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Mechanical Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Mechanical Systems Engineering

Forest, VA

$80K - $149K/yr

Mechanical Systems Engineer Job Code: 41934 Job Location: Forest, VA Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked, and have every other Friday off The ...

New

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance ... The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support ...

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 25% of the time Minimum Clearance ... The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support ...

Intuitive

Systems Engineer

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Design and characterize electro-mechanical assemblies including sensors, actuators, and drive ... Systems Engineering, or a similar field related to software, electronics, robotics, or electro ...

Intuitive

Systems Engineer

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Design and characterize electro-mechanical assemblies including sensors, actuators, and drive ... Systems Engineering, or a similar field related to software, electronics, robotics, or electro ...

Intrepidgs

Mechanical Engineer

Mclean, VA

Design, develop, and analyze mechanical systems, components, and assemblies in support of intelligence and national security missions. * Conduct engineering assessments, failure analyses, and ...

Liebherr

Systems Engineering Lead

Newport News, VA · On-site

The Systems Engineer Lead is responsible for leading the technical aspects of research, development, design, and validation of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic hardware and associated control ...

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All JobsMechanical Systems Engineer JobsMechanical Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Mechanical Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$63K

$109.4K

$150.7K

How much do mechanical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical systems engineer in Virginia is $109,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,800.00 and $130,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Systems Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of engineering principles, and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (like SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and relevant certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are typically essential. Effective problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure the design, implementation, and maintenance of efficient mechanical systems that meet technical and safety standards.

What are common challenges faced by mechanical systems engineers when working on interdisciplinary projects?

Mechanical Systems Engineers often collaborate with electrical, software, and civil engineering teams on complex projects. One common challenge is ensuring seamless integration between mechanical components and other system elements, which requires strong communication and coordination skills. Additionally, managing conflicting requirements and timelines between disciplines can be demanding, so flexibility and problem-solving abilities are crucial. Embracing cross-functional teamwork and staying adaptable helps Mechanical Systems Engineers navigate these challenges effectively.

What does a mechanical systems engineer do?

A Mechanical Systems Engineer designs, analyzes, and maintains mechanical systems and components, such as engines, HVAC systems, or manufacturing equipment. They ensure that systems perform efficiently, safely, and reliably by applying principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. Their work often involves creating technical drawings, conducting simulations, selecting materials, and collaborating with other engineers and stakeholders. Mechanical Systems Engineers play a key role in troubleshooting issues, improving existing designs, and overseeing the installation and testing of mechanical systems.

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

AspectMechanical Systems EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusIntegrating and optimizing entire mechanical systems, including components and subsystemsCreating detailed mechanical component and product designs
Work EnvironmentSystems integration, testing, and validation in manufacturing or engineering firmsDesign studios, CAD modeling, and prototype development
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often certifications in systems engineeringBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; proficiency in CAD software

Mechanical Systems Engineers focus on the overall integration and performance of mechanical systems, while Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on developing specific components and parts. Both roles require a strong engineering background and often overlap in skills, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and application.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in VA? For Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Mechanical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,359 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Mechanical Systems Engineer - JobID-0219

Innovative Defense Technologies

Arlington, VA • On-site

$114K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Mechanical Systems Engineer - JobID-0219
Department: Engineering
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Arlington, VA
Compensation: $114,000 - $231,000 / year
Description
About The Role:
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer - Compute Infrastructure & Integration to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer for IDT's HCI, tactical compute and data-center modernization efforts. This position supports the design, integration, and sustainment of advanced computing, networking, and mission systems deployed in defense environments. This role combines traditional mechanical engineering principles with systems engineering methodologies to ensure hardware platforms, infrastructure components, and integrated solutions meet performance, thermal, reliability, and operational requirements.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design, thermal management, systems integration, and technical architecture development. This individual will work closely with software, network, electrical, cybersecurity, and systems engineering teams to develop and deploy mission-critical solutions for Department of Defense customers.
Clearance & Location Requirements:
  • All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
  • This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 3 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

Key Responsibilities
What You Will Do:
  • Design and develop mechanical solutions supporting computing infrastructure, networked systems, ruggedized hardware, and mission systems.
  • Create and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings for system enclosures, racks, mounts, cooling solutions, and integrated hardware platforms.
  • Perform thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, airflow evaluations, and cooling assessments for high-performance computing and electronic systems.
  • Support system architecture development through the creation and interpretation of Unified Data Architecture (UDA) diagrams, interface control documents, data flow diagrams, and system integration artifacts.
  • Collaborate with systems engineers to define hardware, infrastructure, environmental, and operational requirements.
  • Participate in requirements decomposition, trade studies, system modeling, and architecture development activities.
  • Support the integration of computing, networking, storage, and mission systems into customer environments.
  • Analyze system performance, identify technical risks, and recommend engineering solutions to improve reliability, maintainability, and scalability.
  • Support engineering reviews, integration events, testing activities, and customer demonstrations.
  • Develop technical documentation, engineering reports, installation guides, and design packages.
  • Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure successful implementation of integrated hardware and software solutions.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Who You Are (Required):
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, related engineering discipline, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
  • 5+ years of engineering experience supporting complex technical systems.
  • Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, or equivalent.
  • Experience performing thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, and cooling system evaluations.
  • Experience supporting systems engineering activities, including requirements development, architecture definition, and integration planning.
  • Ability to interpret and develop technical diagrams including UDA diagrams, system architecture diagrams, interface diagrams, and engineering workflows.
  • Understanding of data center infrastructure, computing hardware, networking equipment, or mission system architectures.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed

What Makes You Stand Out:
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition programs.
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies and tools.
  • Experience with Cameo, MagicDraw, Enterprise Architect, or similar systems modeling tools.
  • Experience integrating servers, storage systems, networking equipment, or hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) solutions.
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermal modeling, or environmental testing.
  • Familiarity with open architecture initiatives such as SOSA, CMOSS, FACE, and MOSA.
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity requirements and secure infrastructure design.
  • Experience supporting system-level integration, test, and evaluation activities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced engineering environment.
  • Commitment to engineering excellence, quality, and mission success.
  • Ability to operate effectively between traditional engineering disciplines and IT-focused technical teams.
  • Strong systems-thinking mindset with the ability to understand interactions between hardware, software, networking, and operational requirements.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to engineering leadership, program management, and customers.
  • Experience working in fast-paced development and integration environments.
  • 5+ years of compliance, risk management, or related experience within the defense or government contracting industry
  • Experience with:
    • Ruggedized compute platforms
    • Electronics packaging
    • Thermal management of high-performance processing systems
    • C5ISR systems integration
    • Open architecture frameworks (CMOSS, SOSA, FACE, etc.) if applicable to your program portfolio

If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.
Pay Range*: $114,000 - $184,000 or $135,000 - $231,000
This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate's experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.
Job Benefits
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):
IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:
  • Generous benefits package
  • Competitive PTO
  • Paid holidays
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
  • 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
  • Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
  • Professional Development Resources
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
  • Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards
  • Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.

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