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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$108.6K

$144.3K

$177K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in Virginia is $144,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $169,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which pays more, CS or CE?

Computer Hardware Engineers typically earn similar salaries to Computer Science professionals, but salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Computer Science roles often have higher median pay due to broader application areas like software development and data analysis, while Computer Hardware Engineering focuses on designing and testing physical components. Both fields require technical skills and certifications, and salary differences are influenced by demand and specialization.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or at large technology companies, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves leadership roles, advanced certifications, or working in regions with higher salary standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Computer hardware engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within the tech industry. Senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills, or leadership positions may reach high six-figure incomes, but $500,000 is rare for standard hardware engineering roles.

What are some common challenges faced by computer hardware engineers in collaborative projects with software teams?

Computer hardware engineers often collaborate closely with software developers to ensure seamless integration between hardware components and software applications. A frequent challenge is aligning timelines and technical requirements, as hardware development cycles can differ from software schedules. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both disciplines are essential to address compatibility issues and meet project deadlines. Building strong cross-functional relationships helps resolve these challenges and leads to successful product development.

What Do Computer Hardware Engineers Do?

Computer hardware engineers design and test new computer hardware components, such as screens, motherboards, and memory. They may also work with products that include a computer system, such as cars, home entertainment components, and appliances that connect to the internet. Your responsibilities include creating design drawings and collaborating with manufacturers to ensure the devices are produced to specifications. You may also work with software developers to ensure compatibility. You must be able to read and design technical drawings and be able to communicate effectively with all participants in the project.

What are computer hardware engineers?

Computer hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work to ensure that computer hardware functions efficiently and integrates seamlessly with software. These engineers are often involved in research, prototyping, and overseeing the manufacturing of hardware equipment. Their work is crucial in advancing technology and improving the performance of computer systems.

What exactly does a computer hardware engineer do?

A computer hardware engineer designs, develops, tests, and improves computer components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They often use CAD software and work in labs or manufacturing environments, requiring knowledge of electronics, programming, and industry standards.

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

To thrive as a Computer Hardware Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, computer architecture, and circuit design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer or electrical engineering. Familiarity with hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), CAD software, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco is often important. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate and innovate within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the effective design, testing, and optimization of reliable hardware systems that meet modern computing needs.

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

AspectComputer Hardware EngineerComputer Network Architect
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco CCNA are commonBachelor's in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related; certifications like Cisco CCNP are typical
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and developing computer hardware; labs and engineering facilitiesDesigning and implementing network systems; offices and data centers
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, hardware manufacturing, research labsTelecommunications, large enterprises, data centers

Computer Hardware Engineers focus on designing and developing physical computer components, while Computer Network Architects plan and build data communication networks. Both roles require technical certifications and often work in technology-driven environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly in scope and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
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What job categories do people searching Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in VA? For Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, 66% Full Time, 6% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,251 per year, or $69.4 per hour.

Principal I&C Hardware Engineer

Framatome North America

Lynchburg, VA

$115K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Why This Role Is Critical

As the need for nuclear energy grows, the future couldn't be brighter. Join our vital mission to create lasting solutions for our planet's greatest challenges. In this role, you are ready to shape the future of clean energy and make a long-lasting global impact. With us, anticipate engaging and challenging projects that deliver innovative solutions and value-added technologies helping power more than 38 million North American homes.

We are seeking a highly motivated Instrumentation & Control (I&C) Safety System Hardware Engineer to support the modernization of safetyrelated systems in commercial nuclear power plants. In this role, you will design, implement, and verify hardware solutions that meet stringent functional safety requirements and comply with nuclear regulatory standards. You will contribute across the entire system lifecycle-from requirements definition and detailed design through implementation, testing, configuration management, and preparation of licensing documentation.

