How to become A Computer Hardware Engineer

• PC Hardware Engineer
• Computer Designer
• Chip Architect
• Electrical Engineer
• Computer Architect
• Computer Hardware and Network Engineer

What do Computer Hardware Engineers do?

A Computer Hardware Engineer would typically need to:

• Design new computer hardware systems, components, and peripherals by creating schematics of computer equipment to be built; draft blueprints using a drafting program such as AutoCAD
• Test the computer equipment they design, including electronic circuits, assemblies, and other electrical components, analyze the test results, and optimize/modify the design as needed
• Oversee the manufacturing process to create the physical components that make computers run
• Update existing computer systems to ensure compatibility with the latest software iterations
• Recommend computer systems and peripherals based on end-users' business needs
• Build non-computer devices with embedded IT systems, such as medical devices and automobiles

Computer Hardware Engineers work in offices, laboratories, or manufacturing firms. They work at computer workstations or oversee the installation or testing of equipment under safe and sterile conditions. More than 95 percent of Computer Hardware Engineers work in metropolitan areas. The dress code depends on the location, sector, size, and type of company.

Computer Hardware Engineers typically work a standard 40-hour workweek; however, it may be necessary to work evenings or weekends to meet deadlines.

Recent graduates can start their job search by connecting with other engineering professionals, such as those they met in prior internships. They can also attend job fairs, in which several employers set up booths and interview candidates.

Computer Hardware Engineers are generally employed by: 

• Computer Systems Design Companies
• Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturers
• Semiconductor Manufacturers
• Research Firms
• Government

Professional associations and organizations are a crucial resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more looks excellent on your resume to bolster your credentials and qualifications as a Computer Hardware Engineer.

• Extreme competition in the job market, especially for entry-level jobs, given a projected below-average growth rate
• Job pressure due to deadlines and the need to stay updated with the latest technology

Applicants with demonstrated expertise in these areas have a leg up on the competition and often demand higher earning potential. Internships also allow learners to gain hands-on experience. Major technology corporations often offer internships to qualified Computer Hardware Engineers.

Interns work side-by-side with experienced professionals to gain insight into their responsibilities and methods. Some students participate in internships while in school so that they can gain practical experience.

While in school, students can compile portfolios through projects and labs to help build their resumes. For example, circuits labs and classes help degree candidates hone their board engineering skills. Students who complete projects in their labs may outline their accomplishments, methods, and results in their portfolios. These pages may also include pictures and feedback from professors. Students may also participate in competitions related to their degrees, such as robotics competitions, to further build their portfolios.

Most entry-level Computer Hardware Engineers have an accredited bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical and electronics engineering, computer science, computer telecommunications, or systems, and networking.

To prepare for a major in computer or electrical engineering, students should have a solid background in math and science., obtained easily through computer science courses Since Computer Hardware Engineers commonly work with computer software systems, a familiarity with computer programming is usually expected.

To succeed, Computer Hardware Engineers need to master several programming languages, electronics engineering, digital circuit design, signal processing, advanced logic and arithmetic, 2D/3D drafting, engineering design, computer testing, quality control/assurance, software systems engineering, and application development. Students usually learn these skills in bachelor’s programs.

Graduate degrees allow professionals to specialize in specific areas, such as microsystems technology and hardware security. These concentrations allow professionals to fill high-demand positions.

Students may pursue both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer engineering online. Some universities offer hybrid programs, in which learners must attend labs on-campus. Fully online programs use simulated laboratories for these tasks instead. Online degree candidates may also need to construct projects at home.

Some large firms or specialized jobs may require a master’s degree in computer engineering. Some students earn doctorates in subjects like robotics and bioengineering. Such fields rely on Computer Hardware Engineering but take it to the next level with innovation and programming.

New Computer Hardware Engineers can qualify for their first jobs with degrees and experience, but recent graduates often struggle to obtain professional experience. Those who failed to complete internships or who need an extra boost can earn specialized credentials to add to their resumes.

Certifications represent the most recognizable credentials for these professionals. Candidates can earn certifications through professional organizations and universities. Graduates should choose their certifications based on their skill sets and positions of choice. For example, prospective cybersecurity professionals can earn certifications like the Certified Computer Security Incident Handler credential.

