Graduate Designer 2026-2027

Colonial Group; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Colonial Group is seeking a motivated engineer to support design and documentation efforts across mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines in Chantilly, VA.

You will assist with calculations, review shop drawings, engage with project teams, and participate in site visits while building proficiency in Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and MS Office. The role emphasizes collaboration, quality, and ongoing professional growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, fire protection, architectural engineering or related field.
• Willingness to learn and strong technical aptitude.
• FE exam completed or pursuing is a plus.
• Experience with Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and MS Office preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare design and construction documents under supervision.
• Assist with engineering calculations and technical deliverables.
• Support the review of shop drawings for conformance with project requirements.
• Develop proficiency with Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and other design tools.
• Partner with project teams to understand client requirements and project scope.
• Communicate client and architect questions to engineering and design staff.
• Participate in site visits for project observation and professional development.
• Support project coordination and day-to-day team activities.
• Assist with business development and pursuit activities as needed.
• Participate in client, company, and industry events.
• Continuously build industry, technical, and discipline-specific knowledge.
• Research industry trends, products, codes, and standards.
• Seek guidance and actively pursue professional growth opportunities.

Skills

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Technical aptitude

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Fire Protection, Architectural Engineering, or related field

Tools

Revit

Bluebeam Revu

Microsoft Office

Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Design & Documentation

• Prepare design and construction documents under supervision.
• Assist with engineering calculations and technical deliverables.
• Support the review of shop drawings for conformance with project requirements.
• Develop proficiency with Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and other design tools.

Client & Project Support

• Partner with project teams to understand client requirements and project scope.
• Communicate client and architect questions to engineering and design staff.
• Participate in site visits for project observation and professional development.
• Support project coordination and day-to-day team activities.

Business Development

• Assist with business development and pursuit activities as needed.
• Participate in client, company, and industry events.

Learning & Development

• Continuously build industry, technical, and discipline-specific knowledge.
• Research industry trends, products, codes, and standards.
• Seek guidance and actively pursue professional growth opportunities.

Core Competencies

• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Accountability, professionalism, and integrity.
• Commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Collaboration and teamwork.
• Continuous learning and adaptability.
• Technical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Fire Protection, Architectural Engineering, or a related engineering field.
• Strong technical aptitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred

• Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam completed.
• Relevant internship experience.
• Exposure to engineering design fundamentals, industry codes, standards, and design guides.
• Experience with Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and Microsoft Office.

Skills & Requirements

• Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
• Receptive to coaching and constructive feedback.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and discipline-specific engineering software.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Occasional travel (10-15%) may be required.
• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods and communicate effectively in English.

Accepting applications on an ongoing basis.

Pay Transparency

• Denver: $41.25/hr ($85,800 annually)
• Las Vegas: $39.38/hr ($81,910 annually)
• New York: $45.75/hr ($95,160 annually)
• Los Angeles: $43.50/hr ($90,480 annually)
• Washington, D.C.: $43.50/hr ($90,480 annually)