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Hardware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Our division currently has an exciting opportunity for an Electrical Hardware Engineer to design, development, and build of radio-frequency (RF) and digital electronic hardware from prototypes ...

Electrical Hardware Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Our division currently has an exciting opportunity for an Electrical Hardware Engineer to design, development, and build of radio-frequency (RF) and digital electronic hardware from prototypes ...

Electrical Hardware Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Our division currently has an exciting opportunity for an Electrical Hardware Engineer to design, development, and build of radio-frequency (RF) and digital electronic hardware from prototypes ...

Automation Hardware Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$84K - $127K/yr

The Automation Hardware Engineer is responsible for the performance, reliability, and continuous improvement of the physical automation systems within the High Bay Warehouse - including conveyors ...

The Automation Hardware Engineer is responsible for the performance, reliability, and continuous improvement of the physical automation systems within the High Bay Warehouse - including conveyors ...

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Showing results 1-20

Hardware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.6K

$145K

$194.8K

How much do hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 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.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like FPGA design or ASIC development, and advanced certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level software engineers and certain engineering managers in technology companies may also reach this salary level, often with additional bonuses or stock options.

Can you make $250,000 as an engineer?

Hardware engineers can earn $250,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries or senior roles. Achieving this salary often requires specialized knowledge, certifications, and working in regions or companies that offer higher compensation packages.

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 senior roles, bonuses, and stock options. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

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 job categories do people searching Hardware Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,976 per year, or $69.7 per hour.
Senior Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

Senior Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

Quality Support Inc.

Hampton, VA • On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Quality Support, Inc., openings for Hardware Engineers with 25+ years of related experience with a background of submarine electronic subsystem requirements, development, testing, building, maintaining, and troubleshooting AI infrastructure as senior staff. In this role, you will analyze networks, computers, and storage processing hardware characteristics and recommend equipment procurement, removals, and modifications, collaborating closely with software, layout and manufacturing teams to support system integration 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. 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 Top Secret (may require SCI) Position Type Full-time Duties/Requirements/Qualifications Senior Hardware Engineer 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 Engineer (HWE) collaboratively works closely with the Sponsor, and senior staff/teams to identify, understand, and anticipate system requirements. * The HWE analyzes network, compute, and storage processing hardware characteristics and recommends equipment procurement, removals, and modifications. * The HWE reviews system inventory, in-bound shipments, and ongoing demand to ensure that proper hardware stock and sparing levels are maintained to support build and repair activities. * The HWE works with the Lab/SCIF Manager to optimize the flow of parts through their lifecycle; tracking inventory location, movement, age, and turns. * The HWE performs daily system data center rounds to monitor the data center infrastructure, coordinate response to operational incidents, and partner with other providers to rapidly resolve issues that impact service availability. * The HWE supports system infrastructure build-outs (cage builds, overhead installations, rack and stack), cable termination and testing, maintenance work, monitoring and responding to mechanical, electrical, fire protection, telecom, and security systems. * Daily tasks include, but are not limited to: * Conduct sites surveys; assesses and documents current site network configuration and user requirements. * Analyze existing requirements and prepare specifications for hardware acquisitions. * Review system compute, storage, and networking systems in terms mission capability, end of life, and redundancy * Prepares reports and studies concerning hardware that provide to cost savings, technical efficiencies, and system reliability recommendations. * Prepares functional requirements and specifications for hardware acquisitions. * Produces Test Plans by preparing engineering plans and site installation Technical Design Packages. * Manage or assist in Infrastructure projects (Internal/Sponsor) to include Cage and Cabinet Build-Outs, Overhead Installations, Rack and Stack * Develops and prepares site and hardware installation schedules, supplying subsequent test reports. * Prepares drawings documenting configuration changes. * Assist in asset and consumable inventory management Senior Hardware Engineer Qualifications/Skills * Essential skills include experience in configuring, deploying, and managing hardware infrastructure, along with expert knowledge of hardware itself. * Experience with workflow orchestration/automation tools, virtualizing platforms, and configuration/infrastructure management tools are also necessary. * Experience in data center environments, engineering hardware and network designs for large-scale applications, automating issue detection, and operating cloud-based platforms are key requirements. * Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, the ability to troubleshoot complex issues, and collaboration skills are also important. * Understanding hardware, lifecycle management and optimization is also required. * Experience with specific hardware and cloud vendors (e.g., HP/Dell, AWS, Azure, GCP). * Experience with server visualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Red Hat Virtualization, Oracle VM), performance analysis tools, managing budgets, and collaborating with hardware manufacturers are also beneficial. * Experience working with U.S. Government defense contracts or security clearance eligibility. * 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 * BS or MS degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or closely related field * Twenty-five plus years of experience as a Hardware/AI Engineer * Five plus years of experience with AI would be helpful * CompTIA Hardware Certification (e.g., A+, Network+, Server+). * Cisco Certifications (e.g., CCNA, CCDP). * Microsoft Certifications (e.g., MCSA, MCSE). * Specialized certifications related to specific hardware technologies (e.g., embedded systems, networking, AI)