1

Search Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in data architecture, search technologies, and ... The Elastic Architect/Engineer is a critical role responsible for the design, implementation ...

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in data architecture, search technologies, and ... The Elastic Architect/Engineer is a critical role responsible for the design, implementation ...

Senior Software Engineer

Reston, VA

$127K - $168K/yr

... search engineering, or analytics platform experience, including 4+ years leading a major technical service area or team. * Strong experience designing and delivering administrative/control-plane ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Search Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$56

$70

$92

How much do search engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for search engineer in Virginia is $70.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.77 and $81.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the search engineer role?

A search engineer designs, develops, and maintains search engine systems and algorithms to improve search accuracy and performance. They often work with data structures, indexing, and information retrieval techniques, and may use tools like Elasticsearch or Solr. Strong programming skills and understanding of machine learning are typically required.

How does a Search Engineer typically collaborate with other teams to improve search functionality?

Search Engineers often work closely with product managers, data scientists, and UX designers to understand user needs and analyze search performance. They collaborate with data engineering teams to ensure high-quality and well-structured data feeds, and frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to align on feature priorities and technical requirements. Effective communication skills are essential, as Search Engineers must translate complex technical concepts into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders, ensuring that improvements enhance both search accuracy and overall user experience.

What is the difference between Search Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectSearch EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS, EE, or related; experience in search algorithmsBachelor's or higher in CS, Statistics, or related; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentTech companies, search engine teams, e-commerce platformsResearch labs, tech firms, finance, healthcare
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in search technology, e-commerce, and online servicesAcross industries like tech, finance, healthcare, and research

Search Engineers focus on developing and optimizing search algorithms and systems, while Data Scientists analyze data to extract insights and inform decisions. Both roles require strong technical skills, but Search Engineers are more specialized in search technology development, whereas Data Scientists work broadly with data analysis and modeling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Search Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Search Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science, expertise in information retrieval, and strong programming skills, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with search platforms like Elasticsearch or Solr, experience with large-scale distributed systems, and knowledge of ranking algorithms are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for building efficient, relevant search experiences that meet both user and business needs.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Search Engineer can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month through specialized skills in search algorithms, data analysis, and programming, often in tech companies or startups. Success typically requires strong technical expertise, experience, and sometimes certifications, but a formal degree is not always mandatory if skills are demonstrated effectively.

What are Search Engineers?

Search Engineers are specialized software engineers who design, build, and improve search systems that help users find relevant information quickly and efficiently. Their work often involves developing algorithms for indexing, querying, and ranking large volumes of data, as well as optimizing search accuracy and speed. Search Engineers may also work with natural language processing, machine learning, and relevance tuning to enhance the user search experience on websites, apps, or internal databases.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those with expertise in areas like machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. High-level roles in tech companies, such as staff or principal engineers, typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications or specialized knowledge. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual performance.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those working in high-demand fields like machine learning, cloud computing, or at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

What Does a Search Engineer Do?

A search engineer has two primary responsibilities: to develop and program search engines and to optimize web content to achieve the best possible rankings in search results. As a search engineer, your job duties depend on your employer. If you work for a search engine company, like Google or Bing, then your job is to create the web application and algorithms that index websites and web pages to aggregate and rank search results. If you work for an e-commerce website or another business reliant on products or services, then your focus is on website analysis, keyword research, and content marketing.

Infographic showing various Search Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,400 per year, or $70.4 per hour.
TAK Elastic Search Software Engineer

TAK Elastic Search Software Engineer

ManTech

Herndon, VA

Other

Posted 6 days ago


ManTech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 190 rated software companies


Job description

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented TAK Elastic Search Software Engineer to join our team.

The TAK Elastic Search Software Engineer will leverage their strong technical background and knowledge to support the Sponsor's system accreditation efforts, to include creating Body of Evidence (BOE) documentation, responding to/implementing/documenting required controls, and completing required tasks/actions.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • You will provide development and search configuration efforts for TAK Product Center core development initiatives.

  • This role involves identifying areas where technology can improve current processes through automation and advanced data management.

  • Participate in the full software development life cycle, including the architecture, development, testing, and deployment of software solutions.

  • Design, prototype, and implement applications using web technologies such as JavaScript, HTML, HTML5, and CSS.

  • Develop robust software solutions across Android, iOS, and Windows-based platforms

  • Apply TAK development standards and methodologies, including continuous integration pipelines and Agile practices.

  • Work with Data Analysts, Scientists, and Engineers to create, troubleshoot, and recommend appropriate user interface capabilities.

  • Collaborate with customers to enhance user experience and implementation requirements while maintaining a security-first approach.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

  • 3+ years' experience with Android, Windows, and iOS development.

  • Expert knowledge in Elasticsearch setup, configuration, maintenance, and search optimization.

  • Proficient in various frameworks and code languages including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, Python, JSON, and Ruby

  • Experience with Git and containerization such as Docker or Kubernetes,

  • Demonstrated ability to query databases, optimize performance, and facilitate complex database design in SQL and No-SQL environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP certification).

  • Experience with cyber risk and compliance automation tools.

  • Advanced experience with TAK development standards and methodologies

Clearance Requirements:

  • Active Secret clearance is required with the ability to obtain and maintain TS/SCI.

Physical Requirements:

  • You must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.

  • You will need to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets and office machinery.

  • This role requires you to frequently communicate with co-workers, management, and customers.

  • You must be able to exchange accurate information in all professional situations.

MANTECH International Corporation considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.


What ManTech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom