Computer Hardware Engineer
What is it like to be a computer hardware engineer?
I’m considering it for my career, but I don’t know what to expect.
Dear aleksx_12
WHAT IS THIS JOB LIKE?
Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, test, and oversee the installation of computer hardware. Computer hardware includes computer chips, circuit boards, systems, modems, keyboards, and printers. (Computer software engineers design the programs to run computers.)
Computer hardware engineers are much like electronics engineers, but work only with computers. The rapid advances in computers are a result of their work. To keep up, these workers must stay up to date on what they know.
So if you like this you can continue your career as a hardware engineer.
HOW DO YOU GET READY?
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is needed for almost all entry-level engineering jobs. College grads with a degree in a science or mathematics may get some jobs.
Getting into engineering school requires a strong report card in math and science, and courses in English, social studies, and computers. Also, some schools prepare an engineer to get a job upon graduation while others prepare an engineer for graduate school. It is a good idea to research the school before you attend.
In a typical college, the first 2 years are for studying math, science, engineering basics, the arts, and social sciences. In the last 2 years, most courses are in engineering, mostly in a single branch.
Engineers should be creative, curious, analytical, and detail-oriented. They should be able to work as part of a team. People skills are important. This is because engineers often work with people in a wide range of fields.
HOW MUCH DOES THIS JOB PAY?
The middle half of all computer hardware engineers earned between $69,500 and $111,030 per year in 2006. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $53,910. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $135,260.
HOW MANY JOBS ARE THERE?
The number of computer hardware engineers is pretty small compared with other computer-related workers. They held about 79,000 jobs in 2006. Most worked in the computer and electronic product manufacturing industry, and some worked in the computer systems designs industry.
WHAT ABOUT THE FUTURE?
The number of computer hardware engineers is expected to grow more slowly than average through 2016. More people will need computers and related products made by these engineers, but some of these products will come from foreign countries. American workers will still have good job opportunities because the number of new entrants is expected to be in balance with the number of available jobs.
ARE THERE OTHER JOBS LIKE THIS?
Architects
Chemists
Computer and information systems managers
Electrical engineers
Engineering and natural sciences managers
Sales engineers
Science technicians
More information about computer hardware engineers can be found in the
http://www.bls.gov/oco/home.htm
How To Become a Computer Hardware Engineer
|
|
Fellowes 49107 100 Piece Computer Tool Kit (Black) $69.33 FELLOWES INC. FELLOWES100-PIECE SUPER TOOLKITFELLOWES100-PIECE SUPER TOOLKIT Manufacturer : FELLOWES INC. UPC : 077511491078… |
|
|
Engineer Working with Circuits – 24W x 16H – Peel and Stick Wall Decal by Wallmonkeys $33.99 WallMonkeys wall graphics are printed on the highest quality re-positionable, self-adhesive fabric paper. Each order is printed in-house and on-demand. WallMonkeys uses premium materials & state-of-the-art production technologies. Our white fabric material is superior to vinyl decals. You can literally see and feel the difference. Our wall graphics apply in minutes and won’t damage your paint or l… |
|
|
Stanley 520100M 20-Inch Wheeled Tool Bag $49.98 STANLEY 520100M WHEELED TOOL BAG… |
|
|
3Dconnexion SpaceNavigator SE (Standard Edition) 3D Navigation Device USB ( 3DX-700028 ) $89.99 A true 3D mouse, SpaceNavigator represents a great leap forward in controller technology. Unlike conventional mice limited to movement on two flat planes, SpaceNavigator supports effortless motion in all dimensions. You”re now free to roam the exciting new spaces of modern 3D digital environments without the limits imposed by outmoded flatworld technology…. |
|
|
PROMISE Pegasus R6 12TB RAID System $2,259.99 (6x 2TB SATA)… |
|
|
Belkin 3ft CAT5E Black UTP Patch Cord Snagless $0.01 Belkin FastCAT Cat5e Patch Cable A3L850-03-BLK-S 711… |
|
|
