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Junior Design Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Water Design Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$83K - $149K/yr

The Design Engineer at the senior-level (Engineer III) is expected to perform the specific duties ... The junior-level (Engineer I) is expected to perform the specific duties listed below with ...

Experience leading design efforts and mentoring junior engineers. Preferred Qualifications * Experience in electronics packaging, including thermal and structural considerations. * Familiarity with ...

Design Engineer 5 - Tysons, VA

Tysons, VA · On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission ... Directs more junior engineering team members through the project lifecycle to achieve engineering ...

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Junior Design Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.9K

$74.7K

$113.9K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in Reston, VA is $74,697.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $83,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by junior design engineers during their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Junior Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to company-specific design processes, managing multiple project deadlines, and bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Building strong communication with senior engineers and actively seeking feedback can help address these hurdles. Participating in team meetings and collaborating closely with other departments, such as manufacturing or quality assurance, also enhances understanding and ensures smoother project execution. Embracing continuous learning and leveraging available training resources will further boost confidence and technical growth in the role.

Are Junior Design Engineers well paid?

Junior Design Engineers typically earn entry-level salaries that vary by industry and location but generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Compensation can increase with experience, additional skills such as CAD proficiency, and relevant certifications. Entry-level roles often include opportunities for professional development and skill-building in design software and engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior design engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Design Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help you excel in team settings and adapt to project needs. These skills ensure accurate design work, efficient project collaboration, and successful development of innovative engineering solutions.

What is the role of a junior design engineer?

A junior design engineer assists in developing and modifying engineering designs, often using CAD software, under the supervision of senior engineers. They support project planning, perform calculations, and help ensure designs meet technical specifications and safety standards.

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

AspectJunior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; internships or entry-level certificationsBachelor's or higher in mechanical engineering; professional certifications optional
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign departments, R&D labs, manufacturing industries
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in engineering firms, manufacturing, automotive, aerospaceMid to senior-level roles in similar industries, often with more project responsibility

The main difference is that a Junior Design Engineer is an entry-level position focusing on learning and supporting design tasks, while a Mechanical Design Engineer typically has more experience and responsibility in designing mechanical systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Mechanical Design Engineer usually has more advanced skills and project ownership.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Junior Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Junior Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Junior Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Junior Design Engineer job openings:

Water Design Engineer

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$83K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description


IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking a Design Engineer I, II, or III to provide professional engineering and project management expertise for assigned projects, which include public works improvements and maintenance projects. Projects range in size, complexity, and scope, most of which generally don't require detailed designs and must be completed under a condensed schedule.
This employee will also provide engineering support to the drinking water program, within the Water, Sewer, and Streets (WSS) Bureau, which consists of 194 employees who work as a team to construct and maintain the County's sewers, water mains, streets, and sidewalks. The Bureau also utilizes consulting services as additional resources to augment project implementation and capacity.
This position may be filled at one of three levels. The Design Engineer at the senior-level (Engineer III) is expected to perform the specific duties listed below completely independently. The journey-level (Engineer II) is expected to perform the specific duties listed below with limited guidance from their supervisor. The junior-level (Engineer I) is expected to perform the specific duties listed below with significant guidance from their supervisor.
Responsibilities
Major Job Duties:
  • Developing designs and construction plans/drawings including cost estimates, technical specifications, and associated documentation for a diverse range of public works projects including water main replacements, water valve condition assessment and repair, water storage tank maintenance and rehabilitation, and leak detection;
  • Providing engineering support to the water meter team, including conducting field investigations, coordinating and evaluating water meter testing, troubleshooting meter and service-related issues, reviewing system and usage data, and recommending solutions to address related issues;
  • Analyzing water quality data and working to address unusual or unexpected water quality issues, in coordination with field crews and other staff;
  • Conducting field investigations and recommending solutions to resolve public works-related maintenance issues and citizen concerns;
  • Providing technical support and coordination with WSS construction crews, construction managers, and external contractors and utilities to implement a wide variety of public works improvements and maintenance projects;
  • Utilizing County databases to locate records of drawings, plats, deeds, as-builts, and past engineering plans to assist crews in resolving maintenance issues;
  • Coordinating with County, State, and Federal regulatory agencies to obtain permits;
  • Updating and maintaining the County's water system hydraulic model;
  • Overseeing and reviewing the work of external consultants who provide design and modeling services on selected projects, including providing consultation to other staff, citizens, and developers regarding the assigned area; and
  • Performing other work-related duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will possess technical expertise in civil engineering, excellent teamwork skills, and the ability to solve problems quickly, along with strong multitasking capabilities.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or other applicable engineering discipline; AND

Junior Level - Engineer I:
  • Experience using Autodesk Civil 3D or similar CAD software.

Journey Level - Engineer II:
  • 3 years of post-Bachelor's professional engineering experience in street design, storm drainage design, sanitary sewer design, water distribution or related area; OR
  • 2 years of post-Bachelor's professional engineering work experience in a related field, plus at least 1 of the applicable certifications (see below).

Senior Level - Engineer III:
  • 5 years of post-Bachelor's professional engineering experience in street design, storm drainage design, sanitary sewer design, water distribution or related area; OR
  • 3 years of post-Bachelor's professional engineering work experience in a related field, plus at least 2 of the applicable certifications (see below).

List of applicable certifications:
  • VDOT Advanced Work Zone certification;
  • Project Management Professional;
  • Arlington County Project Officer;
  • LEED Green;
  • LEED AP;
  • DEQ Combined Administrator (either Erosion and Sediment Control or Stormwater Management); and/or
  • 40 hours of FHWA, VDOT, NACTO, ITE, or UVA-TTA approved training.

Substitution: Experience may not be substituted for the Engineering Degree requirement. A Master's Degree in Civil Engineering may be substituted for one year of Engineering experience.
Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with a Master's Degree in a related field and one or more of the following:
  • Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the Commonwealth of Virginia or a state with reciprocity;
  • Experience designing and implementing water main replacement projects;
  • Experience using PCSWMM, SewerGEMS, WaterGEMS, InfoSewer, InfoWater, or other similar software variants for stormwater, wastewater, and water distribution systems hydraulic modeling; and/or
  • Experience using software such as Civil 3D or similar CAD, and ArcGIS.

Special Requirements
Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
Driver's License: Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver's license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicant's driving record. Alternatively, the applicant must have the ability and willingness to use alternative methods of transportation to perform assigned duties and responsibilities at locations other than the primary worksite.
Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions.
Additional Information
Employees who are registered Professional Engineers will be eligible for an additional pay premium of $2,600 annually.
Work Hours: Monday through Friday, flexible work schedule between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with some telework opportunities with supervisor approval. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required depending on community meetings, snow events, or emergencies requiring a response.
The official job titles are Engineer I, II and III. The positions are part of a multi-grade career ladder from junior through senior and the overall annual salary range is $83,158.40 - $149,240.00. Individuals appointed to positions can progress through each level based on a combination of education, experience, and the achievement of competencies. The salary ranges for each level are as follows:
  • Engineer I: $83,158.40 - $128,876.80
  • Engineer II: $87,318.40 - $135,324.80
  • Engineer III: $96,304.00 - $149,240.00

This position is eligible for County government employee benefits that include health, dental, vacation and sick leave, commuter transportation subsidies, tuition reimbursement, as well as a generous retirement plan.
For more information on Arlington County's generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
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