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Project Engineer Trainee Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

Harkins Builders

Superintendent 1

Hampton, VA · On-site

Responsible for the supervision of assigned project engineers, assistant superintendents, trainees, and direct labor, while creating a challenging and rewarding environment for professional growth.

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All JobsProject Engineer JobsProject Engineer Trainee JobsProject Engineer Trainee Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

Project Engineer Trainee information

See Virginia Beach, VA salary details

$42.7K

$86K

$129.1K

How much do project engineer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for project engineer trainee in Virginia Beach, VA is $86,023.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $98,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a project engineer trainee do?

A Project Engineer Trainee assists senior engineers and project managers in planning, coordinating, and executing engineering projects. Their responsibilities often include preparing technical documents, performing site inspections, supporting project scheduling, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This entry-level role provides hands-on experience and training in project management, engineering principles, and teamwork within various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure. The position is designed to help trainees develop practical skills and knowledge required for advancement to more senior engineering roles.

What is the difference between Project Engineer Trainee vs Project Engineer?

AspectProject Engineer TraineeProject Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree; may have certifications like PMP or engineering licensesCompleted degree; often holds professional engineering license or certification
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, internships, or entry-level roles in construction or engineering projectsFull-time roles managing project phases, coordinating teams, and overseeing execution
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning project processes, supporting documentationPlanning, executing, and monitoring projects, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met

The main difference is that a Project Engineer Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting project tasks, while a Project Engineer is a fully responsible professional managing project execution independently.

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

To thrive as a Project Engineer Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, a relevant degree (such as in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering), and strong analytical skills. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and basic knowledge of industry standards is often required. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are vital soft skills for success in this entry-level role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting project delivery, ensuring technical accuracy, and building a strong foundation for a future engineering career.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a project engineer trainee?

As a Project Engineer Trainee, your daily tasks often include assisting with project planning, coordinating with contractors or vendors, preparing documentation, and tracking project progress against timelines. You'll likely attend team meetings, help resolve technical issues, and support senior engineers with data collection and report generation. These activities provide hands-on experience with the project lifecycle while ensuring that deliverables stay on schedule and meet quality standards. Your contributions help the team identify bottlenecks early and maintain effective communication among stakeholders.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA? The most popular types of Project Engineer jobs in Virginia Beach, VA are:
What cities near Virginia Beach, VA are hiring for Project Engineer Trainee jobs? Cities near Virginia Beach, VA with the most Project Engineer Trainee job openings:
Project Engineer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Engineer Trainee job openings in Virginia Beach, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,023 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Transportation Construction Inspector (All levels - Hampton Roads District)

ATCS

Newport News, VA • On-site

$17 - $41.97/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

ATCS's Construction Services group is expanding in Virginia! We are looking for individuals with VA construction management and inspection experience that have or are able to obtain necessary VDOT certifications.
We're open to candidates with varying levels of experience - Inspectors, Trainees, Senior Inspectors to join our team in the Hampton Roads area!
Duties:
  • Perform transportation construction inspections on Highway, Bridges, Environmental, Traffic, and Facilities type projects
  • Write daily progress reports
  • Oversight of contractor work crews to ensure compliance with contract documents, reading and interpretation of contract documents to verify that safe construction practices are being utilized to produce quality results
  • Perform field test on materials (concrete slump/air, soil compaction, and HMA)
  • Complete documentation of materials, labor compliance, safety, processing estimates, work orders, and adjustments
  • Report on-site activities and daily progress to the Project Engineer via standardized reporting, responsible for calculation and determination of pay quantities

Requirements:
  • Varying levels of contractor or inspection experience in roadway construction with VDOT desired desired:
    • 0-3 years for Inspection Trainee candidates
    • 3-6 years of experience for Inspector candidates
    • 6+ years of experience for Senior Inspector candidates
  • Knowledgeable in VDOT Road and Bridges specifications and standards.
  • OSHA safety requirements on road and bridge construction sites.
  • Knowledge of mathematics to include algebra, geometry and trigonometry.
  • Skill in the use of field engineering and testing equipment, inspection methods and materials.
  • Possession of or ability to obtain required certifications within 12 months of employment and maintain
    • Work Zone Traffic Control
    • Asphalt Concrete Field
    • ACI Hydraulic Cement Concrete Field
    • Soils and Aggregate Compaction
    • Nuclear Safety and Transportation
    • Pavement Marking and Guardrail Installation
    • Storm Water Inspection
    • DEQ Erosion and Sediment Control Inspection
    • OSHA Safety training courses
    • Flagging
  • Valid Drivers' License
  • Proficiency in MS Office, SiteManager, PlanGrid and other project management software

Our employees are the most critical part of ATCS. For this position, we offer a competitive salary range of $17.00 to $41.97 per hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The role is also eligible for overtime and an annual bonus, with a target 2% of the employee's annualized salary. . In addition to compensation, ATCS offers outstanding, employee-focused benefits for you and your family. Full-time employees are eligible for benefits coverage on the first day of the month following their start date. Including, but not limited to: generous personal PTO, inclusive holiday PTO, community involvement PTO, highly customizable medical plan options, excellent dental & vision plans, 401K match up to 3% with immediate vesting, parental leave, STD & LTD, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program and more.
ATCS, PLC is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. ATCS, PLC is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Caitlin Crockett, MBA, SPHR at ccrockett@atcsplc.com.

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