Computer Engineer
A Computer Engineer specializes in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware components, such as chips, circuit boards, and routers, across various industries. They play a vital role in the entire product development lifecycle, from creating blueprints and testing prototypes to ensuring compatibility with software systems. Typically employed in research laboratories, manufacturing, or development firms, these professionals often work in metropolitan areas and may have opportunities to telecommute as technology advances.
To pursue a career in this field, individuals generally need a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or a related area, with many obtaining their education from ABET-accredited institutions. Entry-level positions usually do not require prior work experience, but internships during college can be beneficial. Computer Engineers are problem solvers who must communicate effectively and collaborate with colleagues, including software developers and technology vendors. With a yearly average earnings of around $138,080 and promising job growth projected at 5%, the profession attracts those passionate about technology and continuous learning in an ever-evolving field.
Computer Engineer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Finance, Information Technology, Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Computer science, solving problems, communicating with others, collaborating with others
Earnings (Yearly Average): $138,080 per year $66.38 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 5% (Faster than average)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Computer hardware engineers plan, design, and test computer components for a variety of industries. These components include computer chips, circuit boards, routers, and more. Computer engineers are involved in each stage of the development process, including designing blueprints, testing the components, and analyzing the results. They are also involved in the manufacturing process. Engineers sometimes work with computer software engineers to make sure that the hardware and software components work together correctly.
Work Environment. Computer engineers typically work in research laboratories, where they build and test an assortment of computer models. While the environments of these laboratories can vary, most of them are located in metropolitan areas. Manufacturing, design, or research-and-development firms commonly employ computer engineers. As communication technology improves, some engineers may be able to telecommute. While they typically work full time—forty hours per week—the work may occasionally require overtime.
Occupation Interest. The computer engineering profession tends to attract individuals with a strong background in computer science and hardware. Most have a degree in computer engineering from an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)–accredited school. Computer engineers are problem solvers who enjoy figuring out the best solution to computer-related problems. They should also be able to communicate and collaborate with others in the field. Engineers should be interested in the latest technology and be willing to continue their education throughout their careers.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Computer engineers use their education and skills to design, develop, and test new computer hardware and components. These include computer systems, computer chips, and the physical parts of computers. Engineers are also involved in the design and development of new routers, printers, and keyboards. Their daily responsibilities vary depending on the project. Meetings may be held throughout the day with other engineers, technology vendors, and various other employees.
Computer engineers are normally involved in the entire process of product development and implementation. This includes the manufacturing process. Throughout the day, an engineer will provide technical support to other employees, including designers, the marketing department, and technology vendors. As computer technology is developed and created, engineers will perform tests and ensure that everything meets specifications and requirements. This testing process usually involves analyzing test data, product prototypes, or theoretical models. As new hardware is implemented, an engineer will monitor how it is functioning and make any modifications necessary so that it performs according to specifications. Engineers also make recommendations for additional hardware, such as keyboards, routers, and printers.
When new components are designed and manufactured, engineers have to make sure that the hardware is compatible with software developments. Because of this, hardware engineers collaborate closely with software developers throughout the process.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Research laboratories predominate. At these laboratories, computer engineers design, develop, and build a broad range of computer models, both physical and theoretical. This is also where they test the models. These laboratories are often well-lit, very clean, and well-ventilated.
Human Environment. Throughout the day, computer engineers will communicate and collaborate with a variety of other professionals in the field, including software developers, sales departments, technology vendors, manufacturers, and other engineers.
Technological Environment. Computer engineers work with a wide variety of computer-related technologies, including systems, hardware, and software. They also work with both physical and theoretical computer models. During the design and manufacturing process, blueprints and specifications are used. Servers that store massive amounts of data are also implemented.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Normally employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or an equivalent GED certificate. There are several basic and advanced high school courses that will greatly benefit a student interested in becoming a computer engineer. Courses in computer science, mathematics, and engineering will give a student a good background in the fundamentals of the profession. Extracurricular computer clubs are sometimes available; such a club would also benefit those interested in computer engineering.
Postsecondary. Employers typically require a computer engineer to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Some employers require that an engineer have a degree from an ABET-accredited school. The majority of entry-level professionals have a degree in computer engineering, but employers usually accept electrical engineering degrees as well. Students should make sure they take the appropriate postsecondary courses that give them a strong background in math and science. Some students may take internships while in college to gain practical experience.
Some technical schools offer programs in computer and electronics technology, which typically include instruction in circuits, systems, and specialized techniques used in the field. Students are given formal classroom instruction as well as the opportunity for practical application in a laboratory setting. Many of these technical schools offer job placement programs, and they are a great place to network with more experienced professionals.
Since computer engineers work closely with computer software systems, professionals need a solid background in computer programming as well. Most computer engineering curricula include computer science courses that can give a student experience with programming.
Specialized jobs in computer engineering and some large firms may require a master’s degree. These degrees commonly take two years to complete. Many computer engineers take graduate courses after beginning their careers in the field, which allows them to acquire work experience while pursuing their master’s degree.
Related Occupations
− Computer & Information Systems Manager
− Information Security Analyst
− Information Technology Project Manager
− Network & Computer Systems Administrator
Bibliography
"Computer Hardware Engineers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm. Accessed 28 Apr. 2024.