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Hardware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and fielding of advanced integrated networking and computing systems for tactical ...

Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Description Position Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and fielding of advanced integrated networking and computing systems for ...

Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and fielding of advanced integrated networking and computing systems for tactical ...

Hardware Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Hardware Engineer Location:Sterling, VA Clearance:TS/SCI Poly **This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** The Hardware Engineer (HWE) collaboratively works closely with the Sponsor, OM, and ...

Hardware Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

Hardware Engineer Location: Sterling, VA Clearance: TS/SCI Poly **This position is CONTINGENT upon contract award** The Hardware Engineer (HWE) collaboratively works closely with the Sponsor, OM, and ...

$116K - $153K/yr

The Hardware Engineer will play a key role in supporting hardware requirements for the Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) infrastructure and will develop and implement Anti-Tamper (AT) requirements.

Hardware Engineer (Design Focus)

King George, VA · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

The Hardware Engineer will play a key role in supporting hardware requirements for the Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) infrastructure and will develop and implement Anti-Tamper (AT) requirements.

Peraton is seeking an experienced systems Hardware Engineer to join our national intelligence program in Northern Virginia that delivers engineering, application development, deployment, operations ...

Peraton is seeking an experienced systems Hardware Engineer to join our national intelligence program in Northern Virginia that delivers engineering, application development, deployment, operations ...

Systems Hardware Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Peraton is seeking an experienced systems Hardware Engineer to join our national intelligence program in Northern Virginia that delivers engineering, application development, deployment, operations ...

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Hardware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.6K

$145K

$194.8K

How much do hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Hardware engineers and electrical engineers typically earn salaries below $500,000, with top earners in specialized fields or executive roles reaching higher compensation. Achieving such a salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced skills, leadership positions, or working in high-paying industries like aerospace or semiconductor design. Most electrical engineers earn a median salary significantly lower than $500,000 annually.

What are hardware engineers?

Hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of computer hardware, such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work closely with software engineers to ensure that hardware and software function together efficiently. Hardware engineers are involved in researching new technologies, improving existing hardware, and troubleshooting issues to enhance system performance. Their work is crucial in industries like computing, telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics.

What are some typical challenges Hardware Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Hardware Engineers often collaborate closely with software developers, product managers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is aligning hardware specifications with software requirements, which may change throughout the development cycle. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Hardware Engineers must balance technical constraints, cost considerations, and evolving project goals. Staying proactive in cross-team meetings and clarifying expectations early on can help reduce misunderstandings and ensure smoother project delivery.

What can a Hardware Engineer do?

A Hardware Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains physical electronic components and systems such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They often use tools like CAD software and may require knowledge of programming, electrical theory, and industry standards. Hardware Engineers work in labs or manufacturing environments and may hold certifications like IPC or IEEE standards.

What is the difference between Hardware Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectHardware EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Computer EngineeringBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing hardware components, working in labs or officesDesigning electrical systems, working in labs, manufacturing, or field
Industry UsageElectronics, computer hardware, telecommunicationsPower systems, electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing

Hardware Engineers focus on designing and developing physical electronic components and systems, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems and power distribution. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate in technology industries.

What Does a Hardware Engineer Do?

A hardware engineer, or computer hardware engineer, specializes in all aspects of computer hardware, including testing, repairing, building, and maintaining its efficiency. As a hardware engineer, your responsibilities include developing and installing new hardware systems for businesses, providing tech support to users with hardware issues, along with designing and building new products for manufacturers. You may specialize in areas such as internal components, servers, electrical engineering, cellular and tablet devices, or traditional computers and networks.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced hardware engineers working in specialized fields such as semiconductor design, aerospace, or defense can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. Such roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like FPGA design or ASIC development, and working in high-demand industries such as aerospace or semiconductor manufacturing, can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Hardware Engineer, a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and computer architecture is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PCB layout tools, and hardware description languages, as well as certifications like Certified Hardware Design Engineer (CHDE), are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding hardware engineers apart. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable, high-performance hardware products that meet rigorous industry standards.
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 Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Hardware Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Hardware Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,976 per year, or $69.7 per hour.
Hardware Engineer

