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Hardware Validation Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Hardware Design Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$125K - $270K/yr

Conduct design verification, validation, and hardware troubleshooting during lab tests. * Collaborate with systems engineers to define and implement electrical interfaces, requirements, and ICDs ...

Hardware Technologies PhD Internships

Washington, DC · On-site

$139K - $184K/yr

In this internship, you will have the opportunity to work among the best engineers in the world on ... Silicon Validation Signal Integrity Power Integrity Packaging & Productization Performance ...

Showing results 41-60

Hardware Validation Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$25

$58

$88

How much do hardware validation engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for hardware validation engineer in Washington is $58.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.66 and $71.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a hardware validation engineer do?

A Hardware Validation Engineer is responsible for testing and verifying that electronic hardware components and systems meet design specifications and function correctly. They develop and execute test plans, analyze test results, and troubleshoot hardware issues. Their work ensures that products are reliable, safe, and ready for mass production. Hardware Validation Engineers often collaborate with design, development, and manufacturing teams to identify and resolve problems early in the product lifecycle.

What are some common challenges faced by hardware validation engineers during the product testing phase?

Hardware Validation Engineers often encounter challenges such as identifying elusive or intermittent hardware bugs, ensuring compatibility with various software and peripheral devices, and meeting tight project deadlines. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—including design, firmware, and manufacturing—can require strong communication and problem-solving skills. Additionally, adapting to evolving test protocols and quickly understanding new hardware architectures are essential for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Hardware Validation Engineer vs Hardware Test Engineer?

AspectHardware Validation EngineerHardware Test Engineer
Primary FocusVerifying hardware functionality and compliance through validation processesExecuting tests to identify hardware defects and performance issues
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of validation protocols, testing tools, and industry standardsProficiency in testing procedures, diagnostic tools, and hardware troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, validation labs, R&D departmentsTesting labs, manufacturing facilities, quality assurance teams
Industry UsageElectronics, consumer devices, automotive, aerospaceElectronics, consumer electronics, hardware manufacturing

While both roles involve testing hardware components, the Hardware Validation Engineer focuses on comprehensive validation and compliance, ensuring products meet specifications before release. The Hardware Test Engineer primarily conducts tests to detect defects and verify performance during development and production stages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hardware validation engineer?

To excel as a Hardware Validation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, hardware testing methodologies, and a relevant degree such as a B.S. in Electrical or Computer Engineering. Familiarity with validation tools like oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and scripting languages (e.g., Python, Perl), as well as experience with hardware simulation and test automation frameworks, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you identify, troubleshoot, and document issues efficiently. These skills ensure the reliability, performance, and quality of hardware products before they reach end users.

What are popular job titles related to Hardware Validation Engineer jobs in Washington?

For Hardware Validation Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hardware Validation Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $122,493 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

IT Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

Honu Services

Washington, DC • On-site

$139K - $183K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Overview Job Summary Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is looking for an enthusiastic, well-qualified individual to fill the IT Hardware Engineer position. This role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse and talented group of individuals committed to driving success. The ideal candidate will design, deploy, test, and sustain enterprise IT hardware systems in classified and unclassified environments. This role provides advanced (Tier 3) technical support for hardware systems, ensuring reliability, security, and compliance with Intelligence Community and DoD information assurance requirements. The Hardware Engineer plays a critical role in life cycle management of IT assets, troubleshooting complex hardware issues, supporting enterprise services, and developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain mission readiness. Key Responsibilities The IT Hardware Engineer will: * Design, deploy, configure, and maintain enterprise IT hardware systems * Conduct hardware testing, validation, and troubleshooting to ensure operational performance * Provide Tier 3 support for complex hardware failures, including root cause analysis and repair coordination * Support and maintain IT equipment, assets, and systems across DIA facilities * Develop, document, and maintain hardware support SOPs and technical procedures * Support hardware life cycle management, including installation, maintenance, upgrades, and decommissioning * Assist with change management, risk management, and IT service management activities * Collaborate with engineering, operations, and cybersecurity teams to support mission requirements * Maintain accurate documentation for hardware configurations, installations, and repairs * Ensure systems comply with information assurance, security, and compliance requirements * Support operations in classified IT environments, following applicable security handling procedures Requirements Skills and Experience The IT Hardware Engineer must have: * Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance * 5+ years of experience designing, deploying, and maintaining enterprise IT hardware systems, preferably within Department of Defense (DoD) or Intelligence Community (IC) environments * Willingness to support after-hours, on-call, or emergency operations as required * Proven hands-on experience with hardware installations, upgrades, system testing, troubleshooting, and enterprise IT service and support environments * Experience providing Tier 3 technical support and resolving complex hardware-related issues * Knowledge of IT asset management, configuration management, and equipment lifecycle processes * Experience with customer relationship management, stakeholder support, change management, risk management, and Information Technology Service Management (ITSM) frameworks * Familiarity with cybersecurity and accreditation standards, including ICD 503, DCID 6/3, DIA-CAP, and applicable NIST guidance * Proficiency working in classified IT environments, including security procedures, operational processes, and classified systems terminology * Experience supporting Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) or Intelligence Community (IC) missions * Familiarity with enterprise hardware infrastructure and facility-based IT systems Education and Certifications The It Hardware Engineer must meet the following: Required * Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline * Relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree * CompTIA Security+ CE or equivalent IAT II certification Preferred * Vendor-specific hardware certifications (Dell, HPE, Cisco, etc.) * ITIL Foundation * Must be compliant with DoD 8140 certification and training requirements Benefits * Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance * Flexible Spending Accounts * 401(k) * PTO * Paid Parental Leave * Tuition reimbursement * Paid federal holidays Security Clearance Must be a U.S. Citizen. A high-level Department of Defense active security clearance is/may be required. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to government information. Physical Requirements Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods of time and typing and reading from a computer screen. The candidate must have enough mobility, including bending, reaching, and kneeling, to complete daily duties in a prompt and efficient manner, and that may include lifting up to thirty pounds, as necessary. Company Summary Headquartered in Hawaii, Galapagos Federal Systems LLC, is an SBA-Certified NHO-owned 8(a) Small Business specializing in global information technology solutions. We deliver professional services in IT Design & Installation, Cybersecurity Engineering & Support, Application Integration & Development, Software & Hardware Engineering, Network & Systems Management, Information Systems Security, and Business Management Services. Leveraging over 30 years of providing IT services to the federal & commercial market with projects found around the world, our team has innovative expertise in the development of a wide range of technological solutions. Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Our service commitment is simple - "Quality IT Solutions... On Time & On Budget." Company Employment Statement Galapagos Federal Systems LLC reserves the right to change or modify job duties and assignments at any time. The above job description is not all encompassing as positions, functions, and qualifications may vary depending on business needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, creed, religion, medical condition, legally protected genetic information, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, or Vietnam era, or other eligible veteran status or legally protected characteristics. Posted Salary Range USD $135,000.00 - USD $145,000.00 /Yr.