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Professional 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 ... Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional ...

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional ...

Stormwater/Stream Restoration Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$94K - $126K/yr

Collaborating with our experienced Water Professionals, you will support and lead the development ... As a Stormwater/Stream Restoration Engineer, you will evaluate, plan, design, permit, and support ...

INTERDISCIPLINARY

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following: 1. Professional registration or licensure - Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT ...

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA

$86K - $114K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional ...

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional ...

Quantum Engineer SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

The Quantum Engineer SME will provide expert guidance on quantum computing technologies and deliver ... Recognition may include distinctions from federal, national, or international professional ...

Precast Engineer, PE

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

We are Engineered to Serve. Tindall Corporation is a leading Precast Concrete Manufacturer, with locations throughout the Southeastern U.S. Our mission is to support our customers, create remarkable ...

INTERDISCIPLINARY

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$127K/yr

The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following: 1. Professional registration or licensure - Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT ...

Precast Engineer, PE

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

We are Engineered to Serve. Tindall Corporation is a leading Precast Concrete Manufacturer, with locations throughout the Southeastern U.S. Our mission is to support our customers, create remarkable ...

Showing results 21-40

Professional Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$46.1K

$96.2K

$135.3K

How much do professional engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for professional engineer in Virginia is $96,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $109,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional engineer?

Professional Engineers (PEs) are licensed engineers who have met the education, experience, and exam requirements established by their state or country. They are legally authorized to sign off on engineering projects, offer their services to the public, and take responsibility for the safety and integrity of engineering work. Becoming a PE typically involves earning an accredited engineering degree, passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, gaining relevant work experience, and passing the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. The PE license signifies a high standard of competence and ethics in the engineering profession.

What does a professional engineer do?

A professional engineer uses mathematics and science to create safe and efficient buildings, machines, and applications. Engineers typically specialize in a particular field, such as aerospace, mechanical, or structural engineering. Your job duties vary depending on your area of expertise and employer but may include creating plans, designing machinery, or building skyscrapers. This career often involves a combination of office and field work. Frequent travel is an additional job requirement for many professional engineering jobs. Long hours and overtime work are also expected to meet deadlines.

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

To thrive as a Professional Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, problem-solving skills, and a degree in engineering, typically complemented by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or project management tools, along with ongoing continuing education, is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and project management abilities help engineers deliver effective solutions and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills and qualifications ensure engineers can design safe, efficient systems and maintain high professional standards in complex technical environments.

What are some common challenges professional engineers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Professional Engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritizing tasks, coordinating with diverse teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to handle shifting deadlines and resource allocation. Collaborating closely with project managers, clients, and other engineers helps maintain project momentum and quality, while regular progress reviews ensure that no critical detail is overlooked.

What is the difference between Professional Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectProfessional EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsRequires PE license, degree, work experience, examRequires degree, possibly fundamentals exam, but not license
Work EnvironmentDesign, review, sign off on projects, often in consulting or engineering firmsDesign, analysis, manufacturing, and testing in various industries
Industry UsageLicensed in engineering projects, legal responsibilityCommonly employed in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and more

The main difference between a Professional Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer is that the PE is licensed and authorized to sign off on engineering projects, ensuring legal and safety standards are met. Mechanical Engineers typically hold the necessary education and experience but do not have licensing requirements unless they pursue PE licensure. Both roles work closely in engineering fields, but the PE designation signifies a higher level of responsibility and legal accountability.

What can professional engineers do?

Professional engineers design, develop, and evaluate systems, structures, and products across various engineering disciplines. They apply technical knowledge, use tools like CAD software, and often require licensure to approve projects and ensure safety standards are met.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Professional Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Professional Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Professional Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Professional Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Professional Engineer jobs in VA?

For Professional Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Professional Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,231 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

ENGINEER 5

Newport News, VA • On-site

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc.
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$150K - $185K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 148 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes

Full‑Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: Relocation assistance will be available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework

Travel Requirements: Yes, 10%–25% of the time

Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start

Salary Range: $150,000.00 to $185,000.00

The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job‑related factors, and may vary from the posted range

The Role

Newport News Shipbuilding is hiring an Engineer 5 to serve in the role of “Associate Technical Fellow for Submarine Payload Systems”. This position will be within the Future Submarine Design program primarily supporting the SSN(X) next‑generation attack submarine program. Qualified candidates will have an extensive background in engineering leadership of submarine launcher/payload/weapon system projects and a passion for advancements in submarine design. Exceptional leadership ability, judgment, and experience is necessary to succeed in this role.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Support submarine design programs as a subject matter expert in undersea systems, particularly for launcher and payload systems.
  • Act as an imbedded representative of the NNS Chief Engineer’s Office within the Future Submarine Design Program.
  • Provide mentorship/coaching to engineering supervisors, managers, and individual contributors.
  • Represent NNS as a lead in Navy working groups and integrated product teams.
  • Integrate and coordinate efforts between multiple organizations within the Navy, HII, industry and other participating activities.
  • Engage in frequent communication with Navy experts and program managers.
  • Serve as lead NNS representative to customers for major submarine design contracts.
  • Oversee program execution, ensuring near‑term work aligns with long‑term goals.
  • Guide programmatic planning of ship design from concept formulation to sea trials.
  • Bolster critical system prototype development efforts for innovated submarine technologies.
  • Coordinate work ongoing across multiple projects and programs to improve efficiency and knowledge sharing.
Must Have
  • Bachelor’s Degree and 14 years of relevant exempt experience
  • Master’s Degree and 12 years of relevant professional experience
  • Ph.D. and 9 years of experience
  • Newport News Shipbuilding requires a Bachelor's Degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program
Nice to Have
  • Detailed knowledge of submarine launchers and payload systems (torpedoes, missiles, countermeasures, unmanned vehicles).
  • Robust, multidisciplinary background in mechanical engineering and across interfaces with electrical, structural, systems, fluids, shock, and acoustics disciplines.
  • Strong working relationships with NAVSEA Warfare Centers, Program Offices, and Tech Warrant Holders.
  • Understanding of submarine‑specific special emphasis programs (e.g. SUBSAFE).
  • Adept presentation and communication skills, with an ability to coach others.
  • An active SECRET clearance is preferred; the ability to obtain a clearance is required.
  • Frequent travel to Navy and supplier facilities (up to 25%).
  • Knowledge Skills and Ability – Applies advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts. Contributes to the development of new principles and concepts.
  • Problem Solving – Works on unusually complex technical problems and provides solutions which are highly innovative and ingenious.
  • Discretion Latitude – the ability to work under loose direction toward predetermined long‑range goals and objectives. Assignments as well as the course of action necessary to obtain desired results are often self‑initiated or proposed. Work is checked through consultation and review with supervisor.
  • Liaison – Serves as organization spokesperson on advanced projects and/or programs. Acts as advisor to management and customers on advanced technical research studies and applications.

Working at HII is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on‑site health centers, tele‑medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401 K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post‑secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.

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Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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