M-51 Engineers Field Bag – Military Style – Olive Drab $34.90 canvas Ultimate Carry-all for business or travel. Large Laptop Size Main Compartment Large back Document Compartment with 3/4 Zipper Opening. Dozens of Pouches, Compartment and Pen Holders, Large Size Plastic Covered Document Sleeve.” Storm Flap, Cell Phone Pouch, Adjustable Shoulder Strap, Top Carry Handle, Nickel Plated Hardware. Heavy weight 22 oz. Cotton Canvas 12 X 14″ X 6″… |
|
|
Rothco M-51 Engineers Field Bag – Military Style – Olive Drab $35.98 canvas Ultimate Carry-all for business or travel. Large Laptop Size Main Compartment Large back Document Compartment with 3/4 Zipper Opening. Dozens of Pouches, Compartment and Pen Holders, Large Size Plastic Covered Document Sleeve.” Storm Flap, Cell Phone Pouch, Adjustable Shoulder Strap, Top Carry Handle, Nickel Plated Hardware. Heavy weight 22 oz. Cotton Canvas 12 X 14″ X 6″”… |
|
|
Olive Drab M-51 Engineers Field Bag $39.49 The ULTIMATE CARRY-ALL FOR BUSINESS OR TRAVEL. LARGE LAPTOP SIZE MAIN COMPARTMENT LARGE BLACK DOCUMENT COMPARTMENT WITH 3/4” ZIPPER OPENING DOZENS OF POUCHES, COMPARTMENTS AND PEN HOLDERS LARGE SIZE PLASTIC COVERED DOCUMENT SLEEVE STORM FLAP CELL PHONE POUCH ADJUSTABLE SHOULDER STRAP TOP CARRY HANDLE NICKLE PLATED HARDWARE HW 22 OZ. COTTON CANVAS 12” X 14” X 6”… |
|
|
Ultimate Ears Loud Enough Volume Limiting Earphones for Children (Blueberry) $14.99 The Ultimate Ears Loud Enough earphone offers full, detailed sound in a small and lightweight form factor. It was developed especially for children ages 8+ who listen to their earphones while in the car, playing video games, watching movies, walking to school or just hanging out with their friends. The key feature of Loud Enough earphones is built-in sound pressure protection that reduces any musi… |
|
|
Computer Engineer Computer engineer shopping White T-Shirt by CafePress $22 computer engineer gift items, computer engineer gifts, computer engineer clothing, computer engineer shopping, computer engineer tshirt, computer engineer t-shirt Computer engineer shopping White T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The white t-shirt is a timeless classic for a reason; it should be a staple in every wardrobe. It is clean, simple, and durable. The best part is you can wear it with anything. This 100% cotton T-shirt is so comfortable you’ll want to wear it to bed. |
|
|
Persian Engineer Engineer Mousepad by CafePress $13 Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. Engineer Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Computer Engineer costume Humor Hooded Sweatshirt by CafePress $45 This is my Computer Engineer costume t-shirts, stickers and gifts are fun for halloween or any other occassion. Humor Hooded Sweatshirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt The hoodie: the perfect utilitarian piece of clothing. Leave your hat and scarf at home Stay warm and comfy in your Pullover Hooded Sweatshirt. This hoodie is constructed with a cotton/polyester blend – both durable and comfortable.Heavyweight 90 |
|
|
Software engineer Computer Dark T-Shirt by CafePress $26 Software engineer Computer Dark T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Don’t waste time deciding on which shirt to put on each morning. This dark shirt t-shirt will never go out of style and hides stains better too. This high-quality t-shirt is pre-shrunk and 100% cotton, which makes it both comfortable and durable. |
|
|
Computer Engineer Geek Dark T-Shirt by CafePress $26 Show me a man who laughs at failure and I’ll show you a computer engineer – This witty tee by Fyfe Photography Design is the perfect gift for the geek in your life Geek Dark T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Don’t waste time deciding on which shirt to put on each morning. This dark shirt t-shirt will never go out of style and hides stains better too. This high-quality t-shirt is pre-shrunk and 100% cotton, which makes it both comfortable and durable. |
|
|
Engineer Engineers Mousepad by CafePress $13 Engineer Mousepad Engineers Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Computer Engineer Arabic Calligraphy Long Sleeve D Cool Long Sleeve Dark T-Shirt by CafePress $32.5 Computer engineer, computer engineer, computer engineer, isn’t it fun being a computer engineer? Computer engineer in English, computer engineer in Arabic calligraphy-face it-I’m a computer engineer Cool Long Sleeve Dark T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Our Long Sleeve T-Shirt adds an extra element of style for a casual night out, or to keep the chill off. Made of 100% ringspun cotton for maximum comfort, put on your new favorite T-Shirt from a favorite, trusted name in t-shirts, Hanes.6.1 oz. 1 |
|
|
