ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Alpha Corporation

Roadway Design Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$78K - $96K/yr

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including drainage, structures, traffic, and utilities. * Assist in mentoring or supporting junior engineers and interns on roadway design tools and DOT ...

Alpha

Roadway Design Engineer

Baltimore, MD

$77K - $94K/yr

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including drainage, structures, traffic, and utilities. * Assist in mentoring or supporting junior engineers and interns on roadway design tools and DOT ...

CSG

Mechanical Systems Design Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

Mechanical Systems Design Engineer We are partnering with a cutting-edge advanced nuclear energy ... Teach and mentor more junior team members. Stay abreast of industry and academic trends ...

KBR

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

Washington, DC

$150K - $190K/yr

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

GFT.

Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Supervise and support the work of others and mentor junior level engineers & design/drafting technical staff. What you will bring to our firm: * Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Environmental, Mechanical ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsJunior Design Engineer JobsJunior Design Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

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 Jun 22, 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.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Age is not a barrier to becoming a junior design engineer, as many individuals start careers later in life. Success depends on skills, relevant education, and experience, which can be gained through training, certifications, and practical work regardless of age.

How much does a junior design engineer make?

A junior design engineer typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and level of experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires proficiency in CAD software and a relevant engineering degree.

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

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 specifications and standards. This role typically requires basic engineering knowledge, attention to detail, and good communication skills.

What does a Junior Design Engineer do?

A Junior Design Engineer assists in creating and developing designs for products, systems, or structures, usually under the supervision of more experienced engineers. Their responsibilities typically include drafting technical drawings, conducting basic analysis, preparing documentation, and collaborating with teams to refine design concepts. They often use computer-aided design (CAD) software and help ensure designs meet safety, quality, and industry standards. This role is an entry-level position that provides opportunities to learn and grow within the engineering field.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves leadership roles, bonuses, stock options, or working in high-demand industries with complex projects.

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 are popular job titles related to Junior Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Junior Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Junior Design Engineer jobs near you
Jr. Design Architect (Vectorworks) - Remote

Jr. Design Architect (Vectorworks) - Remote

micro1 AI

Washington, DC • Remote

$20 - $100/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Junior Architect / CAD Engineer (Vectorworks)


Job Type: Contractor


Location: Remote


Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.


Key Responsibilities:

  1. Leverage your knowledge of Vectorworks and CAD software to provide real-world architectural and design insights for AI training purposes.
  2. Review, analyze, and annotate architectural drawings and models to improve AI system performance.
  3. Collaborate with the customer’s team to ensure accurate and relevant data input regarding architectural workflows.
  4. Evaluate Building Information Modeling (BIM) content to ensure standards and best practices are met.
  5. Contribute feedback on design processes, drawing conventions, and project documentation as they relate to AI development.
  6. Participate in knowledge-sharing sessions to enhance AI models with up-to-date architectural expertise.
  7. Help identify gaps in system understanding and propose solutions rooted in industry experience.


Required Skills and Qualifications:

  1. Basic proficiency in Vectorworks for architectural drafting and design.
  2. Solid understanding of CAD principles and workflows in an architectural context.
  3. Familiarity with architectural design processes and project documentation.
  4. Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) for architecture projects.
  5. Detail-oriented mindset with strong analytical and observational skills.
  6. Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and concisely.
  7. Self-motivated, reliable, and comfortable working independently in a remote setting.


Preferred Qualifications:

  1. Hands-on experience in architectural studios or similar environments using Vectorworks.
  2. Understanding of AI applications in design or architecture (a plus, but not required).
  3. Familiarity with other CAD or BIM platforms alongside Vectorworks.

Apply