Computer Hardware Engineers
What is a Computer Hardware Engineer?
Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work with both hardware and software systems, utilizing a strong understanding of engineering principles to improve existing technologies and create new computer hardware solutions. These engineers engage in the research and development of devices that can enhance performance, increase efficiency, and reduce costs in a variety of applications, including personal computers, servers, embedded systems, and consumer electronics. Their work requires collaboration with other engineering professionals and often involves staying updated on emerging technologies and industry trends. Additionally, Computer Hardware Engineers test and validate their designs, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and specifications while troubleshooting any issues that arise during the development process.
Tasks
- Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology.
- Design and develop computer hardware and support peripherals, including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and printers and disk drives.
- Confer with engineering staff and consult specifications to evaluate interface between hardware and software and operational and performance requirements of overall system.
- Build, test, and modify product prototypes, using working models or theoretical models constructed with computer simulation.
- Write detailed functional specifications that document the hardware development process and support hardware introduction.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
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Desktop communications software
- Eko
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Development environment software
- Object or component oriented development software
Tools Used
- Signal generators
- Electronic measuring probes
- Network analyzers
- Circuit tester
- Integrated circuit testers
Knowledge
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
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Some college, no degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Update technical knowledge.
- Design electronic or computer equipment or instrumentation.
- Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
- Create physical models or prototypes.
- Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$81630.0 - $212770.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.