Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.
SOC: 17-2061.00
Common Job Titles
Design Engineer
Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Systems Integration Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign computer hardware architectures and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific applications using CAD software and simulation tools.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize hardware and software integration requirements collaborating with interdisciplinary engineering teams to ensure system compatibility.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate test protocols and validation strategies for complex computer hardware systems using VHDL, Verilog, and automated test generation tools.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate hardware system performance and compliance with specifications using diagnostic tools, spectrum analyzers, and logic analyzers in laboratory settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze circuit design failures and performance bottlenecks using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and signal analysis equipment to optimize system functionality.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply engineering principles and mathematical modeling to solve hardware design challenges using MATLAB, SPICE simulation, and electronic design automation software.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate advanced electronic testing equipment including logic analyzers, protocol analyzers, and thermal chambers to verify hardware functionality.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute precisely circuit board layout and component placement using CAD tools such as Cadence Allegro and AutoCAD following design specifications.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate stakeholder requirements with technical feasibility constraints when consulting with clients and presenting design recommendations to management.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop documentation and technical specifications for hardware design projects, manufacturing processes, and installation procedures.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate innovative design solutions and emerging technologies while balancing cost constraints, regulatory requirements, and project timelines.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess manufacturing feasibility and quality control processes supervising installation of computer equipment and coordinating with production teams.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Computer Hardware Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
75,710
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $85,430. 25th percentile: U.S. $115,500. 50th percentile: U.S. $155,020. 75th percentile: U.S. $185,380. 90th percentile: U.S. $223,820. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$85,430
10% of workers earn the following or more
$223,820
Workers on average earn
$156,770
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Computers and Electronics4.7/5
Engineering and Technology4.7/5
Mathematics4.1/5
Design4.1/5
English Language3.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
