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

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Mechanical Design Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$47.3K

$95.3K

$142K

How much do mechanical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineer in Reston, VA is $95,274.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,100.00 and $107,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is ensuring that mechanical designs align with the requirements and constraints of other disciplines, such as electronics placement or thermal management. Effective communication and regular meetings are crucial to resolve conflicts, address design changes, and keep projects on schedule. Building strong cross-functional relationships helps Mechanical Design Engineers anticipate potential issues early and deliver integrated solutions.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and relevant certifications (like FE or PE) is highly valuable. Strong teamwork, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on multidisciplinary projects and present design solutions. These abilities are crucial for developing innovative, manufacturable designs that meet both technical requirements and client needs.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices and systems. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed blueprints and models, ensuring that products meet required specifications and standards. Their work often involves problem-solving, selecting appropriate materials, and collaborating with other engineers and teams to bring a concept from idea to production. Mechanical Design Engineers are found in a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and energy.

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

AspectMechanical Design EngineerMechanical Drafter
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredAssociate degree or technical diploma in drafting or CAD technology
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDrafting departments, engineering firms, manufacturing settings
ResponsibilitiesDesigns, analyzes, and develops mechanical systems and componentsCreates detailed technical drawings and plans based on engineers' designs

The main difference is that Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing and developing mechanical systems, requiring engineering degrees and licenses, while Mechanical Drafters prepare detailed drawings based on engineers' concepts, typically with technical diplomas. Both roles work closely in the engineering process but serve different functions within the product development cycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Mechanical Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,274 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer III

Southland Industries Inc.

Dulles, VA • On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Southland Industries rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Summary

Lead, evaluate, design, and engineer projects and systems to specification on projects ranging from new design/build to rehabilitation of existing facilities and systems. Provide ongoing technical guidance and engineering issue resolution as needed.

Position Details

  • Performs complex calculations, drawings and specifications related to HVAC, plumbing, fire protection or other systems
  • Performs complex calculations for a project, such as heating/cooling loads, equipment selection and sizing, friction loss calculations, hydraulic calculations, etc.
  • Develops standards, methods, processes and procedures for reviewing, evaluating and inspecting designs.
  • Determines methods and solutions for complex engineering problems and identify the most efficient and acceptable solution.
  • Directs the workflow of less-experienced engineers on assigned projects. Mentors and provides guidance on design and technical issues.
  • Writes technical narratives in response to RFIs.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
  • PE License preferred
  • Minimum 6 years of experience
  • Strong knowledge of applicable systems design, such as fire suppression, HVAC, plumbing, etc., as well as general understanding of system operations.
  • Ability to read mechanical and plumbing plans.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong computer skills, including CADD and Microsoft Office Products, including Excel

Benefits

As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:

  • 401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee)
  • Annual bonus program based upon performance, achievement, and company profitability
  • Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance
  • Disability income protection insurance
  • Pre-tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care)
  • Paid parental leave
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time
  • Training/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses
  • Wellness benefits

About Southland Industries

As one of the nation's largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast-paced environment where you're engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.

To learn more about careers at Southland, explore our career opportunities, follow us on social media, and check out our website.

Southland Industries and all its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing our employees with a safe work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Southland Industries are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, family care or medical leave status, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Southland Industries will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Contingent Employment: All employment offers are contingent upon successful drug tests, background checks, and professional reference checks. Roles that include driving as an essential job duty will be required to have a successful Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR). We are not able to offer sponsorship of employment at this time.

External Agency Announcement: Its Southland Industries' policy not to accept candidate submissions from recruiting agencies without an active and authorized work order. Candidate ownership can only be established after a bona fide work order is issued by a member of the Southland Industries Talent Acquisition team and the candidate is appropriately submitted through our Applicant Tracking System (ATS).


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