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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Charlottesville, VA

Beyond SOF

Software Engineer-Mid

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

Apply expertise to perform in-depth technical evaluations of foreign computer and network ... hardware devices, including microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSP) and field programmable ...

Beyond SOF

Software Engineer-Mid

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

Apply expertise to perform in-depth technical evaluations of foreign computer and network ... hardware devices, including microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSP) and field programmable ...

teKnoluxion

HPC Systems Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Troubleshoot hardware, OS, scheduler, networking, and high-performance interconnect issues (e.g ... Requires Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related STEM field (experience in ...

teKnoluxion

HPC Systems Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Troubleshoot hardware, OS, scheduler, networking, and high-performance interconnect issues (e.g ... Requires Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related STEM field (experience in ...

teKnoluxion

HPC Systems Engineer

Charlottesville, VA

$150K - $200K/yr

Troubleshoot hardware, OS, scheduler, networking, and high-performance interconnect issues (e.g ... Requires Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related STEM field (experience in ...

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All JobsComputer Hardware Engineer JobsComputer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Charlottesville, VA

Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Charlottesville, VA salary details

$108.6K

$144.3K

$177.1K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in Charlottesville, VA is $144,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $169,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior computer hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with roles in large companies, management positions, or those working on advanced hardware design and development projects.

What does a computer hardware engineer make?

A computer hardware engineer typically earns a median annual salary of around $128,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and industry. They design, develop, and test computer components such as circuit boards, processors, and memory devices, often working with specialized tools and certifications in electronics and engineering. Salaries can range from approximately $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on factors like seniority and employer.

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, leadership positions, or those working in high-cost regions may approach these figures, especially with bonuses and stock options included.

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 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 schematic diagrams, use CAD software, and need knowledge of electronics and programming. Their work environment typically includes labs and offices, and they may require certifications in electronics or computer engineering.

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 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.

More about Computer Hardware Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA? The most popular types of Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA? For Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Charlottesville, VA are:
What cities near Charlottesville, VA are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities near Charlottesville, VA with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:
Computer Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Charlottesville, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,344 per year, or $69.4 per hour.
Sr. Principal PWB Design Engineer

Sr. Principal PWB Design Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Charlottesville, VA • Hybrid

$111K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 356 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 535 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered by providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!

Northrop Grumman offers challenging career opportunities in Hardware Engineering within the Mission Systems Sector that play a key role in the mission to protect our military personnel. The Hardware Engineering organization is dedicated to consistently providing high quality product designs in support of multiple product areas. The Design Data and Product Integrity Engineering (DDPIE) organization provides engineering support services for all programs at the Rolling Meadows campus including CCA Design Layout Technology, Configuration Management, Data Management, Drafting, Standards and Components, Product Follow, and Product Integrity Engineering. Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking an experienced Principal Design Engineer to join its Design Layout Technology team.


The Principal Design Engineer plans, lays out, draws and revises parts, assemblies and fabrication engineering drawings from basic layouts, establishing references and standard data for PWB design artifacts. Utilizes computer-aided design graphic tools such as Cadence Allegro. Completes details of major layout drawings in accordance with standard engineering drafting practices, military specifications, as well as industry standards.


Primary Functions:


- Layout of PWBs/PCBs, flex circuits, interconnect routing, and drawing generation
-Calculates layer stack-up based on industry standards, supplier capabilities, and engineering requirements
-Creates and documents the required electronic data file outputs for fabrication and manufacturing
-Responsible to interface with electrical and mechanical engineers to work through component placement, routing, mechanical fitment for rigid, flex, and rigid-flex assemblies
-Understands technical theories of electrical and mechanical behavior of PWBs/PCBs to influence layout decisions (i.e. impedance matching, differential pairs, strains and stresses, orientation of components, etc.)
-Incorporates PWB/PCB change notices.
-Checks designs and drawings for manufacturability.
-Excellent interpersonal skills. Be able to coordinate and lead design reviews with engineering, quality and manufacturing personnel.

#MSRMTA

This Role is based in Rolling Meadows, IL as the primary work location. However, this role may consider hybrid work capability reporting to one of these other Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Locations: Amherst, NY., Apopka, FL., Charlottesville, VA., Sykesville, MD., Annapolis, MD.

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Design Engineer:

- Bachelor's degree in STEM field with 8 years of directly related professional working experience or Master's degree in STEM field with 6 years of directly related professional working experience or 12 years of directly related professional working experience in lieu of degree.
- Drafting and design experience in PCB design for fabrication and PWB layer stack up for digital, RF, mixed signal, and power supply CCAs
- Experience with Cadence Allegro or similar CAD tool
- Knowledge of industry specifications and design for manufacturing (DFM) rules for CCA and PWB design, fabrication and manufacturing
- Must be able to read drawings and schematic diagrams
- US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Sr. Principal Design Engineer:

- Advanced degree in STEM field
- Experience in PCB fabrication, testing, and quality

- Good self-organization, and communication skills

Primary Level Salary Range: $111,700.00 - $185,000.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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