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Senior Design Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Electronics Design Engineer Work Schedule: Onsite - Blacksburg, VA Senior Electronics Design Engineer Moog Space & Defense Group is the operating group with the longest heritage at Moog. Our ...

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Senior Design Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$62.5K

$120.4K

$189.9K

How much do senior design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior design engineer in Virginia is $120,424.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,200.00 and $137,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior design engineer do?

A Senior Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of products, systems, or components, often within engineering or manufacturing industries. They create detailed technical drawings and specifications, oversee project timelines, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure designs meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards. Additionally, they mentor junior engineers, troubleshoot design challenges, and may interact with clients or stakeholders to clarify requirements and present solutions. Their role combines technical expertise, project management, and leadership skills.

How does a senior design engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a product development cycle?

Senior Design Engineers frequently work alongside professionals from manufacturing, quality assurance, project management, and marketing to ensure the successful development and launch of products. They lead design reviews, gather input from other departments, and address technical challenges collaboratively. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to balance design intent with practical constraints such as cost, manufacturability, and regulatory requirements. Regular meetings and iterative feedback loops are a standard part of the process, making teamwork and adaptability essential for success.

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

To thrive as a Senior Design Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, advanced problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's or master's degree in engineering. Proficiency with CAD software, simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer) are typically required. Leadership, effective communication, and project management skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure the delivery of innovative, reliable designs while leading teams and projects to successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Senior Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectSenior Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience in design, possibly professional engineering licenseBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, design experience
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, project management, cross-disciplinary collaborationDesign and development of mechanical components, CAD work, prototype testing
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, aerospace, automotiveManufacturing, product design, machinery development

The main difference is that a Senior Design Engineer typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and may oversee projects, while a Mechanical Design Engineer focuses on creating and testing mechanical components. Both roles require similar technical skills and work in related environments, but the senior position involves more oversight and strategic input.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Design Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Design Engineer job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,424 per year, or $57.9 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Barker Search LLC
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Location: Blacksburg, VA

The team in Space & Defense is expanding and needs a Senior Design Engineer to work onsite.

As a Senior Design Engineer, you will:
  • Be responsible for the system design of complex rotary servo motion assemblies for harsh environments and high reliability applications in military and aerospace markets.
  • Establish concepts and requirements using a variety of engineering disciplines to include mechanical, structural dynamics, electrical, thermal and rotary motion leading to development of integrated electromechanical systems and electromechanical motion systems.
  • Based on fundamental engineering principles, predict the system level performance of candidate approaches and select the optimum approach to specific applications.
  • Lead an integrated product development team to ensure timely and successful project completion.
  • Track the project progress and report program status to senior level management.
  • Understand/interpret customer specifications and requirements.
  • Prepare statements of work and product specifications and be the primary interface with suppliers and customers for all technical aspects of a program.
Required:
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical or aeronautical engineering discipline
  • 5 years of experience in product design and analysis with a preference for precision electromechanical equipment .
  • Experience with mechanical design/packaging, along with excellent electrical and analytical skills.
  • Experience working in team environment
  • Experience using CAD/CAE (UG NX is desirable)
  • Experience in performing motion simulations and knowledge of motion control techniques is preferred.
  • Excellent benefits and collaborative team.
  • Relocation package is available.
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