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Trainee Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Overview CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to learn the ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

Overview CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to ... Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and ...

May procure vendor/contract prices for mechanical parts, equipment and tools. Perform other duties ... Massachusetts Properties - Refrigeration Trainee's License (Preferred) DC Properties - DC 6th Class ...

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting ... M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ...

M&J Engineering, D.P.C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting services with ... M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ...

Overview M&J Engineering, D.P.C. (M&J) is a quality provider of multi-discipline consulting ... M&J is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater ...

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Trainee Mechanical Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$18

$34

$57

How much do trainee mechanical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee mechanical engineer in Reston, VA is $34.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.03 and $38.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee mechanical engineer do?

A Trainee Mechanical Engineer assists senior engineers in designing, developing, and testing mechanical devices or systems. They typically work on tasks such as drafting technical drawings, conducting research, performing calculations, and supporting project management activities. The role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training, allowing the trainee to learn industry standards, software tools, and engineering processes. Over time, they may take on more responsibility and complex assignments as they gain expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a Trainee Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid educational background in mechanical engineering or a related field, along with a fundamental understanding of engineering principles. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools (like ANSYS), and basic manufacturing processes is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for successfully contributing to engineering projects and adapting to the demands of a dynamic technical environment.

What are some typical projects or tasks a trainee mechanical engineer might work on during their first year?

As a Trainee Mechanical Engineer, you can expect to be involved in a variety of foundational tasks such as assisting with CAD design, supporting prototype development, and conducting basic testing or analysis under supervision. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers, participate in team meetings, and help document project progress. This hands-on exposure is designed to build your technical skills and understanding of workplace standards, while also giving you the opportunity to contribute to real-world engineering solutions. Over time, you'll gradually take on more responsibility as your experience and confidence grow.

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

AspectTrainee Mechanical EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in mechanical engineeringBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field, often with some experience
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, entry-level tasks, supervised projectsDesign development, CAD modeling, project planning
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning technical skills, supporting projectsCreating and analyzing mechanical designs, preparing technical drawings

While a Trainee Mechanical Engineer is in the early stages of their career, focusing on learning and supporting projects, a Mechanical Design Engineer is more experienced, responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems. Both roles require a background in mechanical engineering, but the Design Engineer role involves more technical expertise and independent work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Trainee Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Trainee Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Mechanical Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,842 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

CIS Secure

Ashburn, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Overview
CIS Secure Computing is seeking a motivated and experienced TEMPEST Engineer Trainee to learn the TEMPEST skillset and progress to eventual Certified TEMPEST Practitioner (CTP) certification. The CTP Trainee is responsible for the installation, troubleshooting, and configuring of all CIS products that require test. Work includes coordinating with production the pickup and drop off of equipment for test. It is expected that this position will grow into a Certified Tempest Professional position through the Tempest Certification process. This requires significant professional development. Qualified candidates will possess strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills, a strong electronic background, experience using DVM, Oscilloscope, hand tools and be self motivated. Active Secret Clearance required. Other duties as assigned.
Responsibilities
  • Work under the guidance of CTPII to test products, and learn the proper test techniques to achieve CTPI status through the Tempest Certification process.
  • Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII instructions to ensure proper operation and test requirement are met.
  • Troubleshoots electronics to determine cause and remedy of any malfunction
  • Work with CTPII to troubleshoot electrical and mechanical problems to determine the cause and recommend a corrective action.
  • Sets up and tests units to meet specified test requirements.
  • Recognizes failures and set up problems, isolates problems, and takes appropriate action to resolve those problems.
  • Operates oscilloscopes, generators, meters, power supplies, and test fixtures, and understand their use and function.
  • Operates hand tools and small power tools and understands their use and function.
  • Keeps supervisor apprised of all unresolved and/or potential problems that would negatively affect test schedules.
  • Completes and records proper test data sheets and production reports.
  • Provides support to the CTPII and other engineering staff, and works in other departments and/or miscellaneous assignments as instructed.
  • May conduct detailed experimental testing

OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS:
  • This position anticipates mostly standard hours, with some variability based on surge requirements.
  • This position is expected to perform work on-site at the Ashburn headquarters.

TRAVEL:
  • Some limited overnight travel may be required.

Qualifications
CLEARANCE:
  • Active Secret clearance required.

EDUCATION:
  • Training in electronic theory such as one would receive at a technical trade school, military training, an Associate degree program, or 2-3 years of on the job training.

CERTIFICATION(S):
  • None required. Trainee position is designed to work towards attainment of Certified TEMPEST Professional (CTP) level 1 certification.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Must have experience using the following equipment: Oscilloscope, Signal Generator, DVM, hand tools, such as soldering irons, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

CERTIFICATION(S):
  • Certified TEMPEST Professional II (CTP-II) certification.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This job operates in a professional office environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Flexibility related to work hours as project demands arise.
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary computer position for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to regularly walk.
  • Must be able to use hands to finger, handle, or feel.
  • Must be able to talk and hear.
  • Must be able to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Occasionally required to lift and / or move up to 75 pounds, assisted and unassisted.
  • Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, with occasional loud noises associated with a manufacturing environment.

Disclaimer:
This job description indicates in general the nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions (as covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act) expected of an incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of an incumbent. An incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.
Benefits
WHAT WE OFFER:
At CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Services and Darkblade Systems, we believe in promoting fair and transparent pay practices. We are committed to disclosing the compensation range for transparency and to set clear expectations for all applicants for this posting. This range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base salary for the advertised job, promotion, or transfer opportunity. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. The actual salary offered may vary based on various factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, education, geographic location, as well as internal equity, and alignment to market data.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay Range: $95,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year
Benefits:
  • 401(k) with company matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Medical insurance
  • Health Savings Account option
  • Flexible Spending
  • Vision insurance
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Ancillary offerings (Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness, Pet Insurance)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday pay

CIS Secure and its associated companies, Intrepid Solutions and Darkblade Systems, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.