With each passing day, we spend more time on computers and expect them to meet more complex needs. Computer hardware engineers have a leading role in the research on, and development of, advanced computer technology, and even influence how it's used. Computer hardware engineers research, design, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory, and storage media. In most cases, the goal of computer hardware engineers is to discover ways to make computers faster and more powerful. Some more specialized engineers design other devices that incorporate computers- like cars and medical equipment. Some work closely with software developers to design phones, tablets, and other devices. Computer hardware engineers need to be creative problem-solvers, and work well as a member of a team... using their powers of reason to find original solutions. Usually computer hardware engineers have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, though degrees in electrical engineering or computer science are also accepted. Some positions require a master's degree. Many employers expect computer hardware engineers to have at least some familiarity with software. In this fast-moving millennium, few shape our information world like computer hardware engineers.
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
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.
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
physics
Arts and Humanities
English language
Communications
telecommunications
Basic Skills
reading work related information
thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Ideas and Logic
make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
order or arrange things
Math
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
People interested in this work like activities that include ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Innovation
Initiative
Cooperation
Achievement/Effort
You might use software like this on the job:
Analytical or scientific software
SAS
The MathWorks MATLAB
Desktop communications software
Eko
Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD
Dassault Systemes CATIA
bachelor's degree or master's degree usually needed
Get started on your career:
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