Senior Computer Hardware Engineer – Secret Clearance – Remote & Hybrid Flexible Role for Advanced Training Systems Integration

Welcome to Your Next Career Chapter at American Systems

Imagine a workplace where cutting‑edge technology meets a culture of collaboration, where your expertise in hardware engineering directly fuels the nation’s most critical training programs. At American Systems, a premier, employee‑owned government services contractor founded in 1975, we blend decades of engineering excellence with a modern, people‑first philosophy. Recognized by Forbes as a National Best Midsize Company, honored by the Washington Post and Energage for workplace excellence, and celebrated by the Department of Labor for veteran hiring, we are proud to be a trusted partner on complex national priority initiatives across 100+ locations worldwide.

Our mission is simple yet profound: deliver strategic, high‑impact solutions that empower the United States’ defense and training capabilities. As we expand our portfolio of sophisticated training systems, we are seeking a seasoned Computer Hardware Engineer with an active Secret clearance to spearhead hardware integration, drive innovative design, and mentor the next generation of engineers—all while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid work model that balances remote productivity with occasional on‑site collaboration.

Why This Role Stands Out

• Hybrid Flexibility: Split your time between a remote home office and our primary facility in Patuxent River, MD, with the ability to work from any U.S. state.
• Strategic Impact: Directly influence the design and deployment of high‑stakes training systems used by military and government agencies.
• Employee Ownership: Benefit from an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) that aligns your success with the company’s growth.
• Career Growth: Access continuous learning resources, leadership pathways, and cross‑functional project exposure.
• Recognition & Awards: Join a workplace consistently rated among the best for veterans, diversity, and overall employee satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities – What You’ll Do Every Day

As a senior member of our Computer Hardware Engineering team, you will be the technical champion for hardware initiatives that power complex training systems. Your day‑to‑day activities will include, but are not limited to:

• Hardware Architecture & Integration: Lead the full lifecycle of hardware design, from concept through prototyping, testing, and field deployment, ensuring seamless integration with software components.
• Specification Development: Draft, review, and validate detailed hardware specifications, schematics, and bill‑of‑materials (BOM) documents that meet stringent security and performance standards.
• Installation & Field Support: Oversee on‑site installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of computer platforms, peripherals, AV equipment, and custom training devices, coordinating with cross‑functional teams to resolve issues swiftly.
• Testing & Validation: Develop rigorous test plans, execute functional and environmental testing, and document results to certify hardware readiness for mission‑critical deployment.
• Equipment Management: Maintain comprehensive inventories, version control of drawings, manuals, labeling standards, and ensure compliance with federal acquisition regulations.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Transfer: Provide technical guidance, training, and career development support to junior engineers and support staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Liaise with internal program managers, external vendors, and government customers to align deliverables, manage expectations, and ensure on‑time delivery of hardware solutions.
• Security & Compliance: Uphold all aspects of the active Secret clearance, ensuring that design and implementation adhere to classified information handling protocols.

Essential Qualifications – What You Must Bring

To thrive in this role, you need a proven blend of technical expertise, leadership capability, and a commitment to security compliance.

• Active Secret Clearance: Must be current and maintain eligibility throughout employment.
• Professional Experience: Minimum 8 years of hands‑on experience in computer hardware engineering, preferably within defense, aerospace, or high‑security environments.
• Education: Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Operating Systems Proficiency: Strong command of both Linux and Microsoft Windows environments, including driver integration and system configuration.
• Hardware Lifecycle Expertise: Demonstrated ability to install, test, troubleshoot, and maintain complex computer systems, peripherals, and audiovisual equipment.
• Documentation Skills: Ability to produce clear, detailed technical documentation, including schematics, test reports, and user manuals.

Preferred Qualifications – What Sets You Apart

• Advanced certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA, or relevant DoD certifications.
• Experience with embedded systems, FPGA development, or real‑time operating systems (RTOS).
• Background in system integration for simulation or training platforms.
• Prior mentorship or leadership roles within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Familiarity with government acquisition processes (e.g., FAR, DFARS) and ITAR/EAR compliance.

