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Dft Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to ensure Design for Test (DFT) principles are incorporated into system architecture. * Define and implement manufacturing ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to ensure Design for Test (DFT) principles are incorporated into system architecture. * Define and implement manufacturing ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to ensure Design for Test (DFT) principles are incorporated into system architecture.Define and implement manufacturing requirements ...

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$110 - $135/hr

Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to ensure Design for Test (DFT) principles are incorporated into system architecture. * Define and implement manufacturing ...

Head of Quality, Tate Americas

Columbia, MD ยท On-site

$220 - $250/hr

Working closely with the US Head of Compliance, Site General Managers, Engineering and Supply Chain ... Establish in-process inspection regimes (VT, DFT, dimensional) and statistical process control ...

... DFT). The firm was established to identify and capitalize on acquisitions of high-quality data ... Engineering or another quantitative subject What We Offer Cloud Capital's people and culture are ...

Showing results 21-35

Dft Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$82.7K

$146.7K

$282K

How much do dft engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for dft engineer in Washington is $146,684.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,700.00 and $152,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DFT engineer?

To thrive as a DFT (Design for Test) Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, digital design, and ASIC/FPGA development, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with test methodologies, scan insertion tools (such as Synopsys DFT Compiler or Mentor Tessent), and scripting languages like Perl or Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help DFT Engineers collaborate with design and verification teams to resolve complex testability challenges. These competencies are essential to ensure high-quality, testable silicon designs that minimize defects and streamline manufacturing processes.

What is the difference between Dft Engineer vs Test Engineer?

AspectDft EngineerTest Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electronics, Electrical, or related fields; certifications in DFT techniquesBachelor's in Electronics, Electrical, Computer Science; certifications in testing methodologies
Work EnvironmentDesign and implementation of DFT strategies during IC developmentTesting, validation, and debugging of electronic products and systems
Employer & Industry UsageSemiconductor companies, IC design firmsConsumer electronics, automotive, telecommunications industries

While both Dft Engineers and Test Engineers work in electronics and semiconductor industries, Dft Engineers focus on designing testability features during chip development, whereas Test Engineers execute testing and validation of finished products. Their roles complement each other, but their daily tasks and expertise areas differ significantly.

Is DFT engineering a good career?

DFT (Design for Test) engineering is a specialized field within semiconductor and integrated circuit design, focusing on ensuring chip testability and manufacturability. It offers steady demand due to the need for quality control in electronics manufacturing and typically requires knowledge of digital design, testing methodologies, and tools like EDA software. Career growth depends on industry trends, technical skills, and certifications, making it a viable option for those interested in hardware design and testing.

How much do DFT engineers make?

Design for Test (DFT) engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior DFT engineers with specialized skills in automation and verification can earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand tech regions.

What does a Dft engineer do?

A DFT (Design for Test) engineer designs and implements testing strategies to ensure integrated circuits and electronic systems are defect-free and function correctly. They develop test plans, create test hardware and software, and work closely with design teams to improve testability and reduce manufacturing defects. Proficiency in scripting, testing tools, and industry standards is essential for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by DFT engineers during the silicon validation phase, and how can these be addressed?

DFT Engineers often encounter challenges during the silicon validation phase, such as discrepancies between simulation results and actual silicon behavior, limited access to internal nodes, and diagnosing scan chain failures. These issues can be addressed by thorough pre-silicon verification, incorporating robust test points, and leveraging advanced diagnostic tools and methodologies. Effective collaboration with design and validation teams is also crucial to quickly resolve issues and implement necessary design changes, ensuring high test coverage and product reliability.

What is a DFT engineer?

DFT Engineers, or Design for Test Engineers, are professionals who specialize in designing and implementing test structures and methodologies within integrated circuits (ICs) to ensure their testability and reliability during manufacturing. Their work enables efficient detection and diagnosis of faults in chips, helping to improve yield and reduce production costs. DFT Engineers collaborate closely with design, verification, and manufacturing teams to integrate features such as scan chains, built-in self-test (BIST), and boundary scan into chip designs. Their expertise is crucial for modern semiconductor development, especially as chips become increasingly complex.
What job categories do people searching Dft Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Dft Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Dft Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Dft Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Dft Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,684 per year, or $70.5 per hour.

Principal Manufacturing Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA โ€ข On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Electra
At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.
A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.
The Role
As our Principal Manufacturing Engineer, focused on Aircraft Systems Installation, you'll lead the manufacturing engineering effort for aircraft systems integration on the EL9, a clean-sheet Part 23 aircraft. Embedded in our Integrated Product Development Team (IPDT), your focus will be on electrical and avionics systems installation, applying DFM and DFA principles to enable efficient, scalable final assembly operations - and ensuring production test processes are built in from day one.
What You'll Do
  • Serve as the manufacturing engineering focal point for aircraft systems installation, including electrical wiring interconnect systems (EWIS) and avionics.
  • Collaborate with product engineering and systems teams to incorporate DFM/DFA principles into system design.
  • Collaborate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to ensure Design for Test (DFT) principles are incorporated into system architecture.
  • Define and implement manufacturing requirements for system installation and integration.
  • Develop and deploy installation processes and work instructions, leveraging Lean Manufacturing principles.
  • Define, specify, and coordinate tooling, fixtures, and installation aids required for systems installation.
  • Act as the interface between manufacturing, engineering, program teams, and suppliers, ensuring alignment on requirements, schedule, cost, and quality.
  • Conduct trade studies and resolve technical challenges related to systems installation and integration in final assembly.
  • Support development of assembly sequencing and installation strategies for aircraft systems.
  • Define and implement test requirements, strategies, and procedures for aircraft systems during final assembly.
  • Develop and deploy production test processes, including functional testing, integration testing, and validation procedures.
  • Define, specify, and coordinate the implementation of test equipment, rigs, benches, and automated test systems.
  • Ensure alignment between design, manufacturing, and test requirements to meet program schedule, cost, and quality objectives.
  • Conduct trade studies and resolve complex technical challenges related to systems testing and validation.
  • Establish and document testability, diagnostics, and fault isolation best practices.
  • Contribute to the implementation of a greenfield final assembly line, including assembly flow, factory layout, and installation zones.

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in aerospace manufacturing or production engineering.
  • Experience with aircraft systems installation, including EWIS and avionics integration.
  • Strong cross-functional communication and collaboration skills.
  • Proven ability to influence multidisciplinary teams and coordinate with suppliers.
  • Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

Bonus Points
  • Experience supporting aircraft systems installation during development and/or production programs.
  • Background working at an aircraft OEM or Tier 1 supplier.
  • Familiarity with assembly sequencing, zoning, and installation planning.
  • Working knowledge of CAD, PLM, and MES tools.

Compensation
$130,000 - $160,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.
What We Offer
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.

Compensation and Benefits
In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.
Working Conditions
Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.
Background & Drug Screening
Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.
Commitment
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.
Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.
Electra is an E-Verify employer.