What is a Computer Hardware Engineer?
Computer Hardware Engineer Definition Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.
List of Computer Hardware Engineer Job Duties
- Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan layout, including type of computers and peripheral equipment modifications.
- Analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware.
- Select hardware and material, assuring compliance with specifications and product requirements.
- Write detailed functional specifications that document the hardware development process and support hardware introduction.
- Evaluate factors such as reporting formats required, cost constraints, and need for security restrictions to determine hardware configuration.
- Recommend purchase of equipment to control dust, temperature, and humidity in area of system installation.
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What a Computer Hardware Engineer Should Know
Below is a list of the skills most Computer Hardware Engineers say are important on the job.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
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.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Other Computer Hardware Engineer Job Titles
- Computer Installation Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Supplier Quality Engineer (SQE)
- Computer Engineer
- Hardware Design Engineer
Job Demand for Computer Hardware Engineers
In the United States, there were 73,600 jobs for Computer Hardware Engineer in 2016. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 5.4% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 4,000 new jobs for Computer Hardware Engineer by 2026. There will be an estimated 5,100 positions for Computer Hardware Engineer per year.
The states with the most job growth for Computer Hardware Engineer are North Dakota, Tennessee, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Minnesota, Idaho, or Oklahoma. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
What is the Average Salary of a Computer Hardware Engineer
The average yearly salary of a Computer Hardware Engineer ranges between $66,700 and $172,630.
Computer Hardware Engineers who work in California, District of Columbia, or Maryland, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer Hardware Engineers in different U.S. states.
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $108,040 |
| Arizona | $110,600 |
| Arkansas | $109,810 |
| California | $131,570 |
| Colorado | $117,120 |
| Connecticut | $105,980 |
| District of Columbia | $126,770 |
| Florida | $97,830 |
| Georgia | $100,190 |
| Hawaii | $96,080 |
| Idaho | $106,680 |
| Illinois | $101,630 |
| Indiana | $82,130 |
| Kansas | $88,630 |
| Kentucky | $85,340 |
| Louisiana | $81,660 |
| Maryland | $125,290 |
| Massachusetts | $123,650 |
| Minnesota | $107,780 |
| Mississippi | $90,320 |
| Missouri | $100,160 |
| Nevada | $88,670 |
| New Hampshire | $114,280 |
| New Jersey | $115,090 |
| New York | $114,590 |
| North Carolina | $108,090 |
| Ohio | $102,820 |
| Oklahoma | $103,570 |
| Oregon | $111,020 |
| Pennsylvania | $107,410 |
| Rhode Island | $104,400 |
| South Carolina | $87,870 |
| Tennessee | $87,910 |
| Texas | $116,720 |
| Virginia | $119,500 |
| Washington | $123,680 |
| West Virginia | $96,370 |
| Wisconsin | $88,780 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Computer Hardware Engineers
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Computer Hardware Engineers may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Web browser software
- Python
- Microsoft Access
- Data entry software
- Word processing software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Visio
- Database software
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Linux
- Microsoft Visual Basic
- UNIX
- Computer aided design CAD software
- National Instruments LabVIEW
How to Become a Computer Hardware Engineer
Learn what Computer Hardware Engineer education requirements there are.
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Computer Hardware Engineers?
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Computer Hardware Engineer might also be interested in the following careers:
Those who work as a Computer Hardware Engineer sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
References:
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