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Mechanical Design Engineering Jobs in Washington

Mechanical Design Engineer II

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Engineering at Dedrone is tasked with delivering innovative solutions and products to maintain our position on the cutting-edge of innovation. Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ...

Mechanical Design Engineer II

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $144/hr

Engineering at Dedrone is tasked with delivering innovative solutions and products to maintain our position on the cutting-edge of innovation. Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ...

New

Mechanical Design Engineer II

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Engineering at Dedrone is tasked with delivering innovative solutions and products to maintain our position on the cutting-edge of innovation. Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ...

Showing results 41-60

Mechanical Design Engineering information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$103.7K

$154.6K

How much do mechanical design engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical design engineering in Washington is $103,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $116,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is mechanical design engineering?

Mechanical design engineering is a branch of engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems and products. Mechanical design engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to create everything from small individual parts to large-scale machinery. Their work often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed models and prototypes before manufacturing. This discipline is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer electronics, ensuring that products are efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and certifications like FE or PE, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure innovative, safe, and efficient design solutions that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What are some of the common challenges mechanical design engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Mechanical Design Engineers often collaborate with electrical engineers, manufacturing teams, and project managers. One common challenge is ensuring that the mechanical design aligns with electrical requirements and manufacturability constraints, which can require frequent communication and compromise. Balancing innovative ideas with practical limitations such as budget, materials, and timelines is also a recurring challenge. Successful engineers develop strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to navigate these multidisciplinary interactions effectively.

What is the difference between Mechanical Design Engineering vs Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering?

AspectMechanical Design EngineeringMechanical Manufacturing Engineering
Primary FocusDesign and development of mechanical components and systemsManufacturing processes, production efficiency, and quality control
Skills & CertificationsCAD software, engineering principles, often requires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineeringManufacturing methods, quality assurance, often requires a bachelor's in mechanical or manufacturing engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, labs, CAD workstationsFactories, production lines, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageProduct design, R&D, prototypingMass production, assembly, process optimization

Mechanical Design Engineering focuses on creating and developing mechanical systems and components, while Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering emphasizes the production, process improvement, and quality control of those designs. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles and often collaborate closely in product development cycles.

Are mechanical design engineers in demand?

Mechanical design engineers are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, especially for those skilled in CAD software and product development. Employment growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for innovative, efficient designs, making it a stable career choice.

What does a mechanical design engineer do?

A mechanical design engineer develops, analyzes, and tests mechanical devices and systems using CAD software and engineering principles. They create detailed drawings, select materials, and ensure designs meet safety and performance standards, often collaborating with manufacturing teams. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of engineering tools are essential for this role.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Mechanical Design Engineering jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Mechanical Design Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Engineering job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,721 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer (Steam Generator)

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

$77K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop mechanical/physical concepts and support the development of structures, systems, and components for nuclear products or facilities with a focus on nuclear safety.

  • Plan and perform analysis to assess SSCs' ability to perform their intended functions and meet technical specifications and design requirements.

  • Create and maintain CAD models of reactor SSCs, support manufacturability and assembly assessments, and develop design documentation including calculations and drawings.


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:9801 Washingtonian Boulevard, Gaithersburg, Maryland

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.

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 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