Hardware engineers or developers, also known as computer hardware engineers, are responsible for computer hardware development and design, such as circuit boards, chips, and systems. Before producing any hardware, these computer specialists conduct research. Afterward, they supervise the entire manufacturing process.
Once the component is made, they test and install it. Hardware engineers work in industries offering services for the design of computer systems and the production of computer and peripheral equipment. As the world relies more and more on computers every day, hardware developers are increasingly important.
Most engineers work for the federal government, agencies for scientific research and development, and manufacturing companies. If you want to learn more about this career, you are in the right place. Continue reading to find out more about this sector of development.
Education And Training
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree or above in engineering to enter the profession. Undergraduates can choose between systems engineering and computer science programs.
Some companies often recruit students with a diploma in mathematics or natural science. Candidates may also choose to specialize during postgraduate education in manufacturing or engineering aspects relating to design. It is best to register with an ABET, Inc.-approved system.
Licensing of hardware engineers who wish to provide services directly to the public is required. The licensing procedure involves getting an approved degree in engineering and at least four years of work experience in a relevant field as well as passing a state exam.
Developers can complete this cycle in two pieces. New hardware developers can finish the Engineering Fundamentals Exam immediately after graduating, then work for four years, and take the Engineering Principles and Practices Test. They’re referred to as professional engineers upon completion. Continuing courses in education may be necessary to stay licensed.
Career Outlook
Finding good jobs in the field is not very difficult. Many employers advertise job openings in classified newspaper pages and through online job sites. A number of engineering schools also offer work placement assistance. Another smart move would be to get in touch with others in the profession and speak with them about opportunities. In addition, several professional engineering societies provide job news.
The average salary for a hardware developer in the United States is $107,052 per year. Salary estimates are based on 1,028 wages voluntarily submitted to Indeed by hardware engineer staff in the past 36 months. For a hardware engineer, the average job period is 1-3 years.
Job Advancement
Novices in hardware development begin by training professionals. A lot of employers hold formal training courses and workshops in the classroom. These are essential because they help new hardware developers obtain the practical knowledge and exposure they need.
Hardware engineers are given individual projects based on their experience. It may take a couple of years to progress to a technical specialist level. Eventually, hardware engineers may head teams and train other engineers. Some even take management positions in large corporations.
Hardware companies have staff that work mostly in offices and laboratories. They may need to travel to production sites to track or fix on-site problems. Working hours are usually routine, but hardware engineers may need to work longer hours in order to fulfill deadlines.
Conclusion
Hardware engineers’ roles are not very distinct from those of electronic engineers. Professionals in hardware development are both required to design and test the devices and electronic circuits. Unlike electronics engineers, however, hardware engineers only manage computing and peripheral devices.
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