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Research And Development Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Dupont

Tyvek R&D Mechanical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, empowered R&D organization that leverages deep expertise in materials science, polymer science and engineering, chemistry, and chemical, mechanical ...

Leidos

Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Research & Development Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Leidos

Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Research & Development Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Prescient Edge

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Job Title Senior Mechanical Engineer Location Norfolk, VA 23324 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree Travel ...

Leidos

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Research & Development Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Leidos

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

Research & Development Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Toyon Research Corporation

Mechanical Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

... units, development of drawings and specifications, and troubleshooting operational issues. Job ... Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience ...

Zel Technologies

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Job Summary: The Senior Mechanical Engineer will support the mechanical design, analysis ... research, development, engineering, and operational support to the Department of Defense, the ...

Gromelski & Associates

Mechanical Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$95K - $140K/yr

Integrated Logistics Support, Training Development and Delivery, Multimedia Support, and Technical System Support. Mechanical Engineer Research, plan, design, and develops mechanical and/or ...

Leidos

Principal Mechanical Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

Research & Development Lead or contribute to customer-approved research and development initiatives ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Leidos

Principal Mechanical Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

Research & Development Lead or contribute to customer-approved research and development initiatives ... mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community ...

Luxus

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Mechanical Engineer - Specialized Design Company Name: EKFox Location: Chantilly, VA Project Focus ... Mission-Critical Infrastructure, Secure Facilities, R&D, and Specialized HVAC Work Setting: In ...

The Lycra Company LLC

Research Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$104K - $118K/yr

Role : Applications Research Engineer specializing in extrusion processes, mechanical testing, prototype development, customer/application evaluation, and commercialization support. We offer ...

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going ...

Psionic, LLC

Mechanical Engineer

Hampton, VA · On-site

Projects span lab demonstrations, field measurement campaigns, prototype development, and ... requirements, researching manufacturing and assembly methods, evaluating materials, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch And Development Mechanical Engineer JobsResearch And Development Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Research And Development Mechanical Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$71.4K

$111.2K

$139.8K

How much do research and development mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for research and development mechanical engineer in Virginia is $111,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,100.00 and $125,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Research And Development Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectResearch And Development Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentLabs, R&D departments, innovation-focused settingsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, product development teams
Industry UsageResearch institutions, product innovation, prototype developmentProduct design, manufacturing, engineering firms

Research And Development Mechanical Engineers focus on creating new products and improving existing ones through experimentation and innovation. Mechanical Design Engineers primarily work on designing and developing mechanical components and systems for manufacturing. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, their work environments and objectives differ significantly, with R&D engineers emphasizing innovation and prototyping, and design engineers focusing on detailed product development.

What does a research and development mechanical engineer do?

A Research and Development (R&D) Mechanical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new mechanical devices or systems. They use engineering principles to create prototypes, improve existing products, and solve technical challenges. Their work often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, conducting experiments, and analyzing data to enhance product performance and efficiency. R&D Mechanical Engineers play a key role in driving innovation within industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.

What are some common challenges faced by research and development mechanical engineers during the product development cycle?

Research and Development Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative designs with manufacturability and cost constraints, meeting tight project deadlines, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. They may also need to iterate prototypes quickly based on feedback from cross-functional teams, including design, testing, and manufacturing. Collaboration and effective communication are essential for addressing unexpected technical issues and integrating new technologies into existing systems.

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

To thrive as a Research and Development Mechanical Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering principles, problem-solving abilities, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools (like ANSYS), and knowledge of prototyping and testing methodologies are essential. Creativity, effective communication, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for innovating and collaborating on complex projects. These skills and qualities enable engineers to develop innovative solutions, improve products, and maintain a competitive edge in technology-driven industries.
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Infographic showing various Research And Development Mechanical Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,237 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Tyvek® R&D Mechanical Engineer

DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

DuPont rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

At DuPont, our purpose is to empower the world with essential innovations to thrive. We work on things that matter. Whether it's providing clean water to more than a billion people on the planet, producing materials that are essential in everyday technology devices from smartphones to electric vehicles, or protecting workers around the world. Discover the many reasons the world's most talented people are choosing to work at DuPont. Why Join Us | DuPont Careers
As part of our Tyvek® growth strategy, we are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to help advance flash-spinning technology and drive the development and commercialization of innovative new products.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, empowered R&D organization that leverages deep expertise in materials science, polymer science and engineering, chemistry, and chemical, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Our team works in a highly collaborative and diverse environment with a mission to develop nonwoven membrane solutions that protect people, property, and critical products and processes from the hazards that threaten them.
Primary Responsibilities:
Within Tyvek® R&D, we develop new products for emerging and existing markets, enhance manufacturing processes, and advance next-generation technology platforms. Successful R&D Engineers define, lead, and execute technical programs focused on product and process technology development, applying strong scientific and engineering fundamentals to solve complex challenges.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and execute product and process R&D programs from concept through implementation.
  • Design and conduct laboratory, experimental, and modeling studies, translating results into actionable technical and business insights.
  • Manage project plans, timelines, and cross-functional testing and implementation activities to ensure successful program execution.
  • Communicate technical strategies, progress, findings, and recommendations to key stakeholders.
  • Collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, including both technical and non-technical functions.
  • Partner with scientists and engineers to scale innovative technologies from development through commercial manufacturing.
  • Engage external consultants, suppliers, and partners to efficiently advance project objectives when needed.
  • Prepare clear, concise technical reports, presentations, and recommendations to support decision-making.
  • Drive intellectual property development through competitive landscape assessments, invention identification, and patent generation opportunities.

Qualifications:
  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline with relevant experience
  • Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles related to equipment design, process development, or process optimization
  • Solid knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
  • Strong analytical, strategic, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication, collaboration, influencing, and networking skills.
  • Ability to build effective partnerships across functions and disciplines.
  • Self-motivated and adaptable in a dynamic environment.
  • Fluent in English
  • Ability to travel up to 25%

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of professional experience strongly preferred
  • Experience with 3D CAD tools preferred
  • Experience with data analysis, visualization, and large data sets is a plus
  • Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) and/or computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a plus
  • Experience with polymer processing and/or web-handling equipment is a plus

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DuPont is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to search or apply for a position, please visit our Accessibility Page for Contact Information.
DuPont offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.

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