World’s Greatest COMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEER T143 Stein by CafePress $20 Visit our Job Shirts for more World’s Greatest COMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEER shirts,World’s Greatest COMPUTER SOFTWARE ENGINEER t shirts,job and office mugs T143 Stein Heft a cold one in this 22 oz. ceramic stein with gold trim. A great usable alternative to the trophy. Make any day Oktoberfest whether with this impressive stein on the shelf or in-hand. CheersMeasures 6.75 tall, 3.75 diameter base, 3 di |
|
|
Optimism Engineer Mousepad by CafePress $13 Which are you – Optimist glass half full, Pessimist glass half empty, or Engineer glass twice as large as it needs to be? Engineer Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Computer Software Engineer da Family Fitted T-Shirt by CafePress $26.5 Computer Software Engineer dad t-shirts, stickers, and clothing for dad on fathers day or any other occassion. Family Fitted T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt For stylish weekend comfort anytime, guys will want to live in our Fitted T. Made of ultra-fine, combed ring-spun cotton, that gets softer with each washing. Lightweight for summer comfort or winter layering. Grab attention with this vintage fit that love |
|
|
Project Phases Engineer Mousepad by CafePress $13 Six Phases of a Project Engineer Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Mechanical Engineers and Civil Engineers Engineer Mousepad by CafePress $13 Mechanical Engineering is better than civil engineering Give this to your civil engineer friends Engineer Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Computer Engineer Geek Zip Hoodie dark by CafePress $45 You know the inner workings of computers like the back of your hand. Let everyone know Geek Zip Hoodie dark Zip around town in style with this zip-up hooded sweatshirt. Made of soft fleece, it keeps you and anyone next to you toasty. Yet it’s rugged enough for impromptu games of touch football.10 oz. fleece blend 90% cotton/10% polyester. |
|
|
Computer Engineer Tshirt Maternity T-Shirt by CafePress $28.5 Our 100% cotton mid-weight jersey maternity tee is super soft and comfortable. A scoop neck with side seamed construction provides a perfect shape, for you and your little one.5.5 oz. 100% luxuriously soft combed ring spun cotton Scoop Tshirt Maternity T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Our 100% cotton mid-weight jersey maternity tee is super soft and comfortable. A scoop neck with side seamed construction provides a perfect shape, for you and your little one.5.5 oz. 100% luxuriously soft combed ring spun cotton . Scoop |
|
|
Computer Engineer Humor Bumper Sticker by CafePress $5 Are you a geek? Know someone who is? This product with a witty sayings designed by Fyfe Photography Design will make the perfect gift for the geek in your life Humor Bumper Sticker Tell the world how you feel Our bumper stickers are perfect for expressing yourself while cruising down the highway or just for posting on the wall. Measures 10 x 3. Printed on 4mil vinyl using water and UV resistant inks - |
|
|
SuperDad…Engineer Funny Mousepad by CafePress $13 Here you’ll find a collection of apparel with the SuperDad cleverly disguised as an Engineer design. Perfect gift for the Super Dad who loves the challenge of design and engineering. Funny Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
Engineer’s Motto Internet Mousepad by CafePress $13 The Engineer’s Motto: If it isn’t broken, take it apart and fix it. Be proud to be a geek or nerd, especially since it’s very cool lately Internet Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
I Love My Computer Engineer I love Women’s Tank Top by CafePress $22 I Love My Computer Engineer t-shirts, stickers and clothing. I love Women’s Tank Top Sporty and sexy, wear our women’s tank top to beat the summer heat or workout in cool comfort. Our tank top is made of 100% combed ring spun cotton, and cut for a close, fashionable fit. Neck and armhole are carefully shaped to conceal a bra.6.1 o |
|
|
Mechanical Engineer Work Funny Mousepad by CafePress $13 Quiet Please Mechanical Engineer At Work. Be proud of your occupation, hobby, or obsession. Get this fun design on great t-shirts, stickers, much more Funny Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
|
|
engineer engineering joke Funny Mousepad by CafePress $13 a funny engineering joke for your engineer on gifts, t-shirts, presents, mugs, posters and prints. visit politics is fun for more. Funny Mousepad Keep your mouse rolling in style on our durable cloth top mousepad. A great gift for geeks, gamers, or anyone with a computer. Rubber backing prevents the mousepad from sliding. Machine washable. |
