| What does a computer hardware specialist do? |
|
Computer hardware engineers design computer chips, boards, systems,
modems, and printers. (Computer software engineers design the
programs to run computers.)
Computer hardware engineers are much like electronics engineers,
but work only with computers The rapid advances in computers are
a result of their work. To keep up, these workers must stay up
to date on what they know.
| How do you get ready to become a computer hardware
specialist? |
|
A bachelor's in engineering is needed for almost all entry-level
engineering jobs. College grads with a degree in a science or
mathematics may get some jