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Computer Hardware Designer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Cloud Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$56.50 - $75.25/hr

Provides cloud systems design and administration - Analyzes, designs, and troubleshoots cloud ... Troubleshoots computer hardware issues - Identifies and corrects problems with computer hardware ...

Cloud Engineer

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Provides cloud systems design and administration - Analyzes, designs, and troubleshoots cloud ... Troubleshoots computer hardware issues - Identifies and corrects problems with computer hardware ...

Hardware Engineer 1

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$49.26 - $66.71/hr

The GG RF Hardware Engineer is a critical role responsible for designing, installing, and testing ... Bachelor's degree in Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical ...

Hardware Engineer 1

Fort George G Meade, MD

$137K - $180K/yr

The GG RF Hardware Engineer is a critical role responsible for designing, installing, and testing ... Bachelor's degree in Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical ...

In this role, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing hardware components ... DEGREE (Level Desired) Bachelor's Degree DEGREE (Focus) Electrical Engineering, Computer ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 11, 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.
Hardware Engineer L1 with Security Clearance

Hardware Engineer L1 with Security Clearance

Jovian Concepts, LLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Jovian Concepts, LLC is looking to hire a Hardware Engineer Level 1 for a great opportunity in the Annapolis Junction area.    A current and active TS/SCI Clearance with a Polygraph from the MD Customer is required. No CCA's will be accepted at this time. Description: Provide hardware engineering expertise to analyze complex hardware systems, hardware design, architecture, network design and other technical hardware issues. Procure and perform acceptance testing on equipment. Provide hardware maintenance support, both preventative and remedial. Deploy, install, and implement hardware in Continental United States (CONUS) and Outside Continental United States (OCONUS). Prepares specifications for hardware by analyzing documented and derived system requirements. Conduct site surveys. Prepares engineering plans and site Technical Design Packages. Organize and direct hardware installations. Configure (and document configuration of) computers, networking devices and various peripheral equipment. Prepare site installation and test reports. Ensure that problems have been properly identified and solutions will satisfy the user’s requirements. Prepare reports and recommendations concerning existing and emerging hardware technologies. Provide specific input to the hardware components of system design to include end-user devices, servers, networking devices, data storage devices, and specialized processors The Level 1 Hardware Engineer (HE) shall possess the following capabilities: * Prepare functional requirements and specifications for hardware acquisitions * Analyze hardware specifications and system/subsystem requirements to conceive and document a practical design for hardware components to include servers, network devices, transmission media, storage devices, user interface devices, and special processors * Ensure that problems with operational hardware have been properly identified and solutions will satisfy the user’s requirements * Assist with preparing installation guides, field test procedures, and troubleshooting guides * Conduct site surveys; assesses and documents current site network configuration and site unique requirements * Develop hardware installation schedules based upon set-up, integration, and test timelines * Train site personnel in proper use of hardware * Recommend specifications for hardware acquisitions * Prepare engineering plans and site installation Technical Design Packages * Prepare drawings documenting as-built configurations at each site * Prepare site installation and test reports * Configure computers, communications devices and peripheral equipment * Prepare installation guides, field test procedures, and troubleshooting guides Requirements Position Requirements: * A current and active TS/SCI Clearance with a Polygraph from the MD Customer is required. No CCA's will be accepted at this time. * Required to travel up‑to 15 % worldwide to support installations, testing, and maintenance in remote or austere environments. * Have knowledge and experience designing, installing, and testing RF systems.   Qualifications: * Seven (7) years experience as a HE analyzing complex hardware systems for SIGINT solutions. * Bachelor’s degree in Communications Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Information Systems, Mathematics, or related discipline from an accredited college or university is required. Five (5) years of additional hardware engineering experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree. In a recent employee survey, Jovian Concepts earned a 92% Overall Workplace Experience Score and 100% of employees agreed that they would highly recommend working at Jovian Concepts to others.