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Mechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Virginia

Gromelski & Associates

Mechanical Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

... Associates, Inc. (GAI) partners with prime contractors to provide professional services. Key service areas include Engineering Design and Documentation; Software Development and Testing; System ...

LaBella Associates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Richmond, VA

$103K - $136K/yr

Collaborate closely with the mechanical engineering team to formulate concepts, strategies ... LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies ...

LaBella Associates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Collaborate closely with the mechanical engineering team to formulate concepts, strategies ... LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies ...

LaBella Associates

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Collaborate closely with the mechanical engineering team to formulate concepts, strategies ... LaBella Associates does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiting professionals or agencies ...

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Are you a mechanical engineer virtuoso with a passion for engineering the world? Join us as a ... Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$90K - $131K/yr

Your Opportunity In this role, you will apply buildings mechanical engineering principles and ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP is preferred. * Typical office environment working with computers ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Your Opportunity In this role, you will apply buildings mechanical engineering principles and ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP is preferred. * Typical office environment working with computers ...

Stantec

Mechanical Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Your Opportunity In this role, you will apply buildings mechanical engineering principles and ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP is preferred. * Typical office environment working with computers ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering Associate JobsMechanical Engineering Associate Jobs in Virginia

Mechanical Engineering Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$102K

$165.1K

How much do mechanical engineering associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering associate in Virginia is $101,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical engineering associate?

Mechanical Engineering Associates are early-career professionals who support engineering teams in designing, testing, and improving mechanical systems and products. They typically assist with creating technical drawings, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and solving engineering problems under the supervision of senior engineers. This role is often a starting point for recent graduates in mechanical engineering, offering hands-on experience and opportunities to learn industry practices. Mechanical Engineering Associates may work in various sectors, such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, or energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineering associate?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Associate, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, CAD design, and problem-solving, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as exposure to industry standards like ASME, is often required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and convey technical concepts clearly. These capabilities ensure high-quality project outcomes and efficient integration within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Associate vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering AssociateMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or equivalentBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting roles in design, testing, and manufacturingDesign, analysis, and project management responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, product development, and technical supportDesign firms, industrial companies, and R&D departments

The Mechanical Engineering Associate typically holds an associate's degree and performs support tasks in engineering projects, while the Mechanical Engineer has a bachelor's degree and takes on more complex design and analysis responsibilities. Both roles are essential in engineering teams, but the associate role is more entry-level and supportive in nature.

What are the most common challenges faced by mechanical engineering associates when transitioning from academic projects to real-world engineering tasks?

One of the most common challenges Mechanical Engineering Associates encounter is adapting to the pace and complexity of real-world engineering projects compared to academic assignments. In industry, projects often involve tight deadlines, multidisciplinary teams, and the need to balance technical accuracy with practical constraints like budget and manufacturability. Associates must also become proficient in using industry-standard software and tools, and learn to interpret and apply company-specific standards. Effective communication with senior engineers and other departments is essential for success in this collaborative environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Associate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,996 per year, or $49 per hour.

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Systems Engineering Associates Corporation

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary: SEACORP is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead technical teams in the design, development, and integration of maritime electronic systems. This role combines senior-level engineering expertise with the responsibilities of a Task Manager, including the management of personnel and the planning, scheduling, and performance of contracted tasks. The manager oversees the development of ruggedized solutions for submarine and surface ship environments, ensuring that high-performance sensors and electronics operate reliably under demanding military specifications. In addition to technical leadership, the manager is responsible for providing mentorship, fostering team cooperation, and projecting a professional image of SEACORP to both external audiences and employees. 

Job Responsibilities Include:

  • Design and develop equipment racks and shipboard enclosures to military specifications (Mil-Spec) for submarine and surface ship applications. 
  • Oversee electronic packaging, including the design of equipment drawers and integrated electronic assemblies, and the mounting and layout of high-precision sensors. 
  • Direct analysis and modeling, performing Thermal Analysis and structural stress tests to analyze structural integrity and data. 
  • Manage standards compliance, reading and interpreting blueprints and technical drawings while ensuring designs conform to engineering and performance specifications. 
  • Support qualification processes, preparing equipment and documentation for Environmental Qualification Testing (EQT) to verify performance in extreme conditions. 
  • Conduct root cause analysis, investigating equipment failures and difficulties to diagnose faulty operation and recommend design modifications. 
  • Collaborate with personnel to implement operating procedures, resolve system malfunctions, or provide technical information. 
  • Manage, motivate, and instruct employees throughout the entire employment lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training/development, performance management, promotion, discipline, and termination. 
  • Provide mentorship for and assessment of personnel, including using business and management principles to make improvements or take corrective action where necessary. 
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with customers, department personnel, and other company staff for the completion of both contractual and SEACORP administrative purposes. 
  • Manage assigned task schedules and budgets in accordance with applicable contract/delivery orders, the SEACORP
  • Quality Management System (QMS), and the customer's requirements and needs. 

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