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Graduate Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This temporary position is seeking individuals currently enrolled in an Undergraduate or Graduate ... Learn basic principles of Mechanical Engineering. * Assist with project research, field work, and ...

This temporary position is seeking individuals currently enrolled in an Undergraduate or Graduate ... Learn basic principles of Mechanical Engineering. * Assist with project research, field work, and ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Mechanical Support

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $113K/yr

This role is a strong fit for a developing technical professional, recent graduate, field technician, facilities operator, building engineer, military mechanical professional, or construction-minded ...

Showing results 41-60

Graduate Mechanical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$102K

$165.1K

How much do graduate mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate mechanical engineer in Virginia is $101,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a graduate mechanical engineer do?

A Graduate Mechanical Engineer is an entry-level professional who applies principles of mechanical engineering to design, analyze, and improve mechanical systems. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers, assisting with tasks such as drafting technical drawings, modeling prototypes, conducting tests, and solving engineering problems. Their responsibilities may also include collaborating with other departments, preparing reports, and learning industry standards. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and training for recent graduates starting their engineering careers.

What are some typical projects or tasks a graduate mechanical engineer can expect in their first year?

As a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you will likely be involved in a variety of projects ranging from assisting in the design and analysis of mechanical components to preparing technical documentation and performing simulations. You may work closely with senior engineers on tasks such as creating 3D models, running tests on prototypes, and supporting product development meetings. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as manufacturing and quality assurance, is common, helping you gain a holistic understanding of the product lifecycle. This hands-on exposure is designed to build your technical skills and prepare you for increased responsibilities as you progress in your career.

What are jobs for a recent mechanical engineer graduate?

As a recent mechanical engineer graduate, you can find entry-level jobs in your field in a variety of positions that focus on helping design and develop the technical specifications for various products. In one of these roles, you get more hands-on experience than you do as a student. You help senior engineers on a project and utilize math and measuring skills to help design new machines. Some details of this job vary by employer. For example, some employers may have you focus on repairing existing devices to learn more about the ins and outs of the product they create, while others may have you focus on assisting senior-level engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), finite element analysis tools, and industry standards is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively and learn quickly in dynamic environments. These skills ensure you can contribute to innovative design solutions, meet project requirements, and advance in your engineering career.

What is the difference between Graduate Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectGraduate Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; entry-levelBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; some experience preferred
Work EnvironmentInternships, training programs, entry-level projectsDesign offices, engineering teams, project-based work
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in projects, learning design processes, basic analysisCreating and analyzing mechanical designs, CAD modeling, prototyping

While both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, a Graduate Mechanical Engineer is typically an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting projects. A Mechanical Design Engineer, on the other hand, is more specialized in designing and analyzing mechanical components and systems, often requiring some prior experience or advanced skills. Both roles are essential in the engineering industry, with the design engineer position generally involving more technical responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Mechanical Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Mechanical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,996 per year, or $49 per hour.

Mechanical Systems Engineering

L3Harris Technologies

Forest, VA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Mechanical Systems Engineer

Job Code: 41934

Job Location: Forest, VA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

The Shipboard Systems Mechanical Engineer designs, tests, troubleshoots, andimplements systems that satisfy specific customer requirements relating to a shipboard environment. These systems include L3Harris and vendor equipment with mechanical, electrical, and computing components that must integrate into an operational system that passes system tests. Since these systems incorporate technology of a sensitive nature, a U.S. citizenship is required. Since a portion of the position is involved with testing and physical manipulation of equipment, minimum personal mobility capabilities are also considered mandatory, (ability to traverse a ladder, lift/carry at least 35 lbs., perform light mechanical modification tasks such as working with hand tools, drills, etc.).

The successful candidate will work closely with experienced engineers who perform these functions now and will assign tasks and provide oversight as experience is gained. The candidate will also have significant exposure to vendors and external customers who purchase shipboard systems as well as the people within L3Harris who participate in these programs, requiring the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse audience. Understanding and adhering to established procedures and documenting results will also be a key skill. Additionally, general computer literacy is necessary for performing many daily tasks and the candidate must be able to travel occasionally. As this person adds to their knowledge of the L3Harris systems, a higher level of accountability, independence, and enthusiasm for branching into new areas will be expected to achieve career growth.

Essential Functions:

  • The Systems Engineer should have practical hands-on experience with technical systems. Experience in mechanical design and/or testing with a working knowledge of material properties, (geometry, strength, bending/welding etc.) is desired.
  • Crafting solutions for engineering problems
  • Growing knowledge in one or more specialty areas and working toward becoming an expert resource
  • Reporting regularly on project status and progress
  • Following established company policies and procedures

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering required; a dual degree in Electrical Engineering is preferred and aminimum 4 years of prior relevant experience. (OR) Graduate degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 8 years of prior related experience.
  • US Citizen
  • Ability to obtain Secret Clearance

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Able to work within a cross-functional team environment with excellent interpersonal skills. Effective at both verbal and written communication (English). The successful candidate will possess shared L3Harris values of Integrity, Teamwork, Excellence, and Accountability.
  • 3+ years technical experience in mechanical design, mechanical CAD, mechanical testing or related field
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent project tasks and prioritize them appropriately
  • Ability to clearly & concisely communicate issues for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrate leadership skills which include customer focus, change management, teamwork, diversity, and integrity
  • Self-motivated team player, able to set priorities and manage to deadlines
  • Ability to obtain Sec+ Certification

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia is $80,500 to $149,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-RK2

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time