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Firmware Hardware Design Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design ... Lead hands-on hardware bring-up, debug, integration with software/firmware, and system-level ...

As a Firmware Engineer, you will: * Design, develop, and maintain firmware for embedded systems ... Participate in design reviews and bring a hardware-aware perspective to cross-functional technical ...

... firmware, and hardware security elements. The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in electronic ... Design and develop 3U and 6U VPX SBC, FPGA, switch, and I/O cards supporting high speed data ...

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Firmware Hardware Design Engineer information

What is a firmware hardware design engineer?

A Firmware Hardware Design Engineer is a professional who develops and integrates firmware (software that is closely tied to hardware) with electronic hardware systems. They are responsible for designing, testing, and troubleshooting embedded systems and ensuring that the firmware operates efficiently with the hardware components. Their work typically involves programming microcontrollers, circuit design, schematic creation, and collaboration with other engineering teams. This role is critical in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial automation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a firmware hardware design engineer?

To thrive as a Firmware Hardware Design Engineer, you need expertise in embedded systems, digital and analog circuit design, and proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, often backed by an electrical engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Altium Designer, MATLAB, oscilloscopes, and experience with hardware debugging platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that differentiate top performers. These competencies ensure reliable product development, seamless integration of hardware and firmware, and successful project delivery in technologically demanding environments.

What are some common challenges firmware hardware design engineers face when integrating new hardware with existing firmware?

Firmware Hardware Design Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that new hardware components communicate seamlessly with existing firmware. Compatibility issues, timing constraints, and debugging low-level interactions between hardware and firmware are frequent hurdles. Collaborating closely with both hardware and software teams is essential to resolve these challenges efficiently, often requiring thorough testing and iterative refinement. This integration process provides valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to develop problem-solving skills crucial for career growth in embedded systems engineering.

What is the difference between Firmware Hardware Design Engineer vs Embedded Systems Engineer?

AspectFirmware Hardware Design EngineerEmbedded Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems ProfessionalBachelor's in Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning hardware and firmware for embedded devices, often in R&D or product development teamsDeveloping and testing embedded software and hardware integration in various industries
Industry UsageElectronics, consumer devices, automotive, aerospaceConsumer electronics, industrial automation, medical devices

The Firmware Hardware Design Engineer focuses on designing both hardware and firmware components for embedded systems, ensuring seamless integration. The Embedded Systems Engineer typically develops software for embedded hardware, often working on system-level integration. While both roles require similar skills and certifications, the Firmware Hardware Design Engineer emphasizes hardware design alongside firmware development, whereas the Embedded Systems Engineer concentrates more on software development within embedded environments.

Infographic showing various Firmware Hardware Design Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Hardware Engineer I with Security Clearance

Hampton, VA • On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Other

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Quality Support, Inc., openings for Hardware Engineers entry level to 2+ years of related experience with a background of submarine electronic subsystem requirements, development, testing, building, maintaining, and troubleshooting AI infrastructure under the guidance of senior staff. In this role, you will assist with design, development, and testing of our rapidly expanding AI infrastructure. Working alongside senior engineers, you will ensure the highest levels of system availability, performance, and security as we bring innovative products from concept to prototype to mass production. Preferred Virginia Class Submarine Program and/or Columbia Class Submarine Program background/experience but not required. Secret and Top-Secret clearances required. Must be a US Citizen. THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT UPON CONTRACT AWARD. Location Virginia Level/Salary Range TBD HR Contact Subrina Miles Job Category Non-Exempt Security Clearance Required Secret (may require Top Secret) Position Type Full-time Duties/Requirements/Qualifications Hardware Engineer I Job Responsibilities Transform AI technology into opportunity as a Hardware Engineer at QSI. Help drive the next-must have dynamic mission-critical government projects while maturing your engineering skills and career. * Hardware Design: Assist in schematic capture and printed circuit board (PCB) layout under the guidance of senior staff. * Testing & Validation: Set up and execute test procedures to verify hardware performance, signal integrity, and power consumption. * Prototyping: Build, assemble, and debug hardware prototypes in the lab using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and logic analyzers. * Collaboration: Partner with software and firmware teams to ensure seamless hardware-software integration. * Documentation: Create and maintain accurate engineering documentation, test reports, and Bill of Materials (BOMs) Hardware Engineer Qualifications/Skills * Technical Skills: Familiarity with PCB design software (e.g., Altium, KiCad, OrCAD) and basic circuit simulation tools. * Lab Skills: Practical experience using standard electronic lab equipment (oscilloscopes, power supplies, signal generators). * Foundational knowledge of microcontrollers, microprocessors, and digital/analog circuit design. * Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with a drive to learn new technologies. * Communication skills * Teamwork * Analyzing information * Hardware/AI design * Hardware/AI documentation * Hardware/AI testing * Hardware/AI programming skills * Hardware/AI development fundamentals * Hardware/AI development process * System/AI requirements * Hardware in an AI architecture setting * The desire to be challenged and think out of the box Education / Experience Required * Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a closely related field * Entry level to two plus years of hands-on hardware design or relevant academic project/internship experience * Entry level to two plus years of experience as a Hardware/AI Engineer * One plus years of experience with AI, would be helpful * Master's degree in electrical or computer engineering as a future education goal