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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

... to existing computer workstation hardware against business needs and make appropriate ... Alten is high-technology consulting and engineering group. The group's services are supplied to ...

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Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$107.7K

$143.2K

$175.6K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in Cedar Rapids, IA is $143,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,100.00 and $168,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computer hardware engineer?

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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer hardware engineer?

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 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 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 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 work with CAD software, troubleshoot hardware issues, and ensure compatibility with software systems, requiring knowledge of electronics and engineering principles.

What cities near Cedar Rapids, IA are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Cedar Rapids, IA with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,158 per year, or $68.8 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Secure Systems

Saige Partners

Cedar Rapids, IA

$140K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Description We strive to be Your Future, Your Solution to accelerate your career. Contact Hannah Wilson at hwilson@saigepartners.com, you can also schedule an appointment at to learn more about this opportunity. Position: Principal Systems Engineer - Secure Systems (Cedar Rapids, IA) Job Overview: The Senior Systems Engineer is responsible for leading the analysis, architecture, design, integration, and verification of complex, secure communication systems supporting defense and national security programs

This role partners with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop end-to-end system solutions that meet stringent customer, security, and performance requirements. The ideal candidate has extensive experience throughout the systems engineering lifecycle and thrives in a collaborative environment focused on solving complex technical challenges. This position requires an active, transferable U.S

Secret Security Clearance on the first day of employment. U.S. citizenship is required

Key Responsibilities: Lead systems engineering activities throughout the full product lifecycle, including concept development, architecture, design, fabrication, integration, testing, deployment, sustainment, and end-of-life planning. Analyze customer requirements and translate system-level needs into hardware and software specifications. Perform system architecture development, functional decomposition, requirements allocation, and interface definition.

Develop subsystem and component-level requirements while ensuring complete traceability to customer and system requirements. Create system verification strategies, validation plans, and acceptance criteria. Conduct trade studies, performance analyses, and technical evaluations to support system design decisions.

Lead system integration, verification, validation, qualification, and transition to production. Perform technical planning, risk assessments, cost analyses, and supportability evaluations for complex system solutions. Collaborate with hardware, software, cybersecurity, manufacturing, and test engineering teams throughout program execution.

Support proposal development, technical volume creation, and customer bid activities. Present technical solutions, program status, and engineering recommendations to customers, program leadership, and executive management. Ensure engineering solutions meet security, reliability, and mission-critical performance requirements.

Qualifications: Required Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or another STEM-related discipline. Minimum of 8 years of systems engineering experience, or 5 years with an advanced technical degree. Active and transferable U.S

Secret Security Clearance required prior to start. U.S. citizenship required

Experience with the complete systems engineering lifecycle, including: o Requirements development and management o System architecture and design o Requirements decomposition o System integration o Verification & Validation (V&V) o Production transition Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical leadership skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present technical information to both engineering and executive leadership. Preferred Experience supporting defense, aerospace, or secure communications programs.

Familiarity with the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) or Agile development methodologies. Experience with cryptographic hardware architecture and secure communication systems. Knowledge of network encryption technologies, security protocols, and testing methodologies.

Experience using systems engineering and requirements management tools such as: o IBM DOORS o Cameo Systems Modeler (SysML) o Similar Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools Programming or scripting experience using Python, Rust, or similar languages. Experience with hardware/software integration. Experience performing system qualification, verification, and validation testing.

Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles. Technical Skills: Systems Architecture Systems Engineering Lifecycle (SELC) Requirements Management Functional Analysis Requirements Decomposition System Integration Verification & Validation (V&V) Trade Studies Technical Planning Risk Analysis Cost Analysis Secure Communications Cryptographic Systems Network Encryption Hardware & Software Integration Qualification Testing Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) IBM DOORS Cameo Systems Modeler (SysML) Python Rust SAFe / Agile Methodologies Learn more about Saige Partners on Facebook or LinkedIn. Saige Partners, one of the fastest growing technology and talent companies in the Midwest, believes in people with a passion to help them succeed.

We are in the business of helping professionals Build Careers, Not Jobs. Saige Partners believes employees are the most valuable asset to building a thriving and successful company culture. Contact us to learn more about the opportunity below or check out other opportunities at https://careers.saigepartners.com/.