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

X-energy LLC is hiring HVAC Mechanical Design Engineers to support a Plant & Process Design team. This role is responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems and components. It includes ...

HVAC Mechanical Design Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

X-energy LLC is hiring HVAC Mechanical Design Engineers to support a Plant & Process Design team. This role is responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems and components. It includes ...

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Leidos currently has an opening for a Thermal/Mechanical Design Engineer to work in our Arlington, Virginia office. This is a highly dynamic and integrative environment in which talented and creative ...

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Leidos currently has an opening for a Thermal/Mechanical Design Engineer to work in our Arlington, Virginia office. This is a highly dynamic and integrative environment in which talented and creative ...

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Leidos currently has an opening for a Thermal/Mechanical Design Engineer to work in our Arlington, Virginia office. This is a highly dynamic and integrative environment in which talented and creative ...

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Leidos currently has an opening for a Thermal/Mechanical Design Engineer to work in our Arlington, Virginia office. This is a highly dynamic and integrative environment in which talented and creative ...

Mechanical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Description Leidos currently has an opening for a Thermal/Mechanical Design Engineer to work in our Arlington, Virginia office. This is a highly dynamic and integrative environment in which talented ...

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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 Jul 19, 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 Is a Mechanical Design Engineer?

A mechanical design engineer is a professional who designs mechanical products or systems. Mechanical design engineers often work in every aspect of product development: conducting research, designing, prototyping, and testing. Mechanical design engineers use their knowledge of science, technology, design, and mathematics to meet the product requirements.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior mechanical design engineers working in industries like aerospace or defense with advanced skills and certifications may also reach this level, especially in leadership roles or with extensive experience.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

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.

Can you make $200,000 a year as a mechanical engineer?

Earning $200,000 annually as a mechanical design engineer is possible but typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or automotive, and often holding senior or managerial positions. Salaries vary based on location, education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

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 does a mechanical designer engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems, creating detailed drawings and specifications using CAD software. They collaborate with teams to ensure designs meet functional, safety, and manufacturing requirements, often working within project deadlines and industry standards.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,274 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

HVAC Mechanical Design Engineer

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD

$77K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 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

X-energy LLC is hiring HVAC Mechanical Design Engineers to support a Plant & Process Design team. This role is responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems and components. It includes identifying requirements, conceptualizing system architecture and developing the layout through final design, performing process calculations, selecting and specifying equipment components ensuring they meet all technical specifications and program/project requirements. Additionally, this role oversees the implementation of rigorous, repeatable System Engineering processes, ensures technical integration, monitors risks, and provides system-level oversight and support. The position is responsible for managing the entire effort to bring the system from initial requirements to a fully functional operational state in accordance with X-energy design guides and standards and sound engineering principles.


Job Tasks/Responsibilities

  • Design and develop mechanical systems and components:
    • Understand how nuclear safety relates to system engineering and the work performed on a day-to-day occurrence.
    • 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.
    • Create and maintain CAD-generated engineering models.
    • Perform computations and analyses for thermal and hydraulic systems as required to ensure SSCs can meet technical requirements.
    • Write and develop design documentation including, but not limited to, design basis documents, technical reports, calculations, design descriptions and drawings in accordance with applicable procedures.
  • Perform Systems Engineering processes for the designed mechanical systems and components:
    • Demonstrate project management skills to effectively organize and lead external engineering partners.
    • Develop the technical content for and support the procurement of material, equipment, and services.
    • Review system engineering documentation from other systems for technical correctness and compliance with X-energy processes and procedures and participate in design reviews for other systems.
    • Actively support the safety culture and ensure integration of quality in all System Engineering processes by complying with the relevant requirements of the Quality Assurance Program.
    • Identify, document, report and manage system and project risks to ensure they are visible and mitigated accordingly.
  • Perform work in accordance with X-energy quality procedures for design and configuration management to ensure project quality requirements are met.
  • 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 some latitude for independent judgment.
  • Develop mechanical/physical system design concepts, design and support development of processes to create structures, systems, and components (SSCs). Planning/structuring scope for the analyses required to assess aspects of the SSCs to ensure they can perform their intended functions and meet design requirements and specifications.
  • Provide independent reviews and acceptance reviews of engineering deliverables and data. Manage the system development including planning, monitoring, and controlling of the complete engineering effort through all development life cycle phases.
  • Manage design development leads and subcontractors to define system and subsystem functional and physical architecture, critical design parameters, and descriptive drawings. Oversee documentation to applicable requirements, interfaces, design basis and criteria by coordinating with key stakeholders/systems engineers and identifying applicable industry codes and standards. Have a thorough understanding of the requirements contained within industry codes and standards and the intent which is implied. Direct the planning for the analyses required to assess all aspects of the SSCs to ensure they can perform their intended functions and meet all technical specifications and requirements. Supervise performance of computations utilizing hand calculations and analytical tools for structural, thermal, hydraulic, and other scoping calculations as required to ensure SSCs can meet all technical requirements. Oversee procured items and associated documentation for acceptance and verify compliance of procured services and material with contract specifications.
  • Develop and manage implementation of engineering changes in accordance with approved procedures.
  • Provide feedback and guidance to more junior team members with the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document.
  • Lead small groups of engineers to solve complex technical problems and deliver high quality engineering work products on time and within budget.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related engineering discipline from an ABET accredited university required.
  • Level II: Typically, three years of experience in a mechanical engineering role required (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience).
  • Level III: Typically, five years of experience in a mechanical engineering role required (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience).
  • Level IV: Typically, ten years of experience in a mechanical engineering role required (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience).
  • Level V: Typically, fifteen years of experience in a mechanical engineering role required (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience).
  • 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.
  • Typically, experience with mechanical process equipment design, procurement, installation, and/or operation is required.
  • Systems or Design Engineering experience in successful mechanical system development projects.
  • Experience with design and operation of mechanical systems including, but not limited to, steam, feedwater, condensate, HVAC, fire protection, drainage, compressed air, services, water-based systems, or nuclear systems.
  • Knowledge of system requirements management, and verification.
  • Knowledge of Systems Engineering processes, as well as relevant aspects of nuclear power plant licensing, regulatory, quality, and safety requirements.
  • Technical proficiency in fundamentals of mechanical design for structural and fluidic components, mechanisms, or manufacturing & processing equipment.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience designing and/or operating HVAC process equipment.

  • Experience working in the nuclear industry.

Location: 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD
Work Site Expectations:4 days onsite

Travel Expectations: Up to 10% as needed

Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm ET, 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.

Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual's qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth. The salary range for this position is:

Level II: $95,000- $120,000; Level III: $120,000- 145,000; Level IV: $130,000- $160,000; Level V: $165,000- $195,000

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