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Sr 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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Sr Design Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$69.9K

$133.4K

$193.3K

How much do sr design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr design engineer in Virginia is $133,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,600.00 and $156,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr Design Engineer?

Sr Design Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for leading the design and development of products, systems, or components within an engineering team. They oversee the design process, ensuring projects meet technical specifications, regulatory standards, and budget constraints. Sr Design Engineers often mentor junior engineers, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and use advanced software tools for modeling and analysis. Their expertise helps drive innovation and ensures the successful delivery of complex engineering projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Design Engineer?

To thrive as a Sr Design Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or electrical engineering, advanced problem-solving skills, and a relevant engineering degree, often with several years of industry experience. Expertise in CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools, and familiarity with manufacturing processes are typically required, along with certifications like PE or Six Sigma being advantageous. Leadership, collaboration, and effective communication are vital soft skills for guiding teams and managing complex projects. These competencies are crucial to ensure innovative, reliable designs that meet technical requirements and project goals.

What are some common challenges faced by Sr Design Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Sr Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing innovative design solutions with cost and manufacturability constraints, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and ensuring effective communication across multidisciplinary teams. To address these challenges, it's important to stay current with industry tools and best practices, regularly collaborate with manufacturing and quality departments, and prioritize clear documentation. Developing strong project management and interpersonal skills can also help streamline workflow and reduce project bottlenecks.

What is the difference between Sr Design Engineer vs Design Engineer?

AspectSr Design EngineerDesign Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, 3+ years experience, possibly professional engineering licenseBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsDesign teams, project-based environments, product development
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, aerospace, automotive, electronicsSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Sr Design Engineer and a Design Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. A Sr Design Engineer typically has more years of experience, takes on complex projects, and may mentor junior staff. In contrast, a Design Engineer is often in an earlier career stage, focusing on executing design tasks under supervision. Both roles are essential in product development, but the Sr Design Engineer plays a leadership role in design innovation and project management.

How much does a senior design engineer get paid?

A senior design engineer's average salary typically ranges from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often have advanced skills in CAD software and engineering principles, which can influence compensation levels.

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

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

Infographic showing various Sr Design Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,423 per year, or $64.1 per hour.

Senior Design Engineer

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

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

Other

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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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