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Computer Architect Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Microsoft

Principal Firmware Architect

Redmond, WA · On-site

We are seeking a Principal Firmware Architect to join the first party silicon firmware team ... Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND ...

REV LLC

Security Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

The Security Architect will ensure technology solutions are designed and implemented with ... Bachelor's degree must include at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of computer science ...

REV LLC

Data Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$80 - $1.1K/hr

The Data Architect will develop data models, define data flows and lineage, establish data ... Bachelor's degree must include at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of computer science ...

REV LLC

Data Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

The Data Architect will develop data models, define data flows and lineage, establish data ... Bachelor's degree must include at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours of computer science ...

Procom Consultants Group

Technical Architect

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$74.75 - $90.25/hr

Technical Architect Job Details Provide strategy and implementation services that enable Operations ... BA/BS degree in engineering, computer science or related field or equivalent education and ...

Vish Consulting IT

Enterprise Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$78.50 - $101.25/hr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 12-20 years of experience in enterprise and solution architecture. * Deep expertise in application ...

Syntricate Technologies

Solution Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$71.75 - $94.50/hr

Required : • Bachelor's degree in computer science/engineering or equivalent. • 10+ years of ... Architect capacity. • Well experienced in the Retail/Supply chain industry, familiar with ...

Cooley

Technology Cyber Security Architect

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, Computer Science ... Cloud Architecture and/or Cloud Security Certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP) * Cloud Security Alliance ...

Microsoft

Principal SOC Modeling Architect

Redmond, WA · On-site

You will drive the architecture and evolution of high-fidelity virtual platforms that enable ... Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND ...

NGA Group Inc

PCF Architect

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70.50 - $93/hr

Company Description • Architect enterprise grade PaaS solution using of Pivotal Cloud Foundry ... S. degree in Computer Science or equivalent

NGA Group Inc

PCF Architect

Redmond, WA

$71 - $92.75/hr

Architect enterprise grade PaaS solution using of Pivotal Cloud Foundry (PCF). Provide technical ... S. degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Viasat, Inc.

Software Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$205K - $307K/yr

... in Computer Science or Computer Engineering; or 10+ years related experience with a Bachelor ... Architecture (One or more) * Experience working with edge devices that have real-time ...

Holland America Line Inc

Data Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125 - $168/hr

The Data Architect is the principal designer and steward of Holland America Line and Seabourn ... Computer Science, Information Technology, or equivalent experience; proficiency and certification ...

Microsoft

Principal Firmware Architect

Redmond, WA · On-site

$188K - $304K/yr

Design through firmware architecture and development. * At the design phase, you will be part of a ... Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsComputer Architect JobsComputer Architect Jobs in Seattle, WA

Computer Architect information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$181.6K

$199.3K

$215.2K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Seattle, WA is $199,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $190,700.00 and $207,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer architect?

Computer Architects are professionals who design and develop the structure and functionality of computer systems, including processors, memory systems, and data pathways. They focus on optimizing performance, energy efficiency, and scalability to meet specific computing needs. Computer Architects often work closely with hardware and software engineers to create innovative computing solutions for industries ranging from consumer electronics to high-performance computing. Their work is critical in shaping the capabilities and efficiency of modern computers.

What does a computer architect do?

A computer architect designs software to enhance a company’s network performance. As a computer architect, you design software, write algorithms, and engineer new systems to improve performance and function goals. Your responsibilities include maintaining data and putting together new components to help the business systems run more efficiently based on the company’s needs. Computer architects may also work with computer hardware, researching, developing, designing, and testing computer equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Architect, you need deep knowledge of computer hardware design, digital logic, and computer organization, usually backed by a degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware description languages (HDLs) like VHDL or Verilog, simulation tools, and performance analysis software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are essential for designing efficient, high-performance computing systems that meet organizational and technological needs.

How does a computer architect typically collaborate with hardware and software teams during a project?

Computer Architects play a crucial role in bridging the gap between hardware and software teams to ensure system designs are both innovative and practical. They regularly participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss requirements, performance goals, and potential design trade-offs. By working closely with hardware engineers, they help define processor specifications and system layouts, while collaborating with software developers to optimize code for the architecture. This collaborative environment allows Computer Architects to influence both the physical hardware and the software that runs on it, ensuring overall system efficiency.

What is the difference between Computer Architect vs Computer Hardware Engineer?

AspectComputer ArchitectComputer Hardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in computer science, computer engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning computer systems, often in R&D or design firmsDeveloping, testing, and manufacturing hardware components in labs or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed in designing new computer architectures for CPUs, GPUs, and systemsUsed in creating physical hardware components like circuit boards, processors, and peripherals

Computer Architects focus on designing the overall structure and architecture of computer systems, while Computer Hardware Engineers work on developing and testing the physical hardware components. Both roles require technical expertise but differ in their focus areas within the computing industry.

Are computer architects in demand?

