Computer Hardware Engineer

Occupation PowerPoint

Created by The University of North Texas in partnership with the Texas Education

Agency

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What They Do…

They determine current technology needs and anticipate the technology needs of the future.

They design and build the physical parts, or hardware, of a computer.

They consult businesses and find solutions to technology problems.

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Knowledge…

They must have knowledge of computers and electronic equipment.

They need to know math, including algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.

They must understand the practical application of engineering, technology, and design techniques.

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Skills…

Creative ability to design computers that will meet the technological needs of the future.

Ability to analyze and solve complex problems.

Ability to assess what works and doesn’t work in hardware design.

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Tools They Use…

Test signal generators to test electric circuits.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools to draw circuits and systems of a computer design.

Oscilloscopes that allow voltage in a circuit to be viewed as a 2-dimensional graph on a screen.

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Working Conditions…

Computer Hardware Engineers usually work 40 hours a week in an office environment.

They sometimes work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines or solve serious problems.

They are susceptible to eye strain, back discomfort, and wrist problems from long hours on the computer.

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Training Required…

Most jobs require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering.

Some companies require experience with a variety of computer systems.

Some jobs also require experience in related areas, such as programming and information systems.

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Who They Work For…

Computer and manufacturing companies, like IBM, Dell, or Apple

Colleges and Universities

As technology consultants for various organizations and businesses

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Income… Average income for a Computer Hardware

Engineer is between $69,000 and $110,000 per year.

The top 10% earn more than $135,000.

The number of hardware engineers is expected to grow but will face competition through foreign outsourcing.