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Hardware Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lead Hardware Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Lead Hardware Engineer Term: Long-Term Contract/Perm Location: San Diego, Ca, Irvine, Ca, Los Angeles, Ca, Virginia Start Date: ASAP * Experience designing high-speed digital boards (>1GHz signals ...

Senior Electronics Hardware Engineer Working Pattern: Hybrid (3 office days per week) Working location: Reston, VA Relocation assistance is not available for this position. We have an exciting new ...

New

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

New

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

Junior Hardware Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI with Polygraph Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type ...

SME Hardware Reverse Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$142K - $187K/yr

Conduct comprehensive hardware reverse engineering of OT and IC devices * Analyze network-edge devices and embedded systems compromised by advanced threats * Perform deep‑deep analysis of ...

Principal Hardware Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

Principal Hardware Engineer Curtiss Wright is seeking an experienced Principal Hardware Engineer to join our Defense Solutions Group. This role involves planning, leading, and designing complex ...

Showing results 41-60

Hardware Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$50.6K

$145K

$194.8K

How much do hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 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 is a hardware engineer?

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 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 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 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,976 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Senior Digital Hardware Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and evaluation of electrical hardware for defense systems.

  • Transform product requirements into detailed hardware specifications and designs, working with cross-disciplinary teams.

  • Oversee the creation of electrical designs from schematics to prototypes, ensuring performance, reliability, and manufacturability.


Job description

Position Summary
The Hardware Design Engineer will lead the design, development, and evaluation of electrical hardware for mission-critical defense systems. This role is responsible for translating product requirements into detailed hardware specifications and reliable, production-ready electrical designs, working closely with product architects, mechanical and software engineers, PCB layout specialists, and supply chain partners throughout the product development lifecycle. The ideal candidate brings 10-15+ years of hands-on hardware design experience, strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles and simulation tools, and a proven ability to lead technical projects and mentor junior engineers. This position requires a collaborative, detail-oriented engineer who can drive designs from initial concept and schematics through prototyping, factory testing, and production while ensuring performance, reliability, manufacturability, and compliance with demanding defense requirements.
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 circuit design and evaluation of third-party hardware for defense systems, ensuring compliance with stringent requirements.
  • Collaborate with Product Architects to transform product needs into precise hardware specifications and design requirements.
  • Develop and refine electrical designs from block diagrams to detailed schematics, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
  • Work closely with mechanical and software engineers to create a cohesive, multidisciplinary design solution.
  • Engage with PCB layout specialists to translate electrical designs into practical, manufacturable products.
  • Oversee program status reporting and communicate progress in release manager meetings, ensuring transparency and alignment with management.
  • Coordinate with the Supply Chain team for material acquisition, prototyping, and factory testing to meet project timelines.
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior hardware team members, fostering their growth and enhancing team capabilities.

Required Qualifications
  • US Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering
  • Min. 10-15 years of experience in hardware electrical design for production
  • Proficiency in simulation tools for design elements like power consumption and thermal performance
  • Strong knowledge of the product development process

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with advanced PCB design and layout
  • Familiarity with multiple hardware engineering disciplines, including mechanical design
  • Knowledge of prototyping and factory assembly processes
  • Experience leading projects and providing technical guidance to junior team members

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.