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Hardware Design Engineer Intern Jobs in Reston, VA

Curtiss-Wright

Senior Hardware Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

Senior Hardware Engineer - Onsite position Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Senior Hardware ... Design and develop 3U and 6U VPX SBC, FPGA, switch, and I/O cards supporting high speed data ...

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$160K - $200K/yr

The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission ... Support hardware-in-the-loop testing, sensor integration, and validation of radar subsystems.

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Expertise in RF hardware design, payload architectures, and test methodologies. * Experience with ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

SAIC

Radar System Design Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Radar System Design Engineer will support advanced space-based ISR and ground radar mission ... Support hardware-in-the-loop testing, sensor integration, and validation of radar subsystems.

i3

Digital Hardware Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$115K - $189K/yr

Overview i3 has an exciting opportunity for a Digital Hardware Engineer to support the Naval ... Design, implement, analyze and test FPGA-based digital systems. * Develop HDL and block designs for ...

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Hardware Design Engineer Intern information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$20

$38

How much do hardware design engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware design engineer intern in Reston, VA is $20.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of electronics, circuit design, and hardware fundamentals, usually supported by coursework or a degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with CAD tools such as Altium Designer, OrCAD, or Mentor Graphics, along with basic proficiency in hardware description languages, is typically expected. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure that interns can contribute meaningfully to design projects, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate efficiently in fast-paced engineering environments.

Is $20 an hour good for an internship?

For a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, $20 an hour is generally considered competitive, especially for entry-level positions that may require basic knowledge of circuit design, FPGA programming, or CAD tools. Internships often pay between minimum wage and $25 per hour, depending on location, company size, and required skills. Factors such as workload, learning opportunities, and industry standards should also be considered when evaluating compensation.

How much do Dell hardware engineer interns make?

Dell hardware design engineer interns typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on location and experience. Interns often work in a collaborative environment with access to industry-standard tools and may be required to complete a summer or semester-long internship program.

Are hardware engineers in high demand?

Hardware Design Engineer Interns and hardware engineers are in high demand due to the growth of electronics, IoT, and embedded systems industries. Skills in circuit design, FPGA, and CAD tools increase employability, and the field offers strong job prospects for those with relevant technical expertise. Demand is expected to remain steady as technology continues to advance.

How much do SpaceX hardware engineer interns make?

SpaceX hardware engineer interns typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience and location. Interns often work in a hands-on environment with exposure to aerospace hardware design and testing. Compensation can vary based on the internship program and academic level.

What types of projects can a Hardware Design Engineer Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Hardware Design Engineer Intern, you can expect to be involved in projects such as circuit board design, prototyping, testing, and debugging of hardware components. Interns often assist with schematic capture, PCB layout, and collaborating with senior engineers to validate and optimize hardware designs. These projects provide hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and foster collaboration with cross-functional teams, including firmware and mechanical engineers. This exposure helps build a strong technical foundation and prepares you for more advanced engineering roles.

What is the difference between Hardware Design Engineer Intern vs Hardware Design Engineer?

AspectHardware Design Engineer InternHardware Design Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of Electrical or Computer EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in tech or manufacturing companiesFull-time professional role in hardware development teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, electronics, and semiconductor industries for entry-level rolesFull-time positions in similar industries, focusing on product development

The main difference between a Hardware Design Engineer Intern and a Hardware Design Engineer lies in experience level and responsibilities. Interns are typically students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, while engineers are full-time professionals responsible for designing and developing hardware products.

What does a Hardware Design Engineer Intern do?

A Hardware Design Engineer Intern assists in the development and testing of electronic hardware components and systems, such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping with schematic design, PCB layout, prototyping, and debugging. Their tasks may also include performing simulations, documenting designs, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. This role provides hands-on experience in the hardware development process and helps interns learn industry standards and tools.
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA? For Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Hardware Design Engineer Intern job openings:
Hardware Design Engineer Intern jobs near you
Senior Hardware Engineer

Senior Hardware Engineer

Curtiss-Wright

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$94K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Senior Hardware Engineer - Onsite position
Curtiss-Wright is seeking an experienced Senior Hardware Engineer to join our Defense Solutions Group.
This role involves designing and developing complex electrical boards, including single board computers (SBC), FPGA, switch, and input/output cards in 3U and 6U VPX form factors, as well as custom form-factor systems incorporating software, firmware, and hardware security elements. The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in electronic components, integrated circuitry, mechanical systems, and DSP systems, with demonstrated experience solving complex technical challenges across hardware design, testing, and production phases.
Location: Ashburn, VA, Boston, MA, Salem, NH
Salary Range: $94,900 - $130,000 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture *
Your Challenge
  • Collaborate with engineering, project management, test, and operations teams in small, highly integrated, multidisciplinary teams to meet demanding, schedule-driven customer requirements.
  • Design and develop 3U and 6U VPX SBC, FPGA, switch, and I/O cards supporting high speed data processing applications.
  • Design and develop custom form-factor systems incorporating SBC, FPGA, switch, and I/O cards, power supplies, and thermal management elements, including Liquid-Flow-Through (LFT) methods.
  • Support the translation of system requirements into practical hardware designs and contribute to design decisions related to performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability.
  • Perform hardware design analysis, troubleshooting, and technical evaluations throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Support hardware verification, qualification, and production activities by developing and executing test plans and resolving technical issues.
  • Apply engineering best practices to improve product performance, reliability, and time-to-market (TTM).
  • Develop and maintain technical procedures, design documentation, and engineering manuals.
  • Provide technical guidance and support to junior engineers and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

What you Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering required; Master's degree preferred.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in DoD embedded systems and hardware design, including SBC, FPGA, switch, and I/O card development up.
  • Experience designing mixed-signal, high-speed digital, analog, and low-power, high-current circuits in high-reliability environments.
  • Experience with high-density interconnect (HDI) PCB designs, including multi-layer boards, blind/buried vias, and uVia structures preferred.
  • Experience with Siemens Expedition DX Designer (SCH) and Siemens Expedition PCB tools preferred.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and deliver results in a schedule-driven engineering environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to support complex hardware development efforts.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • US Citizenship required; active DoD security clearance preferred.

Who We Are
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright's Defense Solution division is a trusted, proven leader, delivering superior products and services that meet the defense and aerospace industries' toughest challenges with best-in-class value. Our solutions address air, ground, and naval defense applications, and are focused on growth segments with a high demand for advanced technology, enhanced safety, security, and performance. As a leading Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) solutions supplier for battlefield platforms and communication systems, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from the DoD's commitment to maintaining technological superiority on the battlefield.
To learn more visit: Home | Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions (curtisswrightds.com)
#LI-YH1
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

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Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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