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Computer Hardware Designer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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COMPUTER SCIENTIST

Hanover, MD · On-site

$167K/yr

... systems; designing containerized microservices and Application Programming Interface-first ... using knowledge of computer hardware, software, and systems. * Engineering and Technology:

Que Technology Group

Hardware Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

Que Technology Group, Inc ., is seeking a Hardware Engineer , who will be responsible for designing ... Bachelor's degree in Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical ...

Que Technology Group

Hardware Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$137K - $180K/yr

Que Technology Group, Inc ., is seeking a Hardware Engineer , who will be responsible for designing ... Bachelor's degree in Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical ...

Annapolis Micro Systems

Hardware Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$100K - $230K/yr

We are continually designing new and innovative products, which fosters an extremely fast-paced ... Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Electrical, Computer Engineering, Physics or equivalent * At least ...

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Computer Hardware Designer information

See Washington salary details

$24.4K

$74.1K

$126.9K

How much do computer hardware designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware designer in Washington is $74,122.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $96,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, petroleum, aerospace, and electrical engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing advanced certifications and expertise in niche areas.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand industries.

What do hardware designers do?

Hardware designers develop and create computer hardware components such as circuit boards, processors, and memory devices. They use design software like CAD tools, analyze specifications, and collaborate with engineers to ensure functionality and manufacturability. Their work often involves testing prototypes and refining designs to meet performance and safety standards.

What tech jobs pay $400,000 a year?

In the field of computer hardware design, senior roles such as hardware engineering directors or chief hardware architects can reach or exceed $400,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in FPGA or ASIC design, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in large tech companies or specialized industries like semiconductor manufacturing, where expertise in hardware development and project management is valued. Certifications and a strong portfolio of innovative hardware projects can also contribute to achieving this salary level.

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

AspectComputer Hardware DesignerComputer Hardware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, collaborative teamsDevelopment labs, testing facilities, manufacturing settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in design and development of new hardware productsInvolved in designing, testing, and improving hardware systems

Computer Hardware Designers focus on creating new hardware designs using CAD tools, while Computer Hardware Engineers work on developing, testing, and refining these designs for production. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ within the hardware development process.

What are some typical challenges faced by Computer Hardware Designers when working on new product development?

Computer Hardware Designers often grapple with balancing innovation and practicality during new product development. They must ensure that hardware components meet performance targets, comply with industry standards, and are manufacturable within budget constraints. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—such as software engineers and manufacturing specialists—is crucial, as design changes can impact the entire product lifecycle. Staying updated with rapidly evolving technology and integrating new materials or components also presents ongoing challenges.

What does a Computer Hardware Designer do?

A Computer Hardware Designer is responsible for creating and developing the physical components that make up computers and related devices, such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, and networking hardware. They use engineering principles and design software to draft and test new hardware concepts, ensuring they meet technical specifications and industry standards. Their role often involves collaborating with software developers, testing prototypes, and troubleshooting hardware issues to optimize performance and reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Hardware Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Hardware Designer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering, circuit design, and computer architecture, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Proficiency with hardware description languages (such as VHDL/Verilog), CAD tools (like Altium Designer or OrCAD), and simulation software is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional designers apart. These skills ensure reliable, innovative hardware solutions that meet complex technical requirements and industry standards.
Computer Hardware Designer jobs near you

COMPUTER SCIENTIST

Outreach Events

Hanover, MD • On-site

$167K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

DCSA Acquisition and Technology, National Background Investigation Services (NBIS) is seeking a Software Engineer, to serve as a technical expert in the multidisciplinary fields of Product Management, enterprise architecture, infrastructure, software development, data management and governance, tool development, systems engineering, sustainment, and related subject matter areas as they pertain to an enterprise system. 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 07/06/2026
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 GS/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: Engineering and maintaining enterprise-level backend software architectures and data integration systems; designing containerized microservices and Application Programming Interface-first integration frameworks; developing scalable core backend services, robust data ingestion pipelines, and secure authentication/authorization layers; architecting and managing high-volume Application Programming Interface connections to numerous external data providers (to include managing rate limiting, error handling, and token authentication); establishing rigorous coding standards and technical debt governance; and utilizing Agile methodologies to iteratively develop, test, and release backend software solutions that support critical organizational or national security missions.
Specifically you will be evaluated on the following competencies:
  1. Artificial Intelligence: Knowledge of the principles, methods, and tools used to design systems that perform human intelligence functions.
  2. Data Systems and Management: Plan, develop, implement, and administer the collection, storage, maintenance, integrity, and retrieval of data, using knowledge of computer hardware, software, and systems.
  3. Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of engineering concepts, principles, and practices, and of equipment, tools, mechanical devices, and their uses to produce motion, light, power, technology, and other applications.
  4. 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.
Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.Employment Type: OTHER

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