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Hardware Startup Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

IQT

Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

You will also provide systems engineering support to startup companies as they mature their ... Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility ...

IQT

Technology Architect - Hardware

Mclean, VA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

... backed startup ecosystem, both for immediate mission needs and long-term readiness. The Technology Architect team is responsible for identifying and executing investments in technology areas ...

IQT

Technology Architect - Hardware

Mclean, VA

... backed startup ecosystem, both for immediate mission needs and long-term readiness. The Technology Architect team is responsible for identifying and executing investments in technology areas ...

IQT

Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA

You will also provide systems engineering support to startup companies as they mature their ... Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility ...

IQT

Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

You will also provide systems engineering support to startup companies as they mature their ... Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility ...

IQT

Technology Architect Hardware

Mclean, VA · Hybrid

... backed startup ecosystem, both for immediate mission needs and long-term readiness. The Technology Architect team is responsible for identifying and executing investments in technology areas ...

IQT

Systems Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$138K - $180K/yr

You will also provide systems engineering support to startup companies as they mature their ... Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility ...

Valinor

Software Engineer, Edge AI

Washington, DC · On-site

... across hardware and software layers • Excited to build from the ground up in a startup environment • Willing to travel occasionally and collaborate hands-on with hardware in lab settings ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tech Specialist 2 (BMS and EMCS)

Tysons, VA · On-site

$42K/yr

The role performs startup, point-to-point verification, and sequence testing (L3), supports ... Dean facilities in Tysons, Ruther Glen, or Harrisonburg, VA, as well as software and hardware ...

Molg

Technical Program Manager

Sterling, VA · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We work with hyperscalers and leading electronics manufacturers to automate how hardware is ... in a fast-moving startup environment. * Establish lightweight, scalable program management ...

Darksaber Labs

DSP Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

About Darksaber Labs A new Defense Tech startup focused on building next gen EW systems. About the ... Conduct research and development on current and future hardware. Qualifications * Security ...

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Hardware Startup information

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How much do hardware startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware startup in Washington is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hardware startup?

A hardware startup is a company focused on designing, developing, and bringing to market physical products or devices that typically incorporate electronics, mechanics, or related technologies. These startups often work on innovative consumer gadgets, industrial equipment, or connected devices (IoT). The process usually involves prototyping, manufacturing, and scaling production, which can present unique challenges compared to purely software-based startups. Hardware startups require expertise in product design, engineering, supply chain management, and may need significant capital for manufacturing and distribution.

What are some common challenges faced by team members working at a hardware startup, and how can they be addressed?

Team members at hardware startups often encounter challenges such as tight development timelines, limited resources, and the need to iterate quickly on physical prototypes. Collaboration between engineers, designers, and supply chain specialists is essential to ensure that the product moves efficiently from concept to production. Open communication, flexibility, and a willingness to take on varied responsibilities are key to overcoming these challenges and driving the company’s success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hardware startup founder?

To thrive as a Hardware Startup Founder, you need a solid background in engineering, product development, and business strategy, often supported by relevant degrees or entrepreneurial experience. Familiarity with CAD software, rapid prototyping tools, supply chain management systems, and fundraising platforms is typically essential. Leadership, resilience, and effective communication are standout soft skills for successfully guiding teams and building partnerships. These competencies are crucial for navigating technical challenges, attracting investment, and bringing innovative hardware products to market.

What is the difference between Hardware Startup vs Hardware Engineer?

AspectHardware Startup

AspectHardware Startup

Hardware Startup professionals focus on developing new hardware products from concept to prototype, often working in small teams or startups with a flexible environment. Hardware Engineers typically work within established companies, focusing on designing, testing, and maintaining hardware components. Both roles require technical skills in electronics and engineering, but Hardware Startups emphasize innovation and product development, while Hardware Engineers prioritize reliability and manufacturing processes.

What are popular job titles related to Hardware Startup jobs in Washington? For Hardware Startup jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Startup jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Startup jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Hardware Startup jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Hardware Startup job openings:
Hardware Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hardware Startup job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,937 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Systems Engineer

IQT

Mclean, VA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

$138,369 - $180,034 + bonus eligible. Offers will be commensurate with level of experience.
US-VA-McLean
Hybrid - In Office & Teleworking

As an Engineer at IQT, you will join a multidisciplinary team of builders addressing national security problems. This role balances two key areas: designing and building prototypes that demonstrate new approaches to mission-critical challenges, and providing hands-on systems engineering support to IQT’s portfolio of startup companies as they adapt their commercial technology for government use.

We take a hands-on, rapid-prototyping approach to our work. We leverage commercial technology, open-source software and hardware to build prototypes that solve real operational problems and validate new technical approaches. Our prototypes are tested in the field alongside end users, with the technology ultimately moving to field use when appropriate.

You will also provide systems engineering support to startup companies as they mature their technology for government use. This work includes helping define system architectures, identifying integration challenges, conducting technical assessments, and advising on paths to operational readiness. We build deep relationships with our government partners and act as trusted advisors as they navigate the technology landscape.

Collaboration is non-negotiable. You will work on small, cross-functional teams and be expected to move fast. This requires engineers who are comfortable learning new technical areas quickly, applying proven technology to new areas, and working across both hardware and software. This role includes work in all phases of a project life cycle, including concept development, design, prototyping, integration, testing, evaluation, and customer engagement.


  • Lead technical systems engineering on projects across IQT Engineering, managing project scope, technical risk, and schedule
  • Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility and inform technology decisions
  • Perform systems integration across hardware, software, and network domains, including single board computers, microcontrollers, and communication systems
  • Design, execute, and analyze integration and test activities including bench testing, laboratory validation, and field evaluations
  • Manage technical and schedule risk across projects, identifying mitigation strategies and working with colleagues to minimize overall program risk
  • Develop technical documentation, test reports, and briefing materials for internal and customer audiences
  • Present technical findings via customer briefings, blog posts, conference presentations, and publications, as appropriate
  • Interface with government customers, technical partners, and portfolio companies to understand requirements and demonstrate capabilities
  • Use generative AI tools to efficiently perform the above tasks

  • Due to contractual reasons, U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance (active clearance preferred).
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline
  • 5+ years of relevant professional experience in systems engineering, hardware/software integration, or related technical roles
  • Demonstrated expertise managing technical projects with limited oversight, including breaking down complex problems, managing schedules, and delivering results
  • Hands-on experience with systems integration and testing, including debugging complex hardware/software systems
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team across multiple concurrent projects
  • Fast learner who can quickly assess the merits of different technical approaches and adapt as necessary to achieve project goals
  • Self-motivated contributor with a team-focused mentality and ability to mentor others

PM22


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