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Recent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

ECS

Junior Power Apps Developer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

... recent graduate with hands-on foundational experience in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem (Power BI ... Support the team in migrating and re-engineering legacy forms and workflows (e.g., InfoPath ...

Pennoni

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA

$72K - $100K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity for a recent or upcoming landscape architecture graduate to gain ... Coordinate with civil engineers, planners, surveyors, and other project team members to integrate ...

MBP

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$73K - $87K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a ... As an entry-level Engineer, you will support project teams by serving as an on-site representative ...

Pennoni

Graduate Landscape Architect

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$72K - $100K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity for a recent or upcoming landscape architecture graduate to gain ... Coordinate with civil engineers, planners, surveyors, and other project team members to integrate ...

MBP

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time)

Vienna, VA · On-site

$73K - $87K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a ... As an entry-level Engineer, you will support project teams by serving as an on-site representative ...

MBP

Engineer (Entry-Level) (Full-Time)

Vienna, VA

$73K - $87K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional eager to build a ... As an entry-level Engineer, you will support project teams by serving as an on-site representative ...

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional who is passionate about artificial intelligence, software engineering, and emerging technologies. In this role, you ...

New

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional who is passionate about artificial intelligence, software engineering, and emerging technologies. In this role, you ...

New

Credence

Entry-Level AI Software Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career professional who is passionate about artificial intelligence, software engineering, and emerging technologies. In this role, you ...

New

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsRecent Graduate Engineer JobsRecent Graduate Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Recent Graduate Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$34.5K

$77.7K

$130.8K

How much do recent graduate engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for recent graduate engineer in Washington, DC is $77,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,900.00 and $84,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Recent Graduate Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

Recent Graduate Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recent Graduate Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,715 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Engineer I - Civil Design/Land Development

SOLTESZ

Rockville, MD • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support project teams throughout the planning, design, and permitting process for land development projects.

  • Prepare land development construction plans and supporting documents under the guidance of Project Managers and senior staff.

  • Assist with roadway, utility, and site design for various types of projects.

Job description

Launch Your Civil Engineering Career with Soltesz

Are you looking to build a rewarding career in civil engineering and land development? Soltesz is seeking a motivated Civil Engineer I to join our Rockville, Maryland office.

This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced engineers, planners, surveyors, and landscape architects on a variety of land development projects throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. You'll have the opportunity to develop your technical skills, learn from experienced professionals, and contribute to projects that help shape the communities where we live and work. 

What You'll Do

As a Civil Engineer I, you'll support project teams throughout the planning, design, and permitting process for a variety of site development projects.

Responsibilities include:

  • Preparing land development construction plans and supporting documents under the guidance of Project Managers and senior staff
  • Assisting with roadway, utility, and site design for residential, commercial, mixed-use, and public-sector projects
  • Supporting the preparation of zoning, preliminary, and concept development plans
  • Performing site grading design and drafting, including earthwork analysis and drainage considerations
  • Assisting with erosion and sediment control design, including calculations and best management practices
  • Preparing quantity calculations and supporting construction cost estimates
  • Researching local, state, and federal design standards and agency requirements
  • Assisting with the preparation and processing of plans through reviewing and permitting agencies
  • Collaborating with multidisciplinary project teams to help deliver successful project outcomes 


What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering
  • 0-3 years of civil engineering, site development, or land planning experience
  • Experience with MicroStation and/or AutoCAD
  • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Self-motivated with a willingness to learn and grow professionally
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment
  • Local experience is preferred but not required 

Why Join Soltesz?

At Soltesz, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to providing opportunities for professional growth, technical development, and long-term career advancement.

We offer:

  • Competitive compensation
  • Health and dental benefits
  • 401(k) retirement plan with profit sharing
  • Family-friendly work environment
  • Mentorship from experienced engineering professionals
  • Exposure to a diverse range of projects and clients throughout the region 

Soltesz is a multidisciplinary consulting firm specializing in civil engineering, landscape architecture, land planning, environmental science, and surveying services throughout the Washington metropolitan area. Our commitment to excellence begins with talented, energetic, and client-focused professionals. 

Ready to start your career with a team that is shaping communities throughout the region? We'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your résumé and letter of interest for consideration. 

Soltesz is an Equal Opportunity Employer.