Learners use their degree knowledge in certification exams, or to take courses online to develop the skills for their desired career paths. Some manufacturers and tech companies, including Microsoft and Cisco, offer certifications in their products. Employers who work exclusively with technologies from these companies highly value such credentials.

Some Computer Hardware Engineers can advance to become Computer and Information Systems Managers. Students who major in Computer Hardware Engineering can pursue work in the same field or opt for a different career path. For example, some Computer Hardware Engineering graduates choose to work in aerospace engineering. Hardware in many commercial cockpits needs updating, thus intertwining the two fields.

Other recent graduates find work in electrical or electronics engineering. The processes for designing, testing, analyzing, and manufacturing pieces remain the same for electronics engineering as they would for Hardware Engineering. Electrical engineers simply apply these methods to different products.

An increase in hardware startup firms and the ongoing increase in devices with computer chips embedded in them, such as household appliances, medical devices, and automobiles, may lead to some job growth for Computer Hardware Engineers.

With intense competition in the field, candidates must set themselves apart with excellent academic performance and certifications. Some experienced Computer Hardware Engineers obtain a master’s degree in business administration (MBA). All engineers must continue their learning throughout their careers to keep up with rapid advances in technology. For the best chances of landing a job in this space, enhance your Computer Hardware Engineering education with coursework in software engineering, a complementary and extremely in-demand skill set. Computer Hardware Engineers can choose between several certifications, depending on their professional experience and career aspirations. For example, engineers aiming to work with specific types of hardware in senior positions can earn credentials specifically for those products.

Computer Hardware Engineers do not need to maintain certification for legal reasons, but continuing education can help candidates stay current on the latest technologies. Engineers can take online courses and examinations to earn these credentials. Some of these courses come from universities, but manufacturers themselves often offer them as well.

Professional organizations also provide new workers with opportunities for advancement. Some organizations offer career mentors, networking events, resume reviews, and interview practice, along with certification and continuing education opportunities to help candidates stand out.

Computer Hardware Engineers combine expertise in technology, electronics, and engineering to design and build computers. They also develop individual components for computer systems, including microchips, processors, circuit boards, and computing peripherals such as routers, keyboards, and printers. Opportunities to Design a Variety of Devices Many hardware engineers design devices used in manufactured products that incorporate processors and other computer components that connect to the internet. For example, many new cars, home appliances, and medical devices have internet-ready computer systems built into them.

Computer Hardware Engineers also enjoy opportunities to work on exciting emerging technology in this era of quick computer advancement—for example, some design artificial intelligence and virtual reality machines. They may assist sales and marketing staff in explaining new hardware systems to prospective clients. Next Steps Some companies or highly specialized roles may require a master's or another advanced degree; once you're working as a Computer Hardware Engineer you will have a better idea of the most valuable next steps in your learning plan.

Professionals in computer systems design must hold foundational knowledge of software, as they often work with programmers. Hardware Engineers in computer equipment or semiconductor manufacturing benefit from developing project management skills because they oversee designs through the manufacturing process.

Those working for research firms often need master’s degrees, which help them gain research skills. Students can sometimes work as research assistants while completing their graduate degrees. Computer Hardware Engineers who work for the government must first pass rigorous background checks. Bringing Home the Paycheck Companies in some metropolitan areas pay Hardware Engineers above-average wages to recruit the best talent possible. Many of these high-paying areas also employ some of the most advanced engineers. Since Computer Hardware Engineers rarely work remotely, it is crucial for candidates to consider the base computer engineering salary and the local cost of living. Computer Science or Computer Engineering? With salaries and workforce demand for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) graduates at an all-time high, two red-hot majors that prospective students must be familiar with are Computer Science and Computer Engineering.

However, many prospects are confused about what these programs entail due to overlapping coursework, and the comprehensive leeway schools have in developing IT curricula.

Both majors are heavy in theory, and practical application, which is vital for building a strong knowledge base for a range of IT careers, however, the key difference is that computer science focuses on software, while computer engineering is more about the hardware.

A Computer Hardware Engineer may work to green your PC and help your computer save power.

As technology continues to play a vital and an ever-increasing role in our everyday lives, those professionals with the skills to develop the next generation of computer systems will remain in high demand. With hot and emerging hardware trends like sensors and 3D printing and the continued advancement and proliferation of mobile devices, it is now an exciting time to be a Computer Hardware Engineer.

Be nice to nerds. Chances are you’ll end up working for one.