Computer hardware engineers are responsible for designing and developing computers and the computerised parts of other appliances. These include computer chips, circuit boards, displays, sensors, keyboards, modems, printers and test equipment. They are involved with the mechanical, electronic and electrical components of computers and computer systems such as processing units, memory and storage, data cabling and switching. This is a challenging and highly technical role.
On a day-to-day basis, hardware engineers work on the original design of computer components and systems, using computer software to assist in digital design and specifications. They may also:
- design microchips, printed circuit boards and embedded systems
- be responsible for testing and identifying any problems.
They can be found in the following areas:
- working in a manufacturing environment, producing, installing and testing new components and systems
- working in research and development, turning original designs and ideas into actual products
- supervising the manufacture and installation of computers and computer-related equipment.
Computer hardware engineers can either work on their own or as part of a team, which usually consists of IT professionals, such as computer software engineers/developers and programmers.
In some organisations, a computer hardware engineer is responsible for the maintenance and advanced technical support of the company’s internal hardware.
Hours and environment
Computer hardware engineers work normal hours Monday to Friday. Additional hours may be required to meet deadlines, which may include evenings and weekends.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- The average starting salary may be at least €25,000 a year.
- With experience, engineers may earn between €35,000 and €45,000 a year.
- Some engineers earn in excess of €70,000 a year.
Skills and personal qualities
Computer hardware engineers should:
- have strong technical skills
- have good interpersonal and communication skills
- be adaptable and able to pick up new techniques
- be able to work on their own or in a team
- be able to work to tight deadlines, handling complex information
- be thorough and precise in their work, enjoying troubleshooting and problem solving
- be able to pay attention to detail
- be able to handle more than one problem or task at the same time
- be able to use their initiative
- have logical and enquiring minds
- have good eyesight and normal colour vision.
Interests
It is important to be interested in:
- keeping up to date with advances in computers
- solving scientific and technical problems in a logical manner.
Getting in
Hardware engineers are employed throughout Ireland but with a higher concentration in Dublin.
Employers include:
- computer manufacturers
- telecommunication companies
- electronics companies
- computer software manufacturers
- large organisations such as financial and retail companies.
Entry routes
The most common route into this work is with a relevant honours degree, such as computer engineering, electronic engineering or computer systems engineering.Computer hardware engineers can gain Chartered Engineer and Incorporated Engineer status, which are both highly regarded by employers throughout industry.
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