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Model Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Model Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$31

$66

How much do model engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for model engineering in Virginia is $31.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $38.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Model Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Model Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, precision fabrication, and often a relevant engineering degree or technical training. Familiarity with CAD software, CNC machines, lathes, and other fabrication tools is typically required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong problem-solving skills help set outstanding model engineers apart. These skills ensure that accurate, functional, and high-quality models or prototypes are produced efficiently and safely.

What are some typical challenges faced by model engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Model engineers often work closely with data scientists, product managers, and software engineers to develop and deploy machine learning models. A common challenge is ensuring clear communication across teams with different technical backgrounds, especially when translating complex model requirements into actionable development tasks. Additionally, balancing accuracy and performance with business needs can be demanding, requiring model engineers to find practical solutions that align with project goals. Regular meetings and thorough documentation are essential to streamline collaboration and overcome these hurdles.

What is model engineering?

Model engineering is the discipline of designing, building, and testing scale models of machines, engines, and mechanical systems, often as a hobby or for educational purposes. It involves applying engineering principles to create functional replicas, usually of steam engines, locomotives, or other mechanical devices. Model engineers use skills in machining, metalworking, and problem-solving to bring detailed plans to life. The field combines creativity, craftsmanship, and technical knowledge, and is popular among enthusiasts who enjoy both the process and the finished models.

What does a model engineer do?

A model engineer designs, builds, and maintains detailed scale models, often for engineering, architectural, or educational purposes. They work with tools like lathes, mills, and 3D modeling software, and typically require technical skills and precision to create accurate representations. Model engineers may also perform repairs and modifications to existing models and often work in workshops or laboratories.

What is the difference between Model Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectModel EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training or certifications in model making and designRequires a bachelor's degree or higher in mechanical engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentHobbyist workshops, small-scale manufacturing, or specialized model shopsIndustrial facilities, engineering firms, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageUsed in hobbyist communities, model railroads, and small-scale prototypesApplied across various industries including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing

Model Engineering focuses on creating detailed, small-scale models often as a hobby or for prototypes, requiring specialized skills and certifications. Mechanical Engineering covers a broad range of industrial applications, involving design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems. While both involve mechanical principles, Model Engineering is more specialized and hobby-oriented, whereas Mechanical Engineering is a comprehensive, industry-wide profession.

What are popular job titles related to Model Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Model Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Model Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Model Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Model-Based Systems Engineer (MBSE)

Model-Based Systems Engineer (MBSE)

Stratos Solutions

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Model-Based Systems Engineer (MBSE)
Target Labor Category: Junior
Position Location: Chantilly, VA (Customer Site)
Clearance Required: TS/SCI with Polygraph
Position Overview
Stratos Solutions has an opportunity for a Model-Based Systems Engineer (MBSE) to support an Intelligence Community (IC) Space customer in Chantilly, VA. The selected candidate will operate in a collaborative engineering environment developing and maintaining digital engineering artifacts and MBSE models for space and space-related systems.
This role supports mission-focused modeling, simulation, and technical analysis efforts delivering actionable engineering insight and decision support to senior stakeholders. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of system architectures, digital thread capabilities, and federated model frameworks that enhance technical rigor and mission understanding across satellite and ground system domains.
If you are passionate about advancing digital engineering practices and applying MBSE to complex space systems, we encourage you to apply.
About Stratos Solutions
Stratos Solutions delivers mission-focused engineering, acquisition, and operations support to the Intelligence Community and national security space enterprise. As an employee-owned company, Stratos combines technical excellence, operational agility, and a deep commitment to customer mission success. Our teams work at the forefront of space and intelligence innovation supporting programs critical to national security.
Responsibilities
The Model-Based Systems Engineer will support the development, integration, and sustainment of MBSE models and digital engineering capabilities for space and space-related mission systems.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
MBSE Model Development & Sustainment
  • Support development and maintenance of MBSE models across satellite and ground system domains.
  • Contribute to modeling of system architectures, interfaces, data flows, verification methods, and requirements traceability.
  • Implement configuration management practices within federated modeling environments.
  • Run model validation suites and ensure compliance with established modeling standards and style guides.
Digital Engineering & Tool Integration
  • Integrate MBSE models with other systems engineering lifecycle tools and datasets to support digital thread implementation.
  • Support linkage of requirements, architecture, verification, and test artifacts within a model-based environment.
  • Assist in integrating Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (MS&A) data sets with MBSE artifacts to support technical analysis and decision-making.
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Participate in collaborative model working groups with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Assist in training new MBSE practitioners on modeling tools, processes, and digital engineering methods.
  • Support development and delivery of technical briefings and live demonstrations for senior government stakeholders.
  • Present modeling results and technical findings to internal and external customers.
Required Qualifications
Education & Clearance
  • Bachelor's Degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field
    (Relevant experience may substitute for degree requirements)
  • Active TS/SCI with Polygraph
Technical & Functional Skills
  • 3+ years of experience developing and maintaining MBSE models
  • Experience applying MBSE to space, satellite, ground, or complex mission systems
  • Familiarity with SysML and MBSE modeling tools (e.g., Cameo, MagicDraw, or similar)
  • Understanding of systems engineering lifecycle processes
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to present technical findings to internal and external stakeholders
Desired Skills / Qualifications
  • Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics)
  • Experience across multiple systems engineering disciplines including:
    • Architecture development
    • Requirements engineering
    • Integration and test
    • Risk management
    • Technical project coordination
  • Experience implementing Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) domains and modeling language
  • Experience modeling cybersecurity requirements, controls, and architectures
  • Experience integrating Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (MS&A) datasets with MBSE artifacts
  • Familiarity with digital engineering initiatives within the IC or DoD space enterprise