Hardware Engineer

Fenix Group, Inc

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$127K - $168K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced Hardware Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and fielding of advanced integrated networking and computing systems for tactical (military) applications. This is a hands-on technical leadership role focused on leveraging commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) networking and wireless communication technologies to create rugged, high-performance systems suitable for challenging operational environments.
The ideal candidate is a proven technical leader with deep expertise in modern hardware design who can guide a multidisciplinary team from concept through deployment.
Company Description
At Nokia Federal Solutions Inc. (Nokia Federal), we are committed to building scalable, secure, and resilient networks that enhance government operations. Our team helps solve complex challenges for U.S. civil, defense, and intelligence sectors by providing leading end-to-end mission-critical network solutions. With a legacy backed by over 100 years of technology innovation, we are pioneers in the field. Nokia Federal is a dedicated Nokia U.S. entity focused on delivering mission-critical solutions to the U.S. Government. Join us today and contribute to helping support the mission!
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the hardware architecture, design, development, integration, testing, and field support of tactical networking and computing systems built on commercial technologies.
  • Stay current with the latest networking and wireless communication chipsets (including 4G/5G, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and related RF components) and evaluate their suitability for tactical applications.
  • Define system architecture and hardware requirements to meet performance, size, weight, power (SWaP), thermal, and environmental constraints typical of military use.
  • Develop schematics, select components, define PCB stack-ups, oversee PCB layout, and manage signal integrity, power distribution, and thermal management/cooling solutions.
  • Lead hands-on hardware bring-up, debug, integration with software/firmware, and system-level testing in both lab and field environments.
  • Collaborate closely with software engineers, RF engineers, mechanical engineers, and systems engineers to ensure seamless integration and overall system performance.
  • Conduct design reviews, risk assessments, and technical trade studies to drive technical decisions.
  • Mentor and guide a team of hardware engineers while fostering a culture of technical excellence and accountability.
  • Support production transition efforts, including design for manufacturability (DFM) and coordination with contract manufacturers.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field (Master's preferred).
  • 10+ years of hands-on experience in hardware design and development, with a strong focus on embedded systems, networking hardware, or wireless communication platforms.
  • Proven experience as a technical leader or lead hardware engineer managing and mentoring a development team.
  • Deep knowledge of current-generation networking and wireless communication chipsets and modules.
  • Strong expertise in board-level design including schematic capture, PCB stack-up definition, high-speed signal routing, power integrity, and thermal/cooling design.
  • Experience with full product development lifecycle - from architecture definition through schematic design, layout, bring-up, verification, and fielding.
  • U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience designing hardware for tactical, military, or rugged environments (MIL-STD, environmental qualification, SWaP optimization).
  • Background in 4G/5G, IP networking hardware, or RF subsystem integration.
  • Familiarity with high-speed interfaces (PCIe, Ethernet, DDR, SerDes, etc.) and associated signal integrity challenges.
  • Prior work transitioning hardware designs to production with contract manufacturers.
  • Experience with thermal analysis, cooling solutions, and ruggedization techniques for deployed systems.

What We Offer You
  • An opportunity to be a part of something bigger; a mission with real impact.
  • A chance to be a part of a people-first team.
  • A comprehensive range of benefits that are fair, equitable, and competitive that include the following:
  • Company-paid, full coverage inclusive health care (Medical, Dental Vision), for you and your family.
  • Life/Disability: Employer-paid life insurance, in addition to short-term and long-term disability.
  • 401(k) Retirement Account, 6% employer contribution.
  • Professional Development
  • Flexible Paid Time Off
  • Holidays: 11 paid holidays throughout the calendar year.

An Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Nokia Federal Solutions Inc. is an equal opportunity employer & provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and will make hiring decisions without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status, protected genetic information, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.