How much does a Hardware Engineer make?
A Hardware Engineer plays a key role in the tech industry. They design and develop computer hardware. This job can be very rewarding. The average yearly salary for a Hardware Engineer is around $137,964. This means many people in this field earn a good living.
The salary for a Hardware Engineer can vary. Some earn less than $55,000 a year. Others earn more than $244,000. Most earn between $89,364 and $192,455. This range shows that experience and skills can greatly affect earnings. Engineers with more experience and specialized skills often earn more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Hardware Engineer?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $154,563
Seattle offers a thriving tech scene with many opportunities for those in the hardware field. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are always on the lookout for skilled engineers. The city's innovative environment makes it a great place to grow.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $149,257
San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a hotspot for tech companies. Engineers here work on cutting-edge projects with firms like Intel and Apple. The city's dynamic atmosphere fosters professional growth and innovation.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $147,336
In San Diego, hardware engineers find a mix of tech startups and established companies. Qualcomm and Northrop Grumman offer exciting projects. The city's mild climate and beautiful beaches make it a pleasant place to live and work.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $144,718
Austin is known for its vibrant tech industry, with companies like Dell and Tesla hiring hardware experts. The city's laid-back culture and numerous festivals provide a balanced lifestyle. It's a great place for both work and leisure.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $143,094
San Francisco is a tech hub with many opportunities for hardware engineers. Companies like Google and Facebook are always in need of skilled talent. The city's diverse culture and scenic views add to its appeal.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $134,409
Denver offers a mix of outdoor activities and tech opportunities. Engineers here work with companies like Lockheed Martin and Cisco. The city's high altitude and beautiful mountains provide a unique backdrop for both work and recreation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $133,553
Los Angeles is a major center for the entertainment and tech industries. Engineers here collaborate with companies like Sony and Raytheon. The city's diverse culture and warm climate make it an attractive place to live and work.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $132,559
Santa Rosa offers a quieter, yet vibrant tech scene. Engineers here work with companies like Qualcomm and Intel. The city's proximity to wine country and beautiful parks provide a pleasant lifestyle.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $127,725
St. Louis is a growing tech hub with opportunities for hardware engineers. Companies like Boeing and Emerson offer exciting projects. The city's rich history and affordable cost of living make it an attractive option.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $122,781
Raleigh, known as the 'City of Oaks', is a tech-friendly city with many opportunities. Engineers here work with companies like IBM and Red Hat. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities provide a balanced lifestyle.
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What are the best companies a Hardware Engineer can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $202,457
Apple offers exciting opportunities for Hardware Engineers. They work on cutting-edge technology in locations like Cupertino, California, and other locations worldwide. Apple focuses on creating innovative products that shape the future.
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Super Micro Computer, Inc.
Average Salary: $174,000
Super Micro Computer, Inc. provides rewarding roles for Hardware Engineers. They operate in locations such as San Jose, California, and other global sites. They specialize in server, storage, and networking solutions.
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InterImage
Average Salary: $172,422
InterImage offers competitive salaries for Hardware Engineers. They work in locations like San Diego, California. They focus on advanced imaging and hardware solutions for various industries.
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Qualcomm
Average Salary: $170,994
Qualcomm provides excellent opportunities for Hardware Engineers. They operate in locations such as San Diego, California, and other global sites. They are leaders in wireless technology and semiconductor products.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $170,951
Randstad offers diverse roles for Hardware Engineers. They work in locations like Diemen, Netherlands, and other global sites. They focus on connecting talent with opportunities in various industries.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $169,170
Microsoft offers exciting opportunities for Hardware Engineers. They work in locations like Redmond, Washington, and other global sites. They focus on creating innovative software and hardware solutions.
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Viasat
Average Salary: $168,060
Viasat provides rewarding roles for Hardware Engineers. They operate in locations like Carlsbad, California, and other global sites. They specialize in satellite communications and networking solutions.
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General Motors
Average Salary: $167,638
General Motors offers competitive salaries for Hardware Engineers. They work in locations like Detroit, Michigan, and other global sites. They focus on automotive technology and innovation.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $165,810
BAE Systems USA provides excellent opportunities for Hardware Engineers. They operate in locations like Arlington, Virginia, and other global sites. They focus on defense, security, and aerospace technology.
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NVIDIA
Average Salary: $164,411
NVIDIA offers exciting roles for Hardware Engineers. They work in locations like Santa Clara, California, and other global sites. They specialize in graphics processing units and AI technology.
How to earn more as a Hardware Engineer?
A Hardware Engineer can find several ways to increase their earnings. Focusing on specific areas can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities. One key factor is gaining specialized certifications. These certifications can validate skills and knowledge, making a candidate more attractive to employers. Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas such as embedded systems or robotics. These areas often offer higher pay due to their complexity and importance.
Networking also plays a crucial role in earning more. Building connections with industry professionals can lead to job opportunities that pay better. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help in this regard. Another factor is pursuing advanced degrees. A master's or Ph.D. in a related field can open doors to higher-paying positions. Finally, staying updated with the latest technologies and trends can make a Hardware Engineer more valuable. This continuous learning can lead to promotions and salary increases over time.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Hardware Engineer:
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Network with industry professionals
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Stay updated with the latest technologies



