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Mechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

CIS Secure

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$38.11/hr

... engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our ... May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical ...

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All JobsMechanical Engineering JobsMechanical Engineering Trainee JobsMechanical Engineering Trainee Jobs in Virginia

Mechanical Engineering Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$45.1K

$102K

$165.1K

How much do mechanical engineering trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering trainee 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.

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

While most mechanical engineers earn less than $200,000 annually, those in senior roles, specialized fields, or working in high-cost regions can reach or exceed this level with experience, advanced skills, and professional certifications. High salaries are often associated with managerial positions, consulting, or working in industries like aerospace or energy. Entry-level positions typically offer lower compensation, and reaching a $200,000 salary usually requires significant experience and expertise.

What are Mechanical Engineering Trainees?

Mechanical Engineering Trainees are entry-level professionals or recent graduates who work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn practical skills and gain hands-on experience in the field of mechanical engineering. Their responsibilities may include assisting with design, analysis, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems or products. The trainee period helps them understand industry standards, tools, and workflows, preparing them for more advanced engineering roles in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, mathematics, and problem-solving abilities is essential, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help trainees effectively collaborate and learn from experienced engineers. These skills are crucial for successfully contributing to projects, addressing technical challenges, and developing into a competent mechanical engineer.

What types of projects and tasks can a Mechanical Engineering Trainee expect to work on during their first year?

As a Mechanical Engineering Trainee, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and design-oriented projects under the guidance of experienced engineers. Typical tasks include assisting with CAD modeling, performing basic calculations, supporting prototype development, and helping with testing and data collection. You may also participate in team meetings, collaborate with other departments like manufacturing or quality assurance, and contribute to process improvement initiatives. These experiences are designed to build your technical skills and provide exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Trainee vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering TraineeMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in mechanical engineeringBachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level position, often in manufacturing or design firmsDesign departments, engineering firms, or manufacturing companies
Job FocusLearning, assisting, and gaining practical experience in mechanical systemsCreating, analyzing, and improving mechanical designs and components

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineering Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning and gaining experience, while a Mechanical Design Engineer is a specialized professional responsible for designing mechanical systems. Trainees often work under supervision, whereas Design Engineers handle complex projects independently.

What is a mechanical engineer trainee?

A mechanical engineer trainee is an entry-level position for individuals gaining practical experience in mechanical engineering. Trainees typically work under supervision, assisting with design, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems, and often learn to use tools like CAD software while developing their technical skills. This role serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed professional engineer.

Is 32 too old to become an engineer?

Mechanical engineering trainees can start their careers at any age, including 32, as the field values skills, education, and experience over age. Many engineers pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees later in life, making age less of a barrier to entering the profession.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering roles such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or specialized software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and profit sharing. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often work in high-demand industries or executive-level roles.
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 are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Virginia? For Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Trainee job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,996 per year, or $49 per hour.
TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

CIS Secure

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to learn the TEMPEST skillset and progress to eventual Certified TEMPEST Practitioner (CTP) certification. The CTP Trainee is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, and configuring of all CIS products that require test. Work includes coordinating with production the pickup and drop off of equipment for test. It is expected that this position will grow into a Certified Tempest Professional position through the Tempest Certification process. This requires significant professional development. Qualified candidates will possess strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills, a strong electronic background, experience using DVM, Oscilloscope, hand tools and be self motivated. Active Secret Clearance required. Other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
  • Work under the guidance of CTPII to test products, and learn the proper test techniques to achieve CTPI status through the Tempest Certification process.
  • Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII instructions to ensure proper operation and test requirement are met.
  • Troubleshoots electronics to determine cause and remedy of any malfunction
  • Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and recommend a corrective action.
  • Sets up and tests units to meet specified test requirements.
  • Recognizes failures and set up problems, isolates problems, and takes appropriate action to resolve those problems.
  • Operates oscilloscopes, generators, meters, power supplies, and test fixtures, and understand their use and function.
  • Operates hand tools and small power tools and understands their use and function.
  • Keeps supervisor apprised of all unresolved and/or potential problems that would negatively affect test schedules.
  • Completes and records proper test data sheets and production reports.
  • Provides support to the CTPII and other engineering staff, and works in other departments and/or miscellaneous assignments as instructed.
  • May conduct detailed experimental testing

OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS:
  • This position anticipates mostly standard hours, with some variability based on surge requirements.
  • This position is expected to perform work on-site at the Ashburn headquarters.

TRAVEL:
  • Some limited overnight travel may be required.

Qualifications
CLEARANCE:
  • Active Secret clearance required.

EDUCATION:
  • Training in electronic theory such as one would receive at a technical trade school, military training, an Associate degree program, or 2-3 years of on the job training.

CERTIFICATION(S):
  • None required. Trainee position is designed to work towards attainment of Certified TEMPEST Professional (CTP) level 1 certification.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Must have experience using the following equipment: Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, DVM, hand tools, such as soldering irons, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This job operates in a professional office environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Flexibility related to work hours as project demands arise.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary computer position for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to regularly walk.
  • Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Must be able to talk and hear.
  • Must be able to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Occasionally required to lift and / or move up to 75 pounds, assisted and unassisted.
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, with occasional loud noises associated with a manufacturing environment.

Disclaimer:
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.
Benefits
WHAT WE OFFER:
At CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Services and Darkblade Systems, we believe in promoting fair and transparent pay practices. We are committed to disclosing the compensation range for transparency and to set clear expectations for all applicants for this posting. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base salary for the advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunity. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on various factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, education, geographic location, as well as internal equity, and alignment to market data.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay Range: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year
Benefits:
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Health Savings Account option
  • Flexible Spending
  • Vision insurance
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Ancillary offerings (Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Pet Insurance)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday pay

CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Darkblade Systems, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.

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