What is a Hardware Design Engineer?
Hardware design engineers can generally be viewed as electronic engineers, except they work specifically with computers. They are responsible for researching, designing, developing, testing, and installing computer hardware on systems. This includes computer chips, computer systems, circuits, and modems.
Hardware design engineers analyze the needs of users to recommend appropriate hardware for those in need, and evaluate the overall performance of the hardware they develop and install. They monitor the functions of the equipment and make the necessary changes or modifications to ensure the system is running properly and efficiently.
They are also responsible for providing instruction and guidance for how to use hardware, about the devices and parts, and what to do should any issues arise. Hardware design engineers are also responsible for keeping up to date with designs, and in the systems in which they work.
How to Become a Hardware Design Engineer
Those individuals interested in pursuing a career as a hardware design engineer should have a college degree in engineering, information technology, or a computer science field. Some companies may require that interested candidates also have a graduate degree in the field. Ideal candidates should have exceptional skills in operations analysis, mathematics, programming, troubleshooting, science, and critical thinking. While some companies may prefer to hire experienced hardware design engineers, other companies will provide on the job training for new and inexperienced workers.
Hardware design engineers should have detailed knowledge of computers and computer systems, software, and functions, and be able to provide guidance and expert advice to other groups and clients. Because they can work with a number of different entities and groups, hardware design engineers must possess good communication skills as well.
Hardware Design Engineer Career Outlook & Salary
The career outlook for computer related and information technology jobs are estimated at growing much faster than the average occupation over the next several years, but hardware engineers may grow a bit slower with an expected growth rate of about 5% between the 2008 and 2018 period. As more people will have the need for computers and related systems, and the desire to acquire new hardware, the outlook for hardware design engineers could continue to increase more than the projected amount.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that computer hardware engineers earned average yearly salaries of $100,180 in May 2008, the most recent information available by the Bureau. Additionally, depending on company type and employer, other benefits may include health insurance, paid vacations, profit sharing, retirement plans, and continuing education.