Computer architects are in high demand due to the growing need for advanced hardware design, system optimization, and integration of emerging technologies like AI and cloud computing. They typically require strong knowledge of hardware description languages, system architecture, and relevant certifications, with employment opportunities available in technology companies, research institutions, and manufacturing sectors.

How much do computer architects make?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and industry. Advanced skills in digital design, knowledge of hardware description languages, and certifications can influence earning potential.

What degree do you need for computer architect?

A computer architect typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with strong knowledge of hardware design, systems architecture, and experience with programming and hardware description languages.
More about Computer Architect jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Computer Architect jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Computer Architect job openings:

Computer Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $199,266 per year, or $95.8 per hour.

Principal Firmware Architect

Microsoft

Redmond, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Microsoft rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Overview
Microsoft Silicon, Cloud Hardware, and Infrastructure Engineering (SCHIE) is the team behind Microsoft's expanding Cloud Infrastructure and responsible for powering Microsoft's "Intelligent Cloud" mission. SCHIE delivers the core infrastructure and foundational technologies for Microsoft's cloud platform, including the hardware and firmware that power Azure at global scale.
We are seeking a Principal Firmware Architect to join the first party silicon firmware team responsible for the firmware that runs in Microsoft Azure custom silicon, including Cobalt and MAIA. In this role, you will define firmware architecture and requirements that align with Azure features, partner closely with silicon and board design teams, and help shape the platform capabilities that enable secure, scalable, and high-performance cloud services.
This role is for an experienced firmware architect who can translate product and Azure service needs into clear firmware requirements, drive technical direction across hardware and firmware boundaries, and influence design decisions from early architecture through validation and release.
Responsibilities
  • Provide firmware requirements and architectural guidance to hardware teams, including silicon design, board design, and platform integration teams.
  • Create firmware architecture and requirements that align with Azure features, service needs, and platform roadmap priorities.
  • Define and maintain firmware subsystem interfaces, dependencies, and design principles for first party silicon programs.
  • Partner with silicon architects, board engineers, and firmware developers to ensure firmware requirements are feasible, testable, and complete.
  • Develop security requirements and threat models for firmware features, platform capabilities, and cross-domain interfaces.
  • Drive architecture reviews and technical decisions for firmware capabilities across boot, platform initialization, manageability, security, telemetry, and recovery flows.
  • Establish requirements for firmware that supports Microsoft Azure custom silicon programs such as Cobalt and MAIA.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure firmware designs support reliability, performance, security, and operational excellence at cloud scale.
  • Influence design tradeoffs early in the product cycle to reduce integration risk and improve long-term firmware maintainability.
  • Support validation planning by defining expected firmware behavior, feature coverage, and acceptance criteria for platform bring-up and release readiness.
  • Diagnose complex architecture and integration issues across silicon, board, and firmware boundaries.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Doctorate in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND 3+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND 6+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field AND 8+ years technical engineering experience
    • OR equivalent experience.

Other Requirements:
  • Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to, the following specialized security screenings:
    • Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong coding experience in C, C++, Rust, or similar low-level programming languages used for firmware and embedded systems.
  • Demonstrated experience defining firmware architecture and requirements for complex hardware platforms.
  • Experience working with silicon design teams, board design teams, or other hardware engineering partners.
  • Experience translating product or cloud service requirements into firmware specifications and technical design decisions.
  • Experience writing, debugging, and reviewing code for boot firmware, embedded runtime, or platform initialization components.
  • Ability to communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences and influence cross-functional partners.
  • Other: Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings: Microsoft Cloud Background Check. This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.
  • 10+ years of experience in firmware, embedded systems, or hardware platform architecture.
  • Experience with Python or other scripting languages used for automation, validation, and tooling.
  • Experience working in pre-silicon environments.
  • Experience with boot firmware, platform initialization, recovery, telemetry, security, and manageability features.
  • Experience with RTOS-based firmware development.
  • Familiarity with hardware interfaces and protocols such as PCIe, I3C, I2C, SPI, and USB.
  • Experience working with Azure service teams and aligning platform firmware to service requirements.
  • Strong understanding of hardware/software co-design and feature bring-up on custom silicon platforms.
  • Experience influencing architecture across multiple engineering teams and product groups.
  • Experience performing low-level debugging, performance analysis, and root cause analysis in code spanning silicon and board boundaries.
  • Experience with firmware validation, platform debugging, and root cause analysis across silicon and board boundaries.
  • Proven ability to operate in ambiguous environments and drive clear technical direction.

Firmware Engineering IC5 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $142,800 - $274,800 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $188,000 - $304,200 per year.
Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay
This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.
Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.

What Microsoft employees say

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About Microsoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our infrastructure is comprised of a large global portfolio of more than 100 datacenters and 1 million servers. Our foundation is built upon and managed by a team of subject matter experts working to support services for more than 1 billion customers and 20 million businesses in over 90 countries worldwide. With environmental sustainability and optimization at the forefront of our datacenter design and operations, we continue to grow and evolve as we meet the ever-changing business demands that hold Microsoft as a world-class cloud provider.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Redmond, WA, US

Year founded

1975

Social media

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