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Recent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Field Application Engineer '27

Vienna, VA · On-site +1

$53K - $80K/yr

Whether you're a recent graduate or early in your career, this is your opportunity to grow with a global leader in automation and technology. What You'll Do As a Field Application Engineer , you'll ...

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Recent Graduate Engineer information

What is a recent graduate engineer?

Recent graduate engineers are individuals who have recently completed an engineering degree and are beginning their professional careers. They typically have foundational knowledge in their specific engineering discipline, such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. These engineers often start in entry-level positions where they gain practical experience, develop technical skills, and learn workplace protocols. Many employers offer training and mentorship programs to help recent graduates transition smoothly into the workforce.

What are some common challenges recent graduate engineers face during their first year on the job?

Recent graduate engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to real-world project timelines, transitioning from academic theory to practical application, and understanding workplace communication protocols. Navigating team dynamics and learning to balance multiple tasks or projects simultaneously can also be new experiences. Seeking mentorship and actively asking questions can help ease the transition and accelerate professional growth in the early stages of an engineering career.

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

To thrive as a Recent Graduate Engineer, you need a solid grasp of engineering fundamentals, problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, as well as experience with project management tools, is typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability will help you excel in collaborative, fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for effectively contributing to projects, learning quickly on the job, and successfully transitioning from academia to professional engineering practice.

What is the difference between Recent Graduate Engineer vs Entry-Level Engineer?

AspectRecent Graduate EngineerEntry-Level Engineer
QualificationsRecent degree, limited work experienceSame as recent graduate, possibly some internships
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, supervised rolesOperational roles with increasing responsibilities
Industry UsageCommonly used for new graduates entering engineering rolesBroader term for early-career engineers

Recent Graduate Engineer typically refers to individuals who have recently completed their engineering degree and are starting their professional careers, often in training or supervised roles. Entry-Level Engineer is a broader term that includes recent graduates and those with minimal work experience beginning their engineering jobs. Both roles are aimed at early-career professionals, but 'Recent Graduate Engineer' emphasizes the candidate's recent academic completion, while 'Entry-Level Engineer' highlights the job level regardless of graduation timing.

Are recent graduate engineers struggling to find jobs?

Recent graduate engineers often face competitive job markets, especially in fields requiring specialized skills or certifications. Employment prospects can vary based on industry demand, geographic location, and the current economic climate, but gaining practical experience through internships and developing technical skills can improve job prospects.

How to get a job as a recent graduate engineer?

To secure a job as a recent graduate engineer, candidates should build a strong resume highlighting relevant coursework, internships, and technical skills such as CAD or programming. Networking through career fairs, professional organizations, and online platforms like LinkedIn can also improve job prospects. Additionally, obtaining relevant certifications or licenses may enhance employability in certain engineering fields.

What jobs do recent graduate engineers go into?

Recent graduate engineers typically pursue entry-level roles such as design engineer, project engineer, manufacturing engineer, or quality engineer. These positions often require knowledge of engineering principles, technical skills, and sometimes certifications like EIT or FE, and may involve working in industries such as construction, manufacturing, or technology.
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Mechanical Engineer-in-Training (EIT) - New Graduate

Wiley Wilson

Alexandria, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Are you ready to turn your Mechanical Engineering degree into real-world design experience? Wiley|Wilson, a 100% employee-owned architecture and engineering firm, is looking for a new graduate to join our Mechanical Engineering team in our Alexandria, VA office.

As a Mechanical Engineer-in-Training (EIT), you'll work alongside experienced engineers designing HVAC, plumbing, and other mechanical systems for a diverse range of projects and clients. You'll gain hands-on experience across multiple phases of design while building the technical foundation and experience needed to pursue your Professional Engineer (PE) license.

Working under the guidance of licensed Professional Engineers, you'll contribute to real projects from the start. Your work will include developing mechanical plans and designs, performing engineering calculations, applying relevant codes and standards, and preparing and reviewing technical documentation. You'll also assist with field investigations and testing, gaining firsthand experience with how mechanical systems are installed and function in the built environment.

Because our projects bring multiple design disciplines together, you'll collaborate with architects and civil, structural, electrical, and other engineering professionals as you learn how mechanical systems fit into the complete building design.

This is an opportunity to begin your career in an environment where you can learn from experienced professionals, take on increasing responsibility as your skills develop, and build a strong foundation for long-term growth as a Mechanical Engineer.

What we offer:

At Wiley|Wilson, our employees are also owners. Through our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), you'll have a direct stake in the success of the company while building your own career.

We offer a competitive salary, work-from-home flexibility, and a generous benefits package that includes multiple group health insurance options, a 401(k) plan with up to 6% matching, 24 days of paid time off (PTO), five paid holidays per year, 80 hours of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child, tuition reimbursement, and additional benefits and perks.

We support flexibility in how our employees work and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities in roles that require travel.

What we're looking for:

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution
  • Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam passed by the start date
  • Revit experience preferred
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a solid work ethic and eagerness to learn, and the interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.
  • Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States and able to obtain a security clearance

About us:

Wiley|Wilson is a full-service architecture and engineering firm creating innovative and functional design solutions for government, institutional, and private-sector clients around the world. Our diverse mix of projects, generous benefits, and focus on professional growth provide a unique opportunity to build your career alongside experienced professionals across multiple engineering and design disciplines.

As a 100-percent employee-owned company, our 190+ employees share a stake in our success through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Our ownership model, combined with a strong focus on service, professional development, and employee engagement, creates a distinct company culture. Wiley|Wilson has offices in Alexandria, Lynchburg, and Richmond, VA; Raleigh, NC; and Atlanta, GA.

Other:

  • EOE/AAP, Disability/Covered Veteran, Drug Free Workplace
  • A615 Mechanical Engineer-In-Training (EIT)
  • Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Mechanical EIT, Engineer-in-Training, EIT, Entry-Level Engineer, Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer, New Graduate, Recent Graduate, HVAC, HVAC Design, Plumbing, Plumbing Design, Mechanical Systems, Building Systems, MEP, Revit, Engineering Design, Building Design, Government Projects, Federal Projects, PE Track, Professional Engineer, ESOP, Employee-Owned, Hybrid, Work From Home, Alexandria, Arlington, Washington DC, DMV, Virginia