Core Skills & Competencies – Your Toolbox for Success

• Technical Acumen: Deep understanding of computer architecture, digital signal processing, and hardware‑software interfacing.
• Problem Solving: Ability to diagnose complex failures, develop creative solutions, and implement corrective actions under time‑critical conditions.
• Project Management: Experience using Agile, Scrum, or traditional waterfall methodologies to manage deliverables, milestones, and resource allocation.
• Communication: Clear, concise verbal and written communication skills for interacting with technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Proven track record of fostering teamwork across engineering, program management, and external partners.
• Adaptability: Comfortable navigating evolving requirements, emerging technologies, and dynamic mission priorities.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

American Systems is committed to investing in your professional development. In this role, you will have access to:

• Continued Education: Tuition reimbursement, online courses, and certifications to keep you at the forefront of hardware innovation.
• Leadership Pathways: Structured programs that enable transition from technical expert to engineering manager, program lead, or strategic architect.
• Cross‑Functional Exposure: Opportunities to work on multidisciplinary projects, including software development, cybersecurity, and systems engineering.
• Mentorship Programs: Both as a mentor and mentee, you will engage in knowledge‑sharing initiatives that enhance organizational capability.
• Conference Participation: Company support for presenting at industry events, expanding your professional network and visibility.

Work Environment & Company Culture

Our culture is built on four pillars: Integrity, Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact.

• Integrity: We adhere to the highest ethical standards, treating classified information with the utmost care.
• Innovation: Employees are empowered to explore new ideas, experiment with emerging technologies, and drive continuous improvement.
• Inclusion: A diverse workforce is essential to our success. We celebrate differences of thought, background, and perspective, ensuring every voice is heard.
• Impact: Your work directly contributes to national security and the readiness of our armed forces, providing a profound sense of purpose.

Our physical office in Patuxent River, MD, offers modern collaborative spaces, dedicated quiet zones for deep focus, and state‑of‑the‑art labs equipped with the latest testing equipment. For remote days, you receive a home‑office stipend, ergonomic accessories, and secure VPN access to maintain seamless connectivity with the team.

Compensation, Perks, & Benefits

While specific salary figures are tailored to experience and market trends, you can expect a competitive total compensation package that includes:

• Base Salary: Market‑aligned, commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Performance Bonuses: Annual incentives linked to project milestones and individual contributions.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): Share in the company’s long‑term success.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage; health savings accounts (HSAs); and wellness programs.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with company match to help you plan for the future.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Flexible accrual system providing generous vacation, sick, and personal days.
• Family Support: Parental leave, adoption assistance, and dependent care resources.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for certifications, conferences, and advanced training.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling, financial guidance, and legal resources.
• Technology Stipend: Home‑office equipment allowance, secure hardware, and software licenses for remote work.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

American Systems proudly embraces an inclusive environment where all individuals—regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability, or gender identity—can thrive. We have earned multiple recognitions for our veteran hiring initiatives, including the U.S. Department of Labor Hire Vets Medallion, Military Times’ Best for Vets award, and a top‑10 ranking on MilitaryFriendly.com.

How to Apply – Simple, Straightforward, and Fast

If you’re ready to bring your expertise to a purpose‑driven organization, take the next step today. Click the link below to submit your application. Our talent acquisition team will review your credentials promptly and reach out to discuss how you can become a key player in our engineering excellence.

Closing Thoughts – Your Future Starts Here

At American Systems, you won’t just fill a position—you’ll become part of a legacy of innovation that safeguards our nation’s future. From the moment you step into this role, you’ll be empowered to design, integrate, and mentor within a supportive, forward‑thinking environment. We invite you to bring your passion, your experience, and your drive for excellence to a team that values every contribution.

Take the leap. Apply now and help shape the next generation of training technology.