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

Sr Mechanical Engineer - MEP

Herndon, VA

$107.40K - $141.80K/yr

The Design Engineer P.E. will plan, direct, coordinate and evaluate the activities and performance of direct reports. This person needs to be a leader who helps to mentor and teach junior engineers.

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$75.9K

$115.7K

How much do junior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior design engineer in Reston, VA is $75,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $84,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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:

Mechanical Design Engineer (Steam Generator)

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD • On-site

$77.50K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/. We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us.

Job Description

Our Mechanical Design Engineer (Steam Generator) is responsible for the engineering design and development of mechanical systems, structures, and components. This includes concept development, evaluation of concepts, analysis of systems, structures, and components for their ability to perform their intended function, and ensuring they meet all technical specifications and requirements. The role will ensure the development of the systems and components through production including any necessary prototyping, testing, and commissioning.


Responsibilities

  • Develop mechanical/physical concepts, design and support development of processes to create or identify structures, systems, and components (SSCs) for use in nuclear products or facilities with a focus on nuclear safety.
  • Identify, collect, and document applicable requirements, interfaces, design basis and criteria by coordinating with key stakeholders/systems engineers and support identifying applicable industry codes and standards and the direction of project leads and systems engineers.
  • Planning and performing the analysis required to assess aspects of the SSCs to ensure they can perform their intended functions and meet technical specifications and design requirements.
  • Perform computations utilizing hand calculations and analytical tools for structural, thermal, hydraulic, and other scoping calculations as required at the direction of project leads and systems engineers to ensure SSCs can meet technical requirements.
  • The role may include specialization in one or more of the following areas:
    • Mechanical Design
      • Develop innovative mechanical solutions to refine and deploy concepts, technologies, and designs associated with X-energy developed reactors, including pressure vessels and piping, reactor internals, nuclear fuel, and high temperature materials such as graphite.
      • Integrate design activities across engineering team members, partners, and suppliers and perform supporting scoping and sizing calculations to downselect design features to meet design requirements using guidance from consensus codes and standards.
      • Create and maintain CAD-generated engineering models of reactor SSCs.
  • Support the assessment of SSCs for manufacturability as well as assembly and integration considerations at the direction of project leads.
  • Write and develop design documentation including design basis documents, technical reports, calculations, and drawings in accordance with applicable procedures.
  • Develop Verification and Validation (V&V) plans for analytical tools and support qualification of toolset.
  • Perform work in accordance with X-energy quality procedures for design and configuration management to ensure project quality requirements are met.
  • Provide independent reviews and acceptance reviews of engineering deliverables and data.
  • Maintain professional demeanor and behavior at all times in all forms of communication.
  • Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and extensive latitude for independent judgement.
  • Teach and mentor more junior team members.
  • Stay abreast of industry and academic trends, breakthroughs, and best practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, or related engineering discipline (e.g., nuclear aerospace, chemical, etc.) from an accredited institution required.
  • Typically, fifteen- twenty years of experience in an engineering role required.
  • A master's degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.
  • A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.
  • Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.
  • Proficiency with engineering hand calculations is required.
  • Experience and/or knowledge in a minimum of one of the following areas:
    • Mechanical Design
      • Designing and developing mechanical or fluid systems, assemblies, or components.
      • One plus years of demonstrated hands-on experience developing and delivering hardware or manufacturing processes in a production environment is required. May include industry internship experience, hobby, or participation in collegiate engineering projects such as: Formula SAE, Baja SAE, Design Build Fly, Rocket Club, etc.
      • Hardware ownership including manufacturing and testing oversight.
      • Use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and product lifecycle management (PLM) software.
  • E.g. UG/NX, SolidWorks, Pro-Engineer, Teamcenter, Windchill, or similar.
    • Mechanical Process Equipment
      • Piping, Ducting, HVAC, Fire Suppression, Pumps, Valves

Location: 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD

Work Schedule: 4 days a week in office
Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm, Mon-Fri

Compensation

As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.

A reasonable estimate for this position at the level of experience required is:

Level V: $130,950 - $218,250 Level VI: $140,550 - $234,250

Position Job Classification

Full time - Exempt

Benefits

X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.

Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)

E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish