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Computer Architect Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Computer Architect information

See Washington, DC salary details

$180K

$197.5K

$213.3K

How much do computer architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer architect in Washington, DC is $197,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $189,000.00 and $205,900.00 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $197,460 per year, or $94.9 per hour.

COMPUTER SCIENTIST (ENTERPRISE ARCHITECT)

Quantico, VA • On-site

Outreach Events
See more jobs at Outreach Eventsexternal

$169K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

DCSA Acquisition and Technology, National Background Investigation Services (NBIS) is seeking a Lead Software Architect to engineer enterprise-level software architectures supporting critical national security. The incumbent will drive the shift from waterfall to Agile/MVP releases, establish security controls, govern technical debt, & lead microservices initiatives using the Software Acquisition Pathway. Visit www.dcsa.mil to learn more about DCSA, America's Gatekeeper!Qualifications:This position has a Basic Requirement for the 1550: Bachelor's degree in computer science or bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. At least 15 of the 30 semester hours must have included any combination of statistics and mathematics that included differential and integral calculus. All academic degrees and course work must be from accredited or pre-accredited institutions.
*NOTE: Failure to provide transcripts will result in you being rated ineligible for this position.
The experience described in your resume will be evaluated and screened from the Office of Personnel Management's (OPMs) basic qualifications requirements. See: Computer Science Series 1550 for OPM qualification standards, competencies and specialized experience needed to perform the duties of the position as described in the MAJOR DUTIES and QUALIFICATIONS sections of this announcement by 09/02/2026
Applicant must have directly applicable experience that demonstrates the possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities and competencies necessary for immediate success in the position. Qualifying experience may have been acquired in any public or private sector job, but will clearly demonstrate past experience in the application of the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to successfully perform the duties of the position.
You must have specialized experience sufficient to demonstrate that you have acquired all the competencies necessary to perform at a level equivalent in difficulty, responsibility, and complexity to the next lower grade (GG-14) in the Federal service and are prepared to take on greater responsibility.
Generally, this would include one year or more of such specialized experience.
Specialized experience for this position includes: Experience serving as an authoritative technical advisor responsible for strategic planning, engineering, and execution of complex enterprise software architectures. Experience leading multidisciplinary development teams using Agile software development methodologies following the software development lifecycle. Experience utilizing build tools (e.g., GitLab), integration patterns (e.g., API or similar tech), data architecture, data solutions implementation (e.g., Databricks), AWS cloud environments, and cybersecurity Risk Management Framework (RMF). Experience aligning emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics, with organizational Responsible Artificial Intelligence (RAI) policies. Experience leading technical working groups and delivering authoritative technical briefings to executive-level internal and external stakeholders.
Specifically you will be evaluated on the following competencies:
  1. Information Technology Architecture: Knowledge of architectural methodologies used in the design and development of information systems, including the physical structure of a systems' internal operations and interactions with other systems.
  2. Requirements Analysis: Knowledge of the principles and methods to identify, analyze, specify, design, and manage functional and infrastructure requirements; includes translating functional requirements into technical requirements used for logical design or presenting alternative technologies or approaches.
  3. Software Engineering: Knowledge of software engineering design and development methodologies, paradigms, and tools; the software life cycle; software reusability; and software reliability metrics.
  4. Artificial Intelligence: Knowledge of the principles, methods, and tools used to design systems that perform human intelligence functions.
Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.Employment Type: OTHER

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