 semester hours or the equivalent) of graduate level study, or ...

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Graduate Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do graduate engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate engineering in Virginia is $31.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $37.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Graduate Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectGraduate EngineeringMechanical Engineering
QualificationsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldRequires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, often with licensure options
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, and technologyDesign, analysis, and manufacturing in industries like automotive, aerospace, and energy
Employer UsageEmployers hire graduate engineers for training and development programsEmployers seek mechanical engineers for product design, testing, and maintenance

Graduate Engineering is an entry-level role for those with an engineering degree, often across multiple disciplines, while Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on designing and manufacturing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in focus and career paths.

What jobs do engineering graduates get?

Engineering graduates can pursue roles such as civil, mechanical, electrical, software, or chemical engineers. These positions often require knowledge of technical tools, problem-solving skills, and sometimes professional certifications, and they are typically found in industries like manufacturing, technology, construction, and energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Engineer, you typically need a degree in engineering, strong analytical abilities, and a solid grasp of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as any relevant certifications, is highly beneficial. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help set you apart in collaborative and fast-paced project environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering innovative solutions and contributing effectively to engineering projects.

Is earning $70,000 out of college with an engineering degree good?

For a graduate engineer, earning $70,000 annually is generally considered a competitive starting salary in many regions, especially for those with a bachelor's degree. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and specialization, but this figure often reflects a solid entry-level compensation for engineering roles involving skills like CAD, MATLAB, or project management. Additional certifications or internships can further enhance earning potential over time.

What can a graduate engineer do?

A graduate engineer can perform tasks such as assisting in design, analysis, and testing of engineering projects, supporting senior engineers, and gaining practical experience in their field. They often work with tools like CAD software and may pursue certifications to advance their careers. Entry-level roles typically involve learning industry standards and developing technical skills in a professional environment.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is a graduate engineer?

A graduate engineer is someone who has recently completed an engineering degree, typically a bachelor's or master's, and is starting their professional career in the engineering field. They usually work under the supervision of experienced engineers while gaining practical experience and developing their technical and professional skills. Graduate engineers often participate in structured graduate programs, which may include rotations through different departments or projects. These roles are designed to help them transition from academic study to full professional responsibility.

What types of projects can a Graduate Engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Graduate Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects that may include supporting senior engineers with design, analysis, testing, or implementation tasks. Early in your career, you might participate in rotations across different departments or disciplines, allowing you to gain exposure to multiple areas such as project management, field work, or research and development. Typically, you'll work as part of a collaborative team, contributing to both short-term assignments and longer-term projects while receiving mentorship and feedback. This hands-on experience is designed to help you build technical skills, understand organizational processes, and identify your preferred career path within engineering.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Graduate Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Civil Engineer Graduate

Civil Engineer Graduate

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$67K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description


Join Clark Nexsen, a JMT Company, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our clients-while making a meaningful impact on our communities and the world through the projects we help bring to life.
A Civil Engineer Graduate will be responsible for assisting in various aspects of the Civil engineering portion of a project while working under the close supervision and guidance of a licensed Civil Engineer (PE). Typical responsibilities include discrete tasks associated with designing a site, subdivision, or utilities. This person will work in stand-alone and multi-discipline design teams supervised by senior engineers and project managers on projects of small to medium scope.
Compensation for this position is $67,080 - $76,960, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.
General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Performing various aspects of Civil engineering on projects, or portions of projects, as directed by a senior or lead project engineer and in conformance with the applicable zoning ordinances, standards and specifications. Projects may include site design for buildings or subdivisions, design for infrastructure projects, and design related to a business development activity such as a response to a Request for Proposal (RFP).
  • Working closely with the lead project engineer to develop a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of Civil engineering
  • Assisting with the preparation of programming documents, schematic documents, design development documents, and construction documents as directed
  • Performing various duties associated with the bidding process, including preparing addenda and amendments, open and tabulate bids as directed
  • Assisting with the various duties associated with the construction phase, including field visits, answering RFIs, reviewing shop drawings, and preparing record drawings as directed
  • Complying with quality control policies and procedures
  • Learn and implement department and company standards
  • Participating in team meetings and coordinating efforts with other team members
  • Actively participate in education, mentoring and IDP programs
  • Perform Engineer tasks as assigned
  • Perform hydrological analysis to evaluation the effects of rainwater on a site
  • Perform hydraulic analysis to evaluation the design of a storm drainage system
  • Assist with the design of storm drainage and water quality systems
  • Assist with the design of water distribution systems
  • Assist with the design of sanitary sewer systems
  • Assist with site layout and site grading
  • Assist with the design of roadway projects
  • Assist with preparing LEED templates
  • Adhere to project budget and schedule
  • Working with, responding to, and taking direction from Senior Engineers, Project Managers and Design Managers

Required Skills
  • Ability to arrange housing for the period of employment
  • Ability to prepare effective and concise documents
  • Possess technical precision and creative design skills
  • Ability to make presentations to a variety of groups
  • Display abilities to work well with others in a team environment

Required Experience
  • Graduation from an ABET-accredited 4-, 5-, or 6-year engineering program in one of the following disciplines:
    • Civil Engineering
    • Civil and Environmental Engineering
    • Civil, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering
    • Civil Engineering Technology
  • Post-graduate degree in Civil Engineering or Civil Engineering-related degree may be given additional consideration
  • Completed or be in a position to complete the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and all other state requirements for certification as an EIT is preferred.
  • Ability to complete all requirements for PE licensure within 60 months after being hired is preferred
  • Understanding of sustainable design principles and design practices and pursuing LEED AP accreditation is desirable
  • Additional certifications such as CDT, CCS, or CCCA are encouraged to reflect personal growth in the profession and an ever increasing knowledge base to enhance the design and documentation process
  • Active membership in NSPE, ASCE or other related professional organizations is desirable
  • A Civil Engineer Graduate should be able to effectively utilize current company software programs for word processing, e-mail, and information management.
  • Working familiarity with design and production software to a point of being able to utilize the software in the development of project documents and interact with other project team members in their use of the software is highly desirable.
  • Successful completion of at least one student internship is desirable.
  • Prior experience in an Engineering or multi-discipline Architectural & Engineering firm is desirable.
  • Familiarity with applicable building codes and standards is desirable.
  • Ability to prepare effective and concise documents and correspondence.
  • Ability to make presentations to a variety of groups
  • Have a client-oriented attitude with a desire to provide outstanding professional services
  • Be dedicated to his or her professional development as well as the success of colleagues and the firm as a whole
  • Be dedicated to the advancement of the engineering profession

Working Conditions
At JMT, we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and offer a flexible hybrid working schedule. The selected candidate is expected to work in a JMT office location at least three days per week or as needed to perform assigned duties. While most of our work is desk-based, there may be times when standing, walking, bending and lifting of minimal weight are required. Our office environment is comfortable, has adequate lighting and temperature, and is free from noise, dust, and other hazards. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.