Hardware Engineer I — Hands-On Assembly & Mentorship

Socket.dev; Purcellville (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Defense Technology in Purcellville, VA is seeking an Engineering Associate to build and test hardware deployed on missions, learning how designs translate into working systems and troubleshooting issues on the fly.

You will work with senior engineers to develop robust manufacturing processes, documenting and improving build procedures. A BS in EE/Mech and hands-on assembly experience are required; ability to obtain Secret clearance is preferred.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with electrical or mechanical assembly - coursework labs, internships, or personal projects count.
• Comfort reading schematics, drawings, or assembly documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to be corrected - mentorship-focused role.

Responsibilities

• Assemble electrical and/or mechanical subsystems per work instructions and drawings.
• Perform functional testing and troubleshoot defects, escalate design issues.
• Support development/refinement of work instructions, test procedures, and fixtures.
• Document build issues, deviations, and non-conformances accurately.

Skills

Hands-on assembly

Reading schematics/drawings

Attention to detail

Education

BS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Defense Technology in Purcellville, VA is seeking an Engineering Associate to build and test hardware deployed on missions, learning how designs translate into working systems and troubleshooting issues on the fly.

You will work with senior engineers to develop robust manufacturing processes, documenting and improving build procedures. A BS in EE/Mech and hands-on assembly experience are required; ability to obtain Secret clearance is preferred.