What You'll Do Day-To-Day
  • Performs a variety of more complex engineering assignments typically in areas of design, development, analysis, evaluation, testing, preparation of specifications, execution of field tasks and resolution of field problems.  
  • Performs independent review of department work products, risk assessments, Apparent Cause Analyses, Root Cause Analyses, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis etc.  
  • Proposes solutions and work scope to supervisor, works autonomously on most assignments and solutions.  
  • Ensures compliance with government regulations, organization, industry and customer engineering standards.  
  • Independently evaluates, selects and applies a variety of technical techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgement in making more complex adaptations and modifications for tasks not previously performed.  
  • Develops new or adapted products, methods, systems or models to provide added value solutions to customers.  
  • Understands impact of work on other organizations internally and externally.  
  • Works on special projects, as directed.  
  • Provides suggestions for improving processes and implementing process improvements.
  • Translate system and regulatory requirements into detailed hardware design requirements, design specifications, and implementation plans.
  • Develop and review hardware designs, system architectures, cabinet layouts, Bills of Materials, system cabling interfaces, and cabinet power design.
  • Define and support Establish equipment setups/monitoring for seismic, environmental, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests.
  • Support power distribution analysis, heat load calculations, response time evaluations, and uncertainty analyses for safety related systems.
  • Provide support for SAP Material Master data and Bill of Materials (BOM) management activities.
  • Assist in developing and executing test methods, procedures, and validation plans.
  • Develop and execute Commercial Grade Dedication (CGD) plans and associated reports.
  • Work closely with system architects, software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and licensing teams to ensure solutions are technically integrated, compliant, and licensable.
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
    • Dependent on the position, degrees in Physics, Engineering Technology and Engineering Science may also be accepted.
  • Minimum of 7 years of related experience.
  • Advanced knowledge of related engineering standards, techniques and criteria.  
  • Excellent communication skills to comprehend and convey detailed technical data.
  • Grows developed network and maintains good interpersonal relationships; work collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Advanced problem identification and problem resolution skills.  
  • Displays leadership characteristics.  
  • Exhibits questioning attitude and practices self-checking.  
  • Advanced proficiency with specialized software tools and programming languages as required by the role.
  • Familiarity with nuclear digital I&C standards and regulatory expectations for digital safety systems.
  • Experience with requirements engineering, traceability, and configuration management processes.
  • Strong analytical skills and proficiency in technical documentation and communication.
  • Handson experience with digital safety platforms such as safety PLCs or FPGAbased platforms.
  • Experience supporting licensing submittals, audits, or regulatory inspections.
  • Background in Equipment Qualification and applicable regulatory standards.
  • Proficiency with electrical and system CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, EPlan, AutoCAD Electrical).
  • Prior experience working in a commercial nuclear power plant environment. 
Total Rewards Package

Total Rewards Package         

  • Salary: $115,000 - $156,000, and may also include annual incentives and performance bonuses. The base salary range is a guideline. Individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location.
  • Health & Wellness: Multiple medical plan options, dental & vision coverage, life insurance, long- and short-term disability, and optional supplemental plans (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, dependent life).
  • Retirement: 401(k) with employer match.
  • Paid Time Off: Up to 3 weeks of vacation, 8 sick days, and 13 paid holidays annually.
  • Extra Perks: Lifestyle spending account, employer paid mental health support, education reimbursement, professional development opportunities, adoption assistance, parental leave, and employee assistance programs.
About Framatome

Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Framatome Inc. is headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, with more than 2,400+ employees across North America supporting nearly every nuclear plant in the nation.

From our facilities in Virginia, Washington, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and beyond, we deliver outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on.

At Framatome, you will join a global team committed to creating reliable, carbon-free energy. Here, you can:

  • Solve complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate.
  • Build your career through technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global opportunities.
  • Do your best work in a culture that values safety, innovation, and well-being.

Framatome is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Offers are contingent on background check and drug screen (where applicable). Positions may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations; applicants must meet eligibility requirements (see DOE 810 Appendix A).

Employment Type: FULL_TIME