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Computer Hardware Engineer

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Who Employs Computer Hardware Engineers?

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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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:

Image Credit: via CC0 Public Domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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