Hardware Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineer Job Description

Hardware engineers, also known as computer hardware engineers, are responsible for the development of computer hardware such as circuit boards, microchips, and processors. They conduct research before the hardware is manufactured and monitor the entire manufacturing process. Once the parts are created, they test, retest, and assemble them. Computer or hardware engineers are responsible for the development of computers, computer-controlled parts, and other devices. Hardware engineers can be deployed in any industry involving computer engineering that offers a wide range of products and services, such as computer systems, computers, and electronics.

Computer hardware engineers work on the original design of computer components and systems and use computer software to help create drawings and specifications. Hardware engineers are responsible for designing the parts of computers and computer software systems that can be seen and touched. Hardware engineers monitor the manufacture and installation of hardware to ensure it meets demanding standards and functions properly.   

A computer hardware engineer researches and implements computer components, including computer systems and software applications. They ensure all the hardware components of the computer or device work with the latest software. Hardware engineering leads to the design and implementation of the systems needed for the computer to function. This can include important tasks such as programming, data processing, data storage, networking, computing, and communication.

The core of hardware engineering involves the design, development, testing, and maintenance of computer hardware and its components. Computer hardware engineers develop the hardware components such as the motherboard, graphics cards, processor, and other computer components. The device must be connected to the Internet as well as to other devices such as computers, networks, and storage devices.

Many computer hardware engineers design devices that do not work with computers, but contain processors and other computer components and are connected to the Internet. The computer hardware engineer job description also includes developing a growing number of Internet-connected, non-computer devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and smartphones. For example, mobile phone hardware and software are often developed jointly by the computer hardware engineer and the mobile phone manufacturer's software engineering team.

Depending on the computer engineering needs of the employer, the computer hardware engineer often performs a range of diagnostic and design tasks as well as performance tests. They use analytical and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve problems with hardware, software, or other components of a device or system. Hardware engineering professionals help develop and design computers and computer-related products, software, hardware, and services for a wide range of applications. The computer hardware engineer uses computer programming tools to analyze digital circuits and hardware to determine the best design.  

The computer hardware engineer often works with software developers to ensure compatibility between computer hardware and software. They use logic and reasoning to clarify goals, examine assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of various computer engineering solutions. The computer hardware engineer job description includes identifying complex problems in computer hardware, evaluating and developing possible solutions, and finding the best way to implement them.

The responsibilities of computer hardware engineers vary according to the company in which they work. The career path of a computer hardware engineer can lead to becoming a software engineer, software developer, hardware designer, computer engineer, or even an engineer in a manufacturing company. Most computer engineering work is done in the office, although occasionally computer hardware engineers may visit production sites. They can work in a variety of locations such as factories, warehouses, offices, and other industrial facilities.    

The computer hardware engineer performs many different tasks related to computer engineering and the physical components of computers, including research, development, and testing. In research laboratories, computer hardware engineers develop upgrades for processor circuits and network hardware, as well as improve computer technology and operational capabilities. Engineers often work as a team and must be able to communicate with other engineers in the same or other departments, such as software engineers, system administrators, or other computer hardware engineers. Most computer hardware engineers are employed in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, research and development, engineering, and logistics.