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Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Madison, WI · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

... of hardware engineer. 4. Build prototypes, create bills of materials work with production on ... CAD (preferred AutoCad) training. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology ...

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Madison, WI

$19 - $25.50/hr

... of hardware engineer. 4. Build prototypes, create bills of materials work with production on ... CAD (preferred AutoCad) training. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology ...

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Madison, WI · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

... of hardware engineer. 4. Build prototypes, create bills of materials work with production on ... CAD (preferred AutoCad) training. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology ...

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Madison, WI · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

... of hardware engineer. 4. Build prototypes, create bills of materials work with production on ... CAD (preferred AutoCad) training. 7. Demonstrated proficiency in digital tools and technology ...

... computer simulation. * Assign staff to analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware. * Direct technicians, engineering designers or other technical support personnel as needed. * Confer with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$110.4K

$146.6K

$179.9K

How much do computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer hardware engineer in Madison, WI is $146,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,900.00 and $172,300.00 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 Madison, WI are hiring for Computer Hardware Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Computer Hardware Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $146,631 per year, or $70.5 per hour.

Engineering Manager - Hardware

AprilAire

Sun Prairie, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview

AprilAire is currently seeking an Engineering Manager - Hardware to join us at our Sun Prairie Innovation Center! In this role you will oversee and coordinate activity within the internal hardware engineering team, with responsibilities that include communication and coordination across all engineering groups. You will also be responsible for the robust task  of developing processes, creating and tracking KPIs, and providing mentorship as well as technical and project oversight for the hardware team as needed.


Responsibilities
  • Contribute to the scope and schedule determination for the hardware development and testing portion of projects 
  • Plan and oversee the execution of sprints within the hardware team (including story pointing, retrospectives, and prioritization of tasks with input from stakeholders/project managers) 
  • Triage hardware issues raised and assign to the appropriate engineer 
  • Define and manage hardware, simulation, test, and validation performance requirements for new products 
  • Collaborate on circuit design, schematics, layout, analysis, and documentation 
  • Own hardware architecture requirements and design specification documents  
  • Conduct design reviews and translate findings into actionable tasks 
  • Develop complete PCB designs, including schematics and layouts 
  • Provide oversite for obsolescence management and other life cycle support requirements 
  • Suggest and contribute to the development of R&D concepts 
  • Continuously improve development processes based on cutting edge best-practices 
  • Ensure the team follows approved hardware design and review processes 
  • Track and report hardware KPIs including schedule status, sprint velocity, and hardware test findings 
  • Act as a point of contact for specification clarity and alignment 
  • Communicate deliverables to test teams and other stakeholders.  
  • Update manager with bi-weekly sprint reports 
  • Identify and appropriately flag risks  
  • Contribute to and participate in gate reviews 
  • Collaborate with product owner, program manager, and stakeholders to define project milestones, requirements, and estimate task efforts for our hardware development 
  • Provide oversight and mentorship for hardware engineers.  
  • Assist project managers in keeping track of hardware development and testing portions of the schedule and budget 
  • Work closely with quality team to develop and maintain processes to validate hardware 
  • Build a diverse and high-performing team through strategic hiring, talent development, and effective role alignment 
  • Management of external hardware resources used to supplement our internal engineers, as needed 
  • Set and manage individual and team goals focused on capability building, efficiency, and performance 
  • Willing and capable of travelling between AprilAire facilities, suppliers, and customers. Expected amount of travel is small (1-2 trips a year outside of WI) 

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related field.
  • 7-10 years of experience as a hardware engineer. 
  • 1-3 years of project management or people leadership experience. 
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with both internal and external stakeholders and senior leadership.
  • Experience in hardware reliability analysis, FMEA required.
  • Experience in conducting root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Experience in document creation including specifications, design descriptions, design & test reports.
  • Experience designing products for manufacture. 
  • Experience with electrical CAD tools, preferably Altium Designer. 
  • Experience with increasing responsibility in project development with demonstrated leadership success 
  • Organizational, coordination, and multi-tasking experience 
  • Strong understanding of analog and digital circuit design principals, including PCB layout and design for EMC.
  • Experience establishing work relationships across multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Experience taking a design from architecture through to production. 

LinkedIn Tag
Keyan Stremikis #LI-KS1Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, or related field.
  • 7-10 years of experience as a hardware engineer. 
  • 1-3 years of project management or people leadership experience. 
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with both internal and external stakeholders and senior leadership.
  • Experience in hardware reliability analysis, FMEA required.
  • Experience in conducting root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions.
  • Experience in document creation including specifications, design descriptions, design & test reports.
  • Experience designing products for manufacture. 
  • Experience with electrical CAD tools, preferably Altium Designer. 
  • Experience with increasing responsibility in project development with demonstrated leadership success 
  • Organizational, coordination, and multi-tasking experience 
  • Strong understanding of analog and digital circuit design principals, including PCB layout and design for EMC.
  • Experience establishing work relationships across multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Experience taking a design from architecture through to production. 
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME