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Chip Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$67/hr

Understanding of System-On-Chip (SoC) design with embedded processor on FPGA * Ability to perform application programming on embedded processor is a plus * Identifies opportunities to apply AI for ...

Geologics

Digital Design Engineer

Manassas, VA

$67/hr

Understanding of System-On-Chip (SoC) design with embedded processor on FPGA * Ability to perform application programming on embedded processor is a plus * Identifies opportunities to apply AI for ...

CRDF Global

Emerging Technology Experts

Arlington, VA · On-site

Microelectronics & Semiconductors Chip design (EDA tools), lithography, fabrication, packaging and assembly/test, semiconductor supply chain integrity. Other Priority Dual-Use Sectors Neuroscience ...

Solutions3 LLC

Electrical Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Lead technical design and setup of Chip-Off Forensics Lab infrastructure at government facility * Provide expert guidance on chip extraction, PCB analysis, and hardware-level forensics * Develop and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsChip Design JobsChip Design Jobs in Virginia

Chip Design information

See Virginia salary details

$41.6K

$113.5K

$199.8K

How much do chip design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for chip design in Virginia is $113,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $142,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chip Design position, and why are they important?

To excel in Chip Design, a strong background in electrical engineering, digital and analog circuit design, and semiconductor physics is typically required, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with electronic design automation (EDA) tools like Cadence, Synopsys, and Mentor Graphics, as well as proficiency in hardware description languages (HDLs) such as Verilog or VHDL, are standard prerequisites. Outstanding problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing efficient, reliable integrated circuits and meeting the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry.

What are the typical career progression opportunities in a Chip Design role?

Chip Design offers a clear pathway for career growth, starting from entry-level positions such as Design Engineer or Verification Engineer and progressing to roles like Lead Designer, Project Manager, or Technical Architect. As you gain experience and demonstrate expertise, opportunities often open up in specialized areas such as physical design, timing analysis, or system architecture. Many professionals also advance to leadership or managerial positions, overseeing teams or entire design projects. Additionally, working in such a fast-evolving field keeps you engaged with the latest technologies and can provide options to transition into adjacent areas like product management or application engineering.

Is chip design a good career?

Chip design is a specialized field within electronics engineering focused on creating integrated circuits and microchips. It offers high demand, competitive salaries, and opportunities to work with advanced technology, but requires strong skills in electronics, programming, and often a relevant degree or certification. Career growth depends on industry trends and individual expertise in areas like VLSI design and CAD tools.

How do you become a chip designer?

To become a chip designer, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field, along with strong skills in digital logic, circuit design, and hardware description languages like VHDL or Verilog. Gaining experience through internships, developing proficiency with CAD tools, and staying updated on industry standards are also important steps in pursuing a career in chip design.

What is a Chip Design job?

A Chip Design job involves creating and developing semiconductor circuits used in electronic devices. Engineers in this field work on designing, verifying, and testing integrated circuits (ICs) to ensure performance, power efficiency, and reliability. They use specialized software tools for designing hardware and optimizing functionality. Chip designers collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new processors, memory chips, or custom ASICs from concept to production. This role is crucial in industries like computing, telecommunications, and consumer electronics.

How much do chip designers make?

Chip designers, also known as integrated circuit designers, typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in hardware description languages and CAD tools can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $200,000.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior chip design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in hardware description languages, and expertise in complex integrated circuit development can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost living areas or within leading technology companies. Such roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of successful project delivery.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chip Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Chip Design jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Chip Design jobs in Virginia? For Chip Design jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chip Design jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Chip Design jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Chip Design jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Chip Design job openings:
Chip Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chip Design job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 49% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 17% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $113,509 per year, or $54.6 per hour.
Associate (Technical Specialist, Patent Agent or Patent Attorney)

Associate (Technical Specialist, Patent Agent or Patent Attorney)

Hauptman Ham, LLP

Alexandria, VA

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Hauptman Ham, LLP is an intellectual property law firm located in Northern Virginia with a 50-year legacy of commitment to delivering high-quality counsel world-wide. The Firm seeks qualified candidates with industry/legal experience for its rapidly expanding patent prosecution practice. 

Hauptman Ham works with industry leaders in the semiconductor manufacturing, telecommunication and circuit design fields. You will be entrusted to work directly with clients and to execute all facets of patent drafting and prosecution. In addition, a senior level Patent Professional or Partner will support you to execute your responsibilities and in your professional development. The ideal candidate has experience in the semiconductor field including chip design, circuit design, circuit layouts and/or chip architecture.  The position is open to registered Patent Attorneys/Agents as well as Technical Specialists with at least a bachelor's degree; and at least two years of experience in patent prosecution including drafting at least 20 US patent applications. Capability in semiconductors and circuit technology is a must. Versatility in other technical areas is a plus.

Duties may include but are not limited to:

  • Drafting patent applications based on invention disclosures;
  • Conducting inventor interviews;
  • Communicating with clients;
  • Reviewing and analyzing Office Actions;
  • Drafting Amendments/Responses for responding to Office Actions;
  • Accepting feedback from supervising Associates and Partners; and
  • Timely communication and completion of assigned tasks.

Education Requirements: BA/BS required, Electrical Engineering or Chemical Engineering Degree Preferred

Minimum Experience: Candidates will preferably be capable of independently drafting patent applications and responding to office actions consistent with at least 2 year's experience in the semiconductor field or in the patent field working with semiconductor technologies. The key attributes of a successful candidate for this position are knowledge, understanding, ability to further learn the technology, attention to detail and outstanding writing ability.

Special Skills and Knowledge: Mandarin speaking language capability is a plus. 

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