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Computer Architect Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

QBID Quantum Computing SME

Arlington, VA · On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

PhD in a relevant hard science or engineering discipline (e.g., Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science). * Demonstrated expertise in quantum computing. * Demonstrated ...

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All JobsComputer Architect JobsComputer Architect Jobs in Washington, DC

Computer Architect information

See Washington, DC salary details

$180.6K

$198.1K

$214K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Washington, DC is $198,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $189,600.00 and $206,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How much does a computer architect earn?

Computer architects, also known as hardware architects or system architects, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals with specialized skills in designing complex computer systems can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $180,000 annually.

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 are Computer Architects?

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 and develops computer hardware and system architecture, including processors, memory systems, and input/output devices. They analyze performance requirements, create technical specifications, and often work with software engineers to optimize hardware-software integration using tools like simulation and modeling. Strong knowledge of digital logic, computer design, and hardware description languages is essential for this role.

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, and often work in research, development, or engineering environments.

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.
More about Computer Architect jobs
What are popular job titles related to Computer Architect jobs in Washington, DC? For Computer Architect jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Architect jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Architect jobs in Washington, DC are:
Computer Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Architect job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $198,131 per year, or $95.3 per hour.

Cryptologic Computer Scientist with Security Clearance

The Swift Group

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

For the OPS Consulting team, 'the power to help' means helping our clients, helping serve the mission, helping our employees and their families, and helping the community. Headquartered in Hanover, MD. OPS Consulting has over two decades of experience specializing in the most mission-critical operations. We are thought leaders and innovators. The ingenuity of our developers, engineers, cyber experts, linguists, and analysts are dedicated to empowering our clients, fulfilling The Mission, and remaining trusted leaders and advisers in national security and technology solutions. We are looking for a Cryptologic Computer Scientist to work in Annapolis Junction and/or Laurel, MD. Responsibilities: The Cryptologic Computer Scientist will design, develop, deliver, and operate solutions to hard cryptologic computer science problems within a scientific framework. This position will require computer science skills (operating systems, compiler theory, database theory, algorithm analysis, computer architecture, discrete math, programming language theory, and data structures). Required Qualifications: * Experience with Python, Spark, and working with large-scale data.
* Must have a strong background in network protocol analysis.
* The ideal candidate will be inquisitive and have a discovery-focused mindset.
* Level 2:
* 5 years of relevant experience in the following areas: computer system research, simulation/ model development and prototyping, software design, programming, computational science, algorithm analysis, design, and reverse engineering/ designing/ developing to include hardware and/ or software.
* A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related fields such as (Engineering, Mathematics, Information Technology, or Information Systems), only if the following foundational Computer Science areas are met: algorithms, computer architecture, programming methodologies, data structures, logic and computation, and advanced mathematics.
* Level 3:
* 8 years of relevant experience in the following areas: computer system research, simulation/ model development and prototyping, software design, programming, computational science, algorithm analysis, design, and reverse engineering/ designing/ developing to include hardware and/ or software.
* A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related fields such as (Engineering, Mathematics, Information Technology, or Information Systems), only if the following foundational Computer Science areas are met: algorithms, computer architecture, programming methodologies, data structures, logic and computation, and advanced mathematics.
* Level 4:
* 11 years of relevant experience in the following areas: computer system research, simulation/ model development and prototyping, software design, programming, computational science, algorithm analysis, design, and reverse engineering/ designing/ developing to include hardware and/ or software.
* A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related fields such as (Engineering, Mathematics, Information Technology, or Information Systems), only if the following foundational Computer Science areas are met: algorithms, computer architecture, programming methodologies, data structures, logic and computation, and advanced mathematics. Security Clearance: * A current government clearance, background investigation, and polygraph are required. #LI-JP1 #OpsConsulting

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