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Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer Jobs

SoloPoint Solutions

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Electrical Hardware Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

$70 - $85/hr

Comfortable working with electrical loads , circuits , control systems , motors , and industrial or ... engineering and development process. To see all our open jobs, visit this website: We greatly ...

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Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer information

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$67K

$121.8K

$172.5K

How much do independent contractor electrical hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor electrical hardware engineer in the United States is $121,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor electrical hardware engineers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Independent contractor electrical hardware engineers often face challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring clear communication with clients, and staying updated with evolving industry standards. To address these, it’s important to establish structured project management processes, set clear expectations with clients from the outset, and regularly participate in professional development activities. Additionally, building a network of trusted suppliers and collaborators can help streamline workflows and resolve technical issues more efficiently.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer vs Electrical Design Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Electrical Hardware EngineerElectrical Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, relevant certifications, and industry experienceRequires a degree in electrical engineering, professional licensure (e.g., PE), and design certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance or contract basis, often working remotely or on-site for multiple clientsFull-time employment in corporate, manufacturing, or consulting firms, primarily office-based
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by clients seeking specialized, project-based electrical hardware expertiseEmployed by companies designing electrical systems for products, infrastructure, or machinery

In summary, Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineers work on a contractual basis, offering specialized expertise for specific projects, while Electrical Design Engineers are typically employed full-time within organizations to develop electrical systems. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What is an Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer?

An Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer is a self-employed professional who designs, develops, tests, and manages electrical hardware systems and components for various clients or organizations on a contract basis. Unlike traditional employees, independent contractors work on specific projects or assignments, often for multiple clients, and are responsible for managing their own business operations, taxes, and insurance. Their work can include circuit board design, prototyping, troubleshooting, and collaborating with other engineering teams to deliver functional hardware solutions. This role is common in industries such as consumer electronics, automotive, telecommunications, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and troubleshooting, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Altium Designer, OrCAD, and SPICE simulation software, as well as knowledge of relevant safety and compliance certifications, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective communication with clients are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure high-quality, reliable hardware designs and successful project delivery in a competitive, client-driven environment.
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What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Hardware Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Electrical Hardware Engineer jobs are:
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Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Electrical Hardware Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,794 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Electrical Hardware Engineer

LIGHTPATH TECHNOLOGIES 1

Plano, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

LightPath Technologies, Inc. is a leading global provider of precision optics and photonics solutions, serving defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. With decades of expertise and a strong culture of innovation, LightPath designs and manufactures advanced optical components and systems that power some of the world’s most demanding applications. We offer a collaborative, technology-driven environment, opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ health, growth, and work-life balance.

We are currently looking for a Electrical Hardware Engineer to join our team onsite in our Plano, TX office. We offer a 9/80 work schedule and foster a professional, high-energy culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

This position will design and develop electronic hardware for advanced imaging systems and supporting peripherals. This role involves schematic design, component selection, board layout review, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality products. The engineer will generate schematics of new electronic board designs, choose appropriate components for the bill of materials and review layouts to insure good design practices. Engineer may also need to generate code in microcontrollers using C. Engineer may need to create algorithm using JAVA, Python or equivalent for testing, analyzing or processing external data. The Engineer will work within a small team of multi-disciplined engineers to ultimately deliver a final design product to the customer. 

Responsibilities:

  • Interpret initial requirements to develop new design concepts
  • Generate Schematics for the electronic board designs
  • Select components for new board designs
  • Ensure schematic and board layouts are compliant with component data sheets
  • Oversee layouts of electronic board designs and ensure best practices are followed
  • Assist other team members with troubleshooting and design
  • Participate in design reviews of multi-discipline designs
  • Assist team in generating new proposals
  • Python, C
  • Experience with embedded real time microprocessor systems
  • Experience with design of Digital and power supply hardware
  • Experience with imaging systems, particularly infrared and night vision a plus
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:

  • B.S. or M.S. in Engineering or Science or similar field at an accredited institution.
  • A minimum of two (2) years of experience in new product development
  • Must be authorized to work and reside in the US and must be a US Citizen to obtain any required security clearance from the U.S. Government or Department of Defense.

Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills Required:

  • Excellent communication skills with internal departments, external vendors, and customers
  • Fast learner, driven problem solver.
  • Outgoing personality, professional demeanor with excellent work ethic.
  • A basic understanding and experience with following software would be advantageous: Microsoft Excel, Visual Basic, Microsoft Access, Infor VISUAL, other Microsoft Office tools including Project, Power Bi, and Visual Basic.
  • Experience with optics and/or optical systems a plus.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak fluently in English

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