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Hardware Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protingent

Hardware R&D Validation Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$45 - $70/hr

Hardware R&D Validation Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract opportunity for a Hardware R&D Validation Engineer with our client located in Bellevue, Washington ...

IBM

Quantum Hardware Research Scientist

Yorktown, NY · On-site

Introduction At IBM Research, we are the innovation engine of IBM. Exploring what's next in computing and shaping the technologies the world will rely on tomorrow. From advancing AI and hybrid cloud ...

IBM

NY · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Job Title Quantum Hardware Research Scientist Date posted 09-Jul-2026 Job ID 88976 City / Township / Village Yorktown Heights State / Province New York Country United States Work arrangement Onsite ...

IBM

NY · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Quantum Hardware Research Scientist Date posted: 03-Jul-2026 Job ID: 88976 City / Township / Village: Yorktown Heights State / Province: New York Country: United States Work arrangement: Onsite Area ...

Futurex

Hardware Design Engineer

Bulverde, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will perform moderately complex work involving research and development, as ... Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, and electronic/computer hardware. * Experience with in ...

Futurex

Hardware Design Engineer

Bulverde, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will perform moderately complex work involving research and development, as ... Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, and electronic/computer hardware. * Experience with in ...

Futurex

Hardware Design Engineer

Bulverde, TX · On-site

The ideal candidate will perform moderately complex work involving research and development, as ... Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, and electronic/computer hardware. * Experience with in ...

Baxter

Senior Manager, Hardware R&D

Raleigh, NC

$152K - $209K/yr

Your Role at Baxter Baxter is hiring a Senior R&D Manager to become part of our Care and ... Own hardware build and manufacturing processes and maintain relationships with manufacturing ...

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Hardware Research information

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How much do hardware research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware research in the United States is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is hardware research?

Hardware research involves the study, design, and development of physical computing components such as processors, memory devices, circuit boards, and embedded systems. Researchers in this field explore new materials, architectures, and technologies to improve performance, energy efficiency, and reliability. Their work can lead to innovations in computers, mobile devices, IoT gadgets, and other electronic equipment. Hardware research often bridges multiple disciplines, including electrical engineering, computer science, and materials science.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in hardware research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in hardware research often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving technology, tight project deadlines, and balancing innovation with cost-effectiveness. Staying updated with the latest advancements and industry standards is crucial, as is effective collaboration with cross-functional teams like software engineers and product designers. Regular communication, continuous learning, and proactive problem-solving are key strategies to navigate these challenges and drive successful hardware innovations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in hardware research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Hardware Research, you need a solid background in electrical or computer engineering, strong analytical skills, and typically a relevant degree (such as a BS or MS in Engineering or Physics). Familiarity with CAD tools, simulation software (like SPICE or MATLAB), and laboratory testing equipment is essential, and certifications in hardware design or embedded systems can be advantageous. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for developing innovative hardware solutions, ensuring accurate prototyping, and driving technological advancement within research teams.

What is the difference between Hardware Research vs Hardware Design?

AspectHardware ResearchHardware Design
CredentialsDegree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; often requires research experienceDegree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; focus on design certifications may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsDesign departments, product development teams, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, research institutions, universitiesHardware manufacturing companies, consumer electronics, embedded systems
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, innovation focusUnderstanding design processes, product development

Hardware Research involves exploring new technologies, conducting experiments, and advancing hardware capabilities. Hardware Design focuses on creating detailed specifications, schematics, and prototypes for hardware products. While both roles require technical expertise in electrical engineering, research emphasizes innovation and experimentation, whereas design emphasizes practical implementation and product development.

More about Hardware Research jobs

What states have the most Hardware Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hardware Research jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Hardware Research jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Hardware Research jobs are:

Hardware Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,154 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Hardware R&D Validation Engineer

Protingent

Bellevue, WA • On-site

$45 - $70/hr

Contractor

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description


Position Title: Hardware R&D Validation Engineer
Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract opportunity for a Hardware R&D Validation Engineer with our client located in Bellevue, Washington (Onsite).
Job Description:
  • This is a high-impact role sitting at the intersection of design and testing, perfect for a technical "Swiss Army Knife" who thrives in the early stages of product development.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Our client is seeking a proactive engineer/technician to bridge the gap between initial design and final validation. You will be the primary driver for bringing new hardware to life and ensuring the R&D team has a stable platform for testing.
  • First-Article Platform Bring-up: Lead the initial power-on and functional verification of prototype boards (PCBA); troubleshoot power sequencing, clocks, and basic communication interfaces.
  • R&D Rework & Prototyping: Perform high-precision soldering and "white-wire" modifications on dense PCBs to implement design fixes or enable specific test scenarios.
  • System-Level Triage: Debug platform-level issues by identifying whether failures originate in the hardware (signal integrity/components), firmware, or the Linux OS environment.
  • Layout & Schematic Support: Utilize Altium (or similar) to update schematics and PCB layouts based on R&D discoveries, ensuring design documentation matches the physical prototypes.
  • Firmware & Environment Management: Flash and debug firmware (MCU/FPGA), manage Linux-based test environments, and use command-line tools to monitor system health and logs.

Job Qualifications:
  • Experience Level: No Bachelor's degree required; proven "hands-on" R&D or lab experience is the priority.
  • Hardware Intuition: Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles with the ability to "read" a board and understand signal flow.
  • Mastery of the Bench: Expert-level soldering and rework skills (BGA, 0201 components, trace cutting, and jumping).
  • Problem-Solving: A "root-cause" mindset-you don't just report a failure; you investigate why it happened and how to fix it physically.
  • Independence: Ability to take a raw prototype and a schematic and figure out the path to a functional "heartbeat."

Preferred Job Qualifications:
  • Validation Tooling: Experience designing custom test fixtures or "bed-of-nails" setups to automate R&D measurements.
  • Scripting: Proficiency in Python or Bash for automating repetitive hardware tests or parsing serial data.
  • Embedded Fundamentals: Familiarity with microcontrollers and low-level protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, PCIe) using logic analyzers and high-speed scopes.
  • Design Tools: Strong preference for candidates with Altium Designer experience for schematic and layout tweaks.OS Proficiency: Deep comfort within a Linux/Unix command-line environment for system configuration and debugging.

Job Details:
  • Job Type: Contract
  • Pay Rate Range: $45/hr-$70/hr.
  • Location: Bellevue, WA (Onsite).

Benefits Package: Protingent offers competitive salaries, insurance plan options (HDHP plan or POS plan), education/certification reimbursement, pre-tax commuter benefits, Paid Time Off (PTO), and an administered 401k plan.
About Protingent: Protingent is an Award-Winning provider of top-tier Engineering and IT talent, trusted by companies at the forefront of innovation - from Software and Aerospace to AI, Clean Tech, Medical Devices, and Connected Technologies. We're passionate about making a positive impact by connecting exceptional talent with meaningful opportunities and helping our clients build the future.
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