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Entry Level Hardware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

Manassas, VA · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems. Managerial ... Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers * Assigns tasks and coordinates ...

Control Engineer 2

Winchester, VA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

... SCADA Screens/ Hardware / Communications) o Preparation of Specifications o Perform QA/QC and ... Personnel Management o Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers o Assigns ...

COMSEC Test Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100 - $210/hr

From entry-level engineers to mission program leads, we create space for every employee to thrive ... Functional Validation: Conduct comprehensive functional checkouts of hardware/software ...

Client Support Engineer 1

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$40K - $42K/yr

... hardware; deploy workstations * Install OS; test configuration; run diagnostics * Configure ... Some college or equivalent experience; technical coursework * Entry level with some prior ...

... entry-level Field Engineer or Technician who is eager to build hands-on technical experience and ... Understanding of or exposure to field instrumentation, hardware panels and low voltage controls ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Hardware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.6K

$145K

$194.8K

How much do entry level hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level hardware engineer in Virginia is $144,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,400.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level hardware engineer?

An Entry Level Hardware Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, testing, and troubleshooting of computer hardware components and electronic systems. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to create circuit boards, processors, and other hardware elements used in various devices. Their role often includes schematic design, prototyping, debugging, and performance analysis to ensure optimal hardware functionality. Additionally, they collaborate with software engineers and manufacturers to bring products to market efficiently.

What does an entry level hardware engineer do?

A typical day for an Entry Level Hardware Engineer involves working closely with senior engineers to design, test, and debug hardware components and systems. You might spend time developing schematics, using simulation tools, assembling prototypes in the lab, and participating in team meetings to review project progress. Collaboration with software engineers, quality assurance teams, and manufacturing staff is common, ensuring seamless integration of hardware and software elements. The role offers a mix of hands-on technical tasks and problem-solving challenges, making every day varied and engaging as you build your experience and skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level hardware engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Hardware Engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering and a solid understanding of circuit design, microprocessors, and embedded systems. Familiarity with hardware description languages (such as VHDL or Verilog), PCB design tools (like Altium Designer or Eagle), and basic lab equipment is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication skills help distinguish successful candidates. These skills are critical for effectively designing, testing, and supporting hardware solutions as part of a team in a fast-evolving technology landscape.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Hardware Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Hardware Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Hardware Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,976 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Control Engineer 2 - Manassas

M.C. Dean, Inc

Manassas, VA • On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


M.C. Dean rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
Control Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery, and processes. Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and transportation systems. They're technical experts in areas such as advanced process control, instrumentation, distributed control systems, PLCs, and SCADA systems. Control engineers use these skills to design and implement solutions to solve our customer's most complex needs.
Responsibilities
Design / Engineering
  • Originates design documents for small projects and in support of large programs.
  • Narrative Design Documents
  • Requirements Analysis
  • Subsystem Designs (CAD / Panels / Layouts / Wiring / SCADA Screens/ Hardware / Communications)
  • Preparation of Specifications
  • Perform QA/QC and technical reviews of designs
  • Plans and Designs
  • Procedures and Fixtures for Integrated Systems Factory Testing o Internal/External Comment Resolution

Programming
  • Lead programming / configuration team efforts for complex automation and SCADA applications.
  • Program / Configure / troubleshoot PLCs, RTUs, and/or HMI systems.
  • Testing / Troubleshooting / Deployment / Commissioning
  • Author testing / commissioning procedures
  • Preparation of test reports
  • Originates test procedures
  • Commissioning of deployed systems
  • Development of test fixtures and simulation devices
  • Perform Factory and Field Testing
  • Maintenance
  • Perform troubleshooting on service calls to existing and legacy system operators.
  • Perform hardware / software upgrades and replacements on existing systems.

Managerial Responsibilities
  • Estimates
  • Conducts any surveys, inspections, tours, etc. of client sites, as required.
  • Prepares cost estimates and supporting documents for small projects.
  • Assists senior engineers in preparation of Bids and Proposals cost estimates and supporting documentation.
  • Evaluation and pricing of change orders

Personnel Management
  • Assigns technical tasks and coordinates with entry-level engineers
  • Assigns tasks and coordinates with Technical Staff

Qualifications
Field Experience
  • Experience in reading electrical and control schematics and plans
  • Experience in control system startup, configuration, and calibration
  • Experience in testing and troubleshooting control systems
  • Experience using basic electrical and machinist hand tools
  • Experience using testing, calibration, or industry-specific tools and software Tools / Software
  • Experience in computer networks
  • Experience in CAD/CAE Software (AutoCAD / EPLAN)
  • Standard Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.)

Requirements
  • Proficient in programming languages such as ladder logic and structured text.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex automation issues.
  • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting PLCs or DDCs from at least 1 of the following platforms:
    • Siemens (SIMATIC)
    • Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) (Plant Pax preferred)
    • Schneider Electric (Modicon)
    • Tridium Niagara Framework
    • ABB (AC500, AC800M)
    • Omron
    • KMC Controls
    • Johnson Controls Metasys
    • Honeywell WEBS
    • Johnson Control FX
    • Siemens Desigo/Apogee
    • Distech Controls
    • Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
    • GE Intelligent Platforms
  • Proficient in designing, programming, and troubleshooting SCADA solutions from at least 1 of the following platforms:
    • AVEVA (formerly Wonderware) InTouch, System Platform
    • Ignition by Inductive Automation
    • GE Digital (iFIX, CIMPLICITY)
    • Siemens WinCC
    • Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View
    • AVEVA (formerly Schneider Electric) Citect SCADA
    • Intellution FIX32/HMI32 (Historical) by GE Digital
    • VTScada by Trihedral Engineering Limited
    • AVEVA (OSIsoft PI) Historian

Preferred Licenses / Certifications
  • Design Build Institute of America (DBIA)
  • Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)
  • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) In relevant in field
  • Certification in one or more PLC / Automation Platform, such as: Schneider, Rockwell, Siemens, Niagara, etc.
  • Certification in one or more SCADA platform, such as: AVEVA, Rockwell, Iconics, Ignition, etc.

Education / Experience
  • Master's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field 0+ years of experience
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, or a related field with 2+ years of experience

Abilities:
  • Exposure to computer screens for an extended period of time.
  • Sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
  • Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard.
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
  • Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
  • Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Identify and understand the speech of another person.

Pay Range
USD $86,720.00 - USD $107,700.00 /Yr.

What M.C. Dean employees say

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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