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Phd Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Suitland, MD · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Description Varen, an SAIC company is seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to join our team ... PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience. * Active TS/SCI with polygraph. Target salary ...

Database Engineer IV

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180 - $230/hr

Database engineering and management activities associated with high volume, multi-format data ... OR A PhD with no experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a ...

New

Database Engineer IV

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180K - $230K/yr

Job Duties: • Database engineering and management activities associated with high volume, multi ... OR A PhD with no experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a ...

Senior DevOps Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

S. citizenship is a government requirement * BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with relevant experience depending on degree (BS +5 ...

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.
Infographic showing various Phd Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Senior Principal Database Engineer 114-007

IC-CAP LLC

Herndon, VA • On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Senior Principal Database Engineer:
The selected candidate will work within a cross-functional Scrum team with experience supporting data management processes, database engineering and management; designing, developing, maintaining, and enhancing database systems
Job Duties:
  • Database engineering and management activities associated with high volume, multi-format data management services.
  • Designs large-scale data management solutions including developing efficient storage, indexing, and access approaches.
  • Updates data enterprise architecture models (if needed) and data abstraction layer to enable access to new data sources.
  • Designs and implements indexing strategies for ingested data.
  • Designs and implements storage and indexing strategies across the multiple repositories to provide efficient storage and retrieval.
  • Supports design and development of data access APIs.

Basic Qualifications:
  • DoD Approved Clearance and Poly
  • Experience with Postgres, SQL, PL/pgSQL.
  • Experience installing application software in an operational environment.
  • Experience with Agile, AWS, RDBMS technology, Elasticsearch, Linux.
  • Security+
  • DoD Approved Clearance and Poly

Preferred:
  • Knowledge of data modeling, Cameo
  • Familiarity with NoSQL technology (Hadoop and/or EMR)
  • CentOS System Administration
  • Linux

Education and Experience:
Staff (Level 5):
  • 14+ Years with BS
  • 12+ Years with Masters
  • 9+ Years with PhD
  • + additional 4 yrs without degree

Senior Principal (Level 4):
  • 9+ Years with BS
  • 7+ Years with Masters
  • 4+ Years with PhD
  • + additional 4 yrs without degree

Principal (Level 3):
  • 5+ Years with BS
  • 3+ Years with Masters
  • 0 Years with PhD
  • + additional 4 yrs without degree

Associate (Level 2):
  • 2+ Years with BS
  • 0 Years with Masters
  • + additional 4 yrs without degree