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Recent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Traffic Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$118K - $151K/yr

Whether you're an experienced professional or a recent graduate, you'll have the chance to ... Minimum 8 years of experience in traffic engineering * VDOT, MSHA, MDTA and/or design-build ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site +1

$118K - $151K/yr

Whether you're an experienced professional or a recent graduate, you'll have the chance to ... Minimum 8 years of experience in traffic engineering * VDOT, MSHA, MDTA and/or design-build ...

Intern, LEAD

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Qualifications * Current undergraduate or graduate student, or recent graduate in public ... Experience with event planning, curriculum development, or community programming is a plus.

Showing results 21-40

Recent Graduate Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$31.7K

$71.4K

$120.2K

How much do recent graduate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate engineer in Reston, VA is $71,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,100.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 popular job titles related to Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Recent Graduate Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,386 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Entry Level Environmental Engineer (Water Practice)

ERG

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

ERG is a research and consulting firm that provides a wide range of support to federal, state, and commercial clients. ERG offers multidisciplinary teams with nationally recognized skills in engineering, science, economics, public health, informational technology, and communications. We hire people with the best minds and then provide them with a vibrant and flexible environment in which to develop their careers. The qualified individual must be highly motivated with the skills to prioritize, perform, and communicate effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

ERG is seeking an entry-level Civil/Environmental Engineer to support projects within our Water Practice. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or very early-career professional interested in water resources, water quality, and wastewater management. The selected candidate will provide project-level support across a range of technical and analytical water projects.
Job Description:
  • Provide technical and project support across ERG’s water projects
  • Assist with research, data collection, and analysis related to water resources, water quality, wastewater management, and water and wastewater treatment
  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and project deliverables
  • Analyze water and wastewater treatment needs, treatment performance. and costs
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and project managers to support client objectives
  • Assist with project coordination and administrative tasks that support successful project execution
Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering with a focus on water/wastewater, or a related field
  • 0-1 years of professional experience
  • Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
  • Strong data analysis skills including advanced Excel functions and R
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Academic coursework or research experience related to wastewater, water resources, or water quality
  • Internship or project experience in environmental consulting, water management, or related fields
  • Familiarity with environmental regulations and compliance frameworks related to water programs
ERG offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits, including health and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, educational benefits, FSAs, a generous 401k plan, profit sharing, an EAP, 11-20 paid vacation days per year, 10 paid holidays per year, 56 hours or more of sick leave (based on the state you work in) per year (pro-rated for part-time) and more. The salary range for all positions depends on the years and type of experience. 
  
ERG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable EEOC regulations. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  
   
Please be aware, the only authentic corporate domain for ERG is https://www.erg.com.  ERG may, on occasion, screen applicants via telephone or video interviews via Skype, Teams, GoToMeeting, or another type of video platform. However, any candidate extended a job offer might be asked to meet in person with an ERG employee before providing confidential personal information associated with new employment. 
  
If you’re a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ERG’s online application process as a result of your disability. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources via email at Resumes-Lex@erg.com or call (781) 674-7293. 
  
ERG fosters a friendly, flexible work environment. ERGers are dedicated to serving clients who are committed to making the world a better place. We promote and recognize principles of fairness and respect in the work we do, the partnerships we foster, and the culture we value both within and outside of our organization.