Computer Hardware Engineer

Answer 1

Computer hardware engineers design, research, maintain, and implement computer hardware solutions for businesses, organizations, and governments. Computer hardware includes just about any physical aspect of the computing process. This makes the hardware engineer responsible for maintaining servers, recommending and installing upgrades, and essentially just ensuring that the client’s hardware needs are met. Many of the recent advances in computing technology have come about in a large part due to the efforts of hardware engineers across the world.

Computer hardware engineering positions are in high demand in the commercial, industrial, military, and scientific fields. This demand is reflected in their high annual earnings, with hardware engineers earning on average $101,410 a year. Starting wages for this career start at $60,690 a year. (Reference: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes172061.htm) In addition, this demand also provides the engineer with a wide range of job possibilities. For example, a computer hardware engineer working in the military sector might work in the development of new high-tech weapons systems, whereas an engineer working in academia might design new chips and processors to aid in research. Most hardware engineers find employment in the private sector, with most working for computer and chip manufacturers such as Intel and AMD.

To become a computer hardware engineer one must first attain a college degree in the subject. Computer hardware engineering programs are known to be grueling and require a high degree of knowledge of science and mathematics. Typical coursework for a computer hardware engineering student involves advanced classed in physics, mathematics, and computer science. Some programs also require that their engineers study a foreign language and complete other general education requirements. Most jobs require a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, while some higher paying ones necessitate a Masters degree at the minimum. Regardless, expect to spend at least four years in an engineering program at a major university. Computer hardware engineering positions are very competitive and outstanding academic performance at a highly ranked institution is a must.

So for those interested in the design and implementation of hardware solutions, a career in computer hardware engineering should not be overlooked.

Answer 2

Andrew Taylor