Computers are composed of two separate but critical components: the software that runs the programs on the computer, and the actual physical elements of the computer itself—from the monitor to the power supply to the video card. Without hardware, there would be no computers to use word processors or play games on.
So who keeps the hardware working? Who develops the latest sleek laptop design? Who creates faster and better interior parts such as sound boards and video boards? Computer Science Hardware Engineers, that’s who.
Computers today are found in nearly every commercial, industrial, education, government, health care and research setting. Computer Hardware Engineers are in very high demand throughout every industry and every aspect of industry. So what does a Computer Hardware Engineer do?
Computer Hardware Engineers are responsible for researching, designing, developing, and testing the computer hardware as well as supervising production and installation. What is hardware? Computer Hardware can be all of the following: computer chips, circuit boards, internal computer systems, as well as other important computer parts such as keyboards, modems, and printers. There are elements of a Computer Hardware Engineers job that are similar to that of an electrical engineer, but Computer Hardware Engineers focus exclusively on computer equipment. It is thanks to the innovative work of Computer Hardware Engineers that there are such frequent advances in computer technology.
Education
As computer technology advances, computer hardware engineers are responsible for maximizing a computer’s power and memory in the smallest space possible. As a direct result of this important part of a Computer Hardware Engineers job, the study of computer hardware engineering includes extensive math and science, because it is important to understand hardware down to the tiniest electron. Computer Hardware Engineers also have to write a lot on the job, and not just in computer code, which is why students in Computer Hardware degree programs take writing and communications classes to help them develop critical communications skills. Some Computer Hardware Engineering programs combine work experience with classroom learning, which can make the degree program last a little longer. Once you finish a degree in computer hardware, you'll be able to work in exciting fields like computer hardware engineering, computer systems analysis, and database administration.
Unlike a traditional Computer Science degree, a Computer Hardware Engineering Degree for many years was a traditional Engineering degree with a computer focus. However, as computers have become a much more critical element of our society, many colleges have created a special degree within the Computer Science Department called Computer Hardware Engineering. While two-year programs are available, in order to work in the field a bachelor’s degree is usually required.
Job Outlook and Salary
Because the number of Computer Hardware Engineers is much smaller than the number of folks involved with creating computer software, Computer Hardware Engineers are in very high demand. The median salary for Computer Hardware Engineers (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics) is $72,150, with the lowest 10% still earning at least $46,190 (and the highest 10% earning a nice six figures). Here is a breakdown of the various salaries for the various Computer Hardware Engineer positions.
• Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing - $76,600
• Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing - $75,300
• Computer systems designs and related services - $74,320
If you love building and taking apart computers, being a Computer Hardware Engineer might be just the career for you. Check out our list of colleges offering a Computer Hardware Engineering degree and get started today!
