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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering + 5 years of related experience OR master ... Experience in hardware design, validation, bring-up, and debug for complex electronic systems.

Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$113K - $161K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering + 5 years of related experience OR master ... Experience in hardware design, validation, bring-up, and debug for complex electronic systems.

Perception Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Job Overview We are seeking a Perception Hardware Engineer to join a team that will integrate and ... Proficiency with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX/Unigraphics preferred) * Experience with engineering ...

Hardware Engineer

Lockhart, TX · On-site

$113K - $149K/yr

We're looking for a tinkerer whose core strengths are sensors, microcontroller programming, and ... Light mechanical fab: basic CAD, 3D printing You don't need every one of these. We care more about ...

Up to 10 Positions Position Summary Seeking experienced Electrical Hardware Engineers to support a major automation installation project in Austin, Texas. This position will serve as a key technical ...

Up to 10 Positions Position Summary Seeking experienced Electrical Hardware Engineers to support a major automation installation project in Austin, Texas. This position will serve as a key technical ...

Hardware Systems Engineer - Data Center HWE

Austin, TX · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field. 5+ years of experience in server hardware ...

Design Engineering Hardware SAP Short Name: LEN-ENG-DHW Job Level: Level 08 IC/MGR: Individual ... Repetitive manual movements (e.g., data entry, using a computer mouse, using a calculator, etc ...

Mid-Level Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

We are seeking a skilled and hands-on Mid-Level Hardware Engineer to join our Engineering team. This role will be responsible for the design, validation, and support of analog and mixed-signal ...

D degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field ... hardware systems for robotics, autonomous vehicles, or advanced AR/VR platforms. PHYSICAL ...

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Showing results 1-20

Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$108.5K

$144.2K

$176.9K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in Austin, TX is $144,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,900.00 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 Austin, TX? The most popular types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Austin, TX? For Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Austin, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,220 per year, or $69.3 per hour.
Hardware Engineer

$113K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Drive technical execution across hardware design, validation, bring-up, diagnostics, compliance, manufacturing readiness, and sustaining support.

  • Help resolve complex technical issues that affect customer deployments, manufacturing continuity, and product reliability.

  • Partner with software, mechanical, signal integrity, power, thermal, manufacturing, supply chain, compliance, product management, and customer support teams.


Cisco Systems rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 141 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

The application window is expected to close on: 07/23/2026

Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

This role requires the employee to work onsite at the Austin, TX office location.

Meet the Team

The Common Hardware Group (CHG) creates innovative hardware platforms central to the AI era, powering Cisco's core Switching, Routing, and Wireless products for organizations globally. Our innovations in silicon, optics, and hardware platforms-like Silicon One-are shaping the technology industry.

The Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series hardware team within CHG is responsible for designing and developing the stackable enterprise switching platform tailored for security, mobility, and cloud applications. This product family features flexible uplink architectures supporting 1 GE to 100 GE speeds and offers models with 24 or 48 ports supporting various Ethernet speeds and Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities, including PoE+, Cisco UPOE, and UPOE+.

Your Impact

This role directly impacts Cisco's Catalyst switching business by delivering reliable, scalable, and cost-effective hardware platforms for enterprise campus networks. The engineer will contribute across design, validation, manufacturing, and sustaining activities, with influence on product quality, customer experience, supply continuity, and Cisco's competitive position in enterprise networking.

  • Plays a visible role in maintaining Cisco's leadership position in enterprise access switching through execution quality and platform innovation.

  • Drives technical execution across hardware design, validation, bring-up, diagnostics, compliance, manufacturing readiness, and sustaining support.

  • Influences product cost, manufacturability, supply continuity, and lifecycle efficiency through strong engineering decisions.

  • Partner with software, mechanical, signal integrity, power, thermal, manufacturing, supply chain, compliance, product management, and customer support teams.

  • Helps resolve complex technical issues that affect customer deployments, manufacturing continuity, and product reliability.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering + 5 years of related experience OR master's degree in electrical or computer Engineering + 3 years of related experience.

  • Experience in hardware design, validation, bring-up, and debug for complex electronic systems.

  • Experience in areas such as high-speed digital design, power delivery, signal integrity, thermal, EMI/EMC, and manufacturing readiness.

  • Experience with lab equipment such as Oscilloscopes, Logic Analyzers, Function generators, protocol analyzers, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of Board Design tools: Cadence Concept/Allegro/System Capture.

  • Experience with interface protocols such as PCIe, USB, eMMC, I2C, MDIO, and Ethernet.

  • Experience with Ethernet switching technologies, PHYs, SerDes, optics, PoE, power supplies, or embedded management subsystems.

Why Cisco?

At Cisco, we're revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era - and beyond. We've been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint.

Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions. Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you'll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless. We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale. Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere.

We are Cisco, and our power starts with you.

Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:The starting salary range posted for this position is $113,900.00 to $161,000.00 and reflects the projected salary range for new hires in this position in U.S. and/or Canada locations, not including incentive compensation*, equity, or benefits.

Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees are offered benefits, subject to Cisco's plan eligibility rules, which include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance. Please see the Cisco careers site to discover more benefits and perks. Employees may be eligible to receive grants of Cisco restricted stock units, which vest following continued employment with Cisco for defined periods of time.

U.S. employees are eligible for paid time away as described below, subject to Cisco's policies:

  • 10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees

  • 1 paid day off for employee's birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco

  • Non-exempt employees** receive 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees

  • Exempt employees participate in Cisco's flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations)

  • 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours ofunused sick timecarried forwardfrom one calendar yearto the next

  • Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members

  • Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer

For non-sales roles, employees are also eligible to earn annual bonuses subject to Cisco's policies.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components, subject to the applicable Cisco plan. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:

  • .75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;

  • 1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;

  • 1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and

  • Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay 0% up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

The applicable full salary ranges for this position, by specific state, are listed below:

New York City Metro Area:

$135,800.00 - $222,400.00

Non-Metro New York state & Washington state:

$122,000.00 - $197,900.00

* For quota-based sales roles on Cisco's sales plan, the ranges provided in this posting include base pay and sales target incentive compensation combined.

** Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.


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About Cisco Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cisco Systems, a global tech titan based in San Jose, CA, US, operates in the information technology and services industry. Founded in 1984, the company was derived from a project between two computer scientists from Stanford University. They aimed to connect different networks of computer systems at the university, resulting in the first multi-protocol router, and subsequently, the birth of Cisco. As an industry-leading manufacturer of networking hardware and telecommunications equipment, Cisco's product and services range includes routers, switches, firewall devices, and telecommunication technology. The company's mission, "to shape the future of the Internet by creating unprecedented value and opportunity for our customers, employees, investors, and ecosystem partners," is a testament to its pursuit of technology-forward innovation and customer satisfaction.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1984

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