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Phd Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters ...

Engineer IV

Herndon, VA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or ...

Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or ...

Master's or PhD degree in a relevant engineering or applied-science field >10 years professional experience including demonstrated success leading large and diverse technical teams in an engineering ...

Digital Design Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$90 - $190/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for engineers who excel at uncovering how systems work (and why), thrive in an ... with PhD or Juris Doctorate in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 9 years ...

DevOps Engineer

Reston, VA · Remote

$200K - $240K/yr

... Engineer to join our team. This role involves hands-on technical expertise while contributing to ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. * TS/SCI with polygraph. * Experience with ...

Acceptable alternative is: (1) a Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.** Confirmation ...

Showing results 41-60

Phd Engineer information

What is a PhD engineer?

A PhD Engineer is an individual who has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in an engineering discipline. This advanced degree signifies deep expertise in a specialized area of engineering, often involving original research and the completion of a dissertation. PhD Engineers typically work in academia, research and development, or advanced industry roles where they contribute to scientific innovation and technological advancements. Their work often includes conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and mentoring students or junior engineers.

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

To thrive as a PhD Engineer, you need advanced expertise in engineering principles, research methodology, and problem-solving, typically supported by a doctoral degree in an engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized technical tools, modeling software, data analysis platforms, and sometimes professional certifications are commonly required. Exceptional analytical thinking, innovation, and strong communication skills set top PhD Engineers apart in collaborative and research-driven environments. These competencies are vital for driving technological advancements, publishing impactful research, and leading complex engineering projects.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a PhD engineer in an industrial setting?

PhD Engineers in industry often start in research and development roles, where they apply their advanced technical expertise to solve complex problems. Over time, they may progress into senior scientist or technical lead positions, and can also transition into management roles such as R&D manager or director. Career growth is often driven by demonstrated innovation, successful project leadership, and strong collaboration skills. Additionally, PhD Engineers frequently have opportunities to shape company strategy, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to patent portfolios.

What is the difference between Phd Engineer vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd EngineerResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD in Engineering or related fieldPhD in relevant scientific discipline
Work EnvironmentIndustry labs, R&D departments, manufacturingAcademic labs, research institutions, industry R&D
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing firms, engineering firmsUniversities, government agencies, private research firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Phd Engineers and Research Scientists hold doctoral degrees and work in research-intensive environments. Phd Engineers typically focus on applied engineering projects within industry, while Research Scientists often work on fundamental scientific research in academic or government settings. The choice depends on whether you prefer industry application or scientific exploration.

Is a Phd engineer useful in engineering?

A PhD engineer brings advanced technical expertise, research skills, and problem-solving abilities to engineering projects. They are often involved in innovation, development, and complex analysis, making them valuable for specialized roles, research positions, and leadership in technical fields.

What jobs can I get with a Phd engineer?

A PhD in engineering qualifies individuals for advanced roles such as research scientist, university professor, R&D engineer, or technical consultant. These positions often require strong analytical skills, expertise in specialized tools or software, and may involve project management or collaboration in innovative environments.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Phd Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Phd Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Quantum Engineer SME

DCS CORPORATION

Springfield, VA • On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

DCS is an employee-owned organization with a reputation for agile and efficient development of technology solutions for U.S. Defense, Aerospace, Human Factors, and Security markets. We continue to provide innovative solutions with our multidisciplinary teams formed with exceptional employees. The DCS Air and Space Technology Sector are seeking a qualified candidate to apply subject matter expertise in the areas of quantum engineering, analysis, and system design of complex programming projects supporting National Agencies.
The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver advanced support for complex GEOINT challenges. This role includes conducting analysis, designing systems, and evaluating performance using both quantum and classical methods.
Essential Job Functions:
Deliver technical expertise and analysis across quantum computing technologies, including quantum machine learning, quantum architectures, and quantum simulation.
Provide functional analysis, system design, integration support, documentation, and strategic advice for exceptionally challenging GEOINT problems requiring specialized knowledge in quantum computing.
Apply principles and methods from quantum machine learning and related quantum computing fields to address highly complex, narrowly scoped technical challenges in engineering and other scientific applications.
Perform trade studies and conduct analyses to evaluate proposed quantum machine learning approaches, review technical reports, assess product-quality impacts, and characterize performance using quantum simulation or related technologies to support verification and quality assurance.
Serve as an SME across topic areas such as R&D in quantum computing, quantum machine learning, classical machine learning, classical computing, and GEOINT data domains.
Required Skills:
Due to the sensitivity of customer related requirements, US citizenship is required.
Must have an active TS/SCI security clearance.
PHD in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline with 10+ years; or a Masters degree with 12+ years experience.
More than 5 years of demonstrated experience supporting quantum computing.
Experience working within the Intelligence Community or related mission areas.
At least 3 years of experience in one or more of the following: Quantum Algorithms, Quantum Machine Learning, Quantum Clouds, quantum simulation tools, PennyLane, Qiskit, or Quantum Encoding.
At least 3 years of experience developing algorithms in one or more areas such as image processing, object detection, image classification, synthetic image generation, anomaly detection, or graph-based routing.
At least 3 years of experience developing algorithms related to GEOINT missions, Electro-Optical imagery, and/or Hyper-Spectral Imagery.
At least 2 years of experience creating briefing materials and technical documentation to translate quantum computing concepts for non-technical audiences.
Desired Skills:
One of the following experience/education combinations:
15 years of experience and a PhD, or
18 years of experience and a MA/MS degree, or
20 years of experience with a BA/BS degree, along with recognition in a discipline relevant to the position.
Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional organizations or academia, as well as relevant publications in reputable media.

DCS logo

About DCS

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DCS Corp is a renowned name in the technology industry, headquartered in Alexandria, VA, US. Found in the late 1970s, DCS Corp provides a broad spectrum of advanced technology, engineering, and analytic solutions for national security clients. The firm specializes in delivering sophisticated systems and technology for land, air, and maritime platforms. They are known for being deeply committed to their mission of enhancing national security.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

Year founded

1977

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