A Career In Computer Hardware Engineering - An Overview

by Shalini Laxmish Digital Marketing Executive

Computers; they’ve changed how we see the world, work, and interact with each other. They’re never going out of fashion, and are, already improving day-by-day to make our lives convenient.

But what goes behind a computer? How does it ‘improve’?

Well, there is software, but that is a topic for another day. You’re here to know about hardware. The vital cogs that keep the computer running. At the helm of any progress in computing is the hardware. And the people entrusted to do it are computer hardware engineers.

So, what do they do?

Well, computer hardware engineers develop, research, test and design computer systems. These systems are basically components like routers, circuit boards, processors, memory devices, and networks. It’s only when these engineers work their magic and innovate computer hardware, do rapid advances in computer technology come about.

What do Computer Hardware Jobs Entail?

Computer hardware engineers basically...

Create blueprints of the computer equipment to be built
Design new computer hardware and test completed models
Analyze test results and rework the design
Recondition existing computer equipment for the new software
Supervise manufacturing of computer hardware components
Stay up-to-date about new trends in computer engineering technology
Design devices that integrate processors and other components to connect to the Internet.

The crux of the matter is that hardware engineers design and develop computer hardware components to seamlessly work with the latest software developments. This is the reason why they collaborate with software developers.

But don’t be mistaken. If you think that they are oblivious to programming, you’re wrong. While working on hardware components in conjunction with software developers, these engineers perform some basic computer programming and test computer code.

Which Industries Hire Hardware Engineers?

Many industries hire hardware engineers. The ones that usually hire a majority of hardware engineers are:

Electromedical, Navigational, control, and measuring instruments manufacturing
Design of computer systems and related services
Manufacturing of semiconductors and other electronic components
Manufacturing of computer and peripheral equipment
Research and development in the sphere of engineering, physical, and life sciences
Hi-tech research laboratories and manufacturing firms building and testing computer models

What’s the Work Schedule Like?

A majority of computer hardware engineers hold full-time jobs. As for the number of working hours, on average, more than 40 hours per week.

Training & Educational Qualifications

Since this job role is technical in nature, computer hardware engineers require a bachelor’s degree from a recognised computer engineering program.

Education

In India, most entry-level computer hardware jobs are held by candidates holding a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering.

However, generally, a degree in electrical engineering or computer science is also acceptable. Now, what you need to understand is that majoring in computer engineering is similar to electrical engineering. But, the computer science curriculum is heavily emphasized upon in the former.

NOTE:

If you want to pursue a career in hardware engineering, always ensure that the engineering program is accredited by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education). In most cases, employers only prefer students holding an accredited degree from a recognised university.

Also, in order to take up a major in computer or electrical engineering, students must have a solid foundation in math and science.

This is a career in computing technologies and computer software systems, a familiarity with computer programming is usually expected. This familiarity can be obtained through computer science courses.

You must also note that some large firms or specialized jobs require a master’s degree in computer engineering. And in some case, some seasoned engineers participate in internships and obtain an MBA degree to gain practical experience.

But, if it hasn’t been emphasized enough already, all engineers must keep their learning curve on the up over the course of their careers to keep up with rapid advances in technology.

What After a Career in Hardware Engineering?

A career in computer hardware engineering is a stepping stone to major career advancements. You might start off as a computer hardware engineer, but with much experience and knowledge, you can grow into the roles of computer and information systems managers.