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Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

This position will work with a team of engineers and scientists to design and evaluate novel and high throughput manufacturing techniques for next generation diagnostic consumables, and eventually ...

Lead, Manufacturing Electrical Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$163K - $170K/yr

Lead, Manufacturing Engineering Job Code: 37529 Job Location: Ashburn, Va Job Schedule: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days- totaling 80 hours worked- and have every other Friday off L3Harris is ...

This includes deliverable engineering development units (EDUs) and flight units as well as low-rate initial production. In addition to manufacturing execution, this role oversees production planning ...

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Manufacturing Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$49.4K

$89.1K

$124.8K

How much do manufacturing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing engineer in Reston, VA is $89,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $97,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Manufacturing engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and process optimization, and in senior or managerial roles. High salaries are often associated with industries like aerospace, automotive, or specialized manufacturing, and may require certifications such as Six Sigma or professional engineering licensure.

What are some common challenges a Manufacturing Engineer faces in optimizing production processes?

Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing efficiency with product quality, minimizing production costs while maintaining safety standards, and implementing new technologies without disrupting existing workflows. They may also need to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate with cross-functional teams, such as quality assurance and maintenance, to resolve issues quickly. Staying up-to-date with industry advancements and continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma is essential to overcoming these challenges and driving process enhancements.

What are Manufacturing Engineers?

Manufacturing Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and improve manufacturing processes in factories and production plants. They focus on increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and ensuring that products are made safely and cost-effectively. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers, quality control teams, and production staff to optimize workflows and integrate new technologies into manufacturing systems.

What is the job of a manufacturing engineer?

A manufacturing engineer designs, develops, and improves manufacturing processes to increase efficiency, quality, and safety. They analyze production workflows, select appropriate tools and equipment, and often use CAD software to optimize operations. The role typically requires knowledge of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations.

What Is a Manufacturing Engineer?

A manufacturing engineer is a specialized engineer who improves product manufacturing processes. As a manufacturing engineer, your primary duties are to design and develop production systems and improve the tools and systems within the manufacturing process. You will use computer software such as CAD to create, modify, and test the products and manufacturing processes.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Manufacturing engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually, but senior engineering roles such as engineering managers, director-level positions, or specialized consultants in manufacturing can reach or exceed this salary level, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or profit-sharing in addition to base salary.

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

To thrive as a Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, process optimization, and quality control, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, Six Sigma or Lean Manufacturing certifications, and experience with automation systems are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate and drive continuous improvement. These abilities ensure efficient production processes, cost reduction, and high product quality in a competitive manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectManufacturing EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering; certifications like CMfgEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, manufacturing facilitiesDesign offices, research labs, manufacturing settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, production, industrial sectorsAutomotive, aerospace, energy, product design

Manufacturing Engineers focus on optimizing production processes and workflows within manufacturing environments, while Mechanical Engineers design and analyze mechanical systems. Both roles require engineering degrees, but Manufacturing Engineers are more involved in process improvement and production efficiency, whereas Mechanical Engineers often work on product design and mechanical system development.

How much do manufacturing engineers earn?

Manufacturing engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.
What are the most commonly searched types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Manufacturing Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Manufacturing Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,068 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
Engineer IV, Manufacturing Research

Engineer IV, Manufacturing Research

MSD

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$116K - $177K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
This position will play a critical role in supporting high-impact research initiatives at MSD related to the research and development of manufacturing methods for clinical consumables. This position will work with a team of engineers and scientists to design and evaluate novel and high throughput manufacturing techniques for next generation diagnostic consumables, and eventually work closely with an internal automation team to scale up to high volume production. The role involves close collaboration with both internal departments and external partners to drive innovation and achieve research objectives.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead a multidisciplinary team in the research and development of new high-volume manufacturing methods for consumables.
  • Guide the consumable design process to be highly scalable and high quality.
  • Develop and prototype systems for consumable manufacturing and inspection.
  • Make and guide key technical decisions throughout research and development activities.
  • Perform hands-on work as part of active experimental programs.
  • Prepare and present project designs and technical reports as needed.
  • Create and/or update manufacturing and project documents and procedures.
  • Work with Quality to ensure products are manufactured and/or assembled according to quality guidelines.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Engineering or related field is required.
    • Master's degree in a similar field is preferred.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in high throughput plastic manufacturing
  • Minimum 5 years of experience manufacturing biological products preferred
  • Experience with cGMP and/or ISO certification is preferred
  • Desirable skill sets may include but not be limited to the following:
    • Manufacturing immunoassays and/or reagents.
    • In-vitro diagnostic devices and consumables.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Deep experience with several of the following manufacturing methods at scale:
    • Roll-to-Roll processing and converting
    • Sheet-to-sheet or sheets-on-shuttle processing
    • Plastic film and metal foil processing techniques:
      • Bonding (thermal, ultrasonic, laser, adhesive, solvent)
      • Forming (stamping, thermal embossing, drawing, ultrasonic)
      • Cutting (laser, knife)
    • o Liquid integration (Blister packs design and formation or similar)
      • Plastic vapor barriers (materials and methods)
      • Liquid addition and sealing
      • Lyophilized reagent addition and sealing
    • Coating techniques such as:
      • Liquid and ink: Slot Die, micro gravure, Meyer rod, ink jet, spray coating, screen printing, and dip coating
      • Vacuum based: sputtering and evaporation
    • Biological handing and coating
  • Logical problem solving and demonstrated ability to organize and move project tasks forward in an orderly and structured fashion.
  • Ability to lead and guide staff to meet department goals.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking and analytical skills, as well as the ability to handle complex situations and demonstrate sound judgment and problem solving.
  • Excellent oral, written communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected including the ability to multi-task and work productively in a demanding research environment with changing priorities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position will operate in the following areas of the organization:
  • Traditional office environment;
  • Chemistry and BSL-1/BSL-2 lab environment;
  • Engineering prototype and production space

COMPENSATION SUMMARY
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $116,600 to $177,800 This salary range represents a general guideline as MSD considers other factors when presenting an offer of employment, such as scope and responsibilities of the position, external market factors, and the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, education and experience. Employees may qualify for a discretionary or non-discretionary bonus in addition to their base salary. These annual bonuses are intended to recognize individual performance and enable employees to benefit from the Company's overall success.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
At MSD, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and financial security. In addition to competitive salaries, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with prescription benefits. We provide a 401(k) plan with company matching, flexible spending accounts, and company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance as well as group life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Our offerings also encompass paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and paid parental leave, along with an employee assistance program. Additional voluntary perks include a fitness club membership contribution, pet insurance, identity theft protection, home and auto insurance discounts, and optional supplemental life insurance.
EEO STATEMENT
MSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, genetic information, marital status, national origin, age, protected veteran status, pregnancy, disability status, or any other protected characteristic. For our full EEO statement, please visit here. Meso Scale Diagnostics uses E-Verify to validate the work eligibility of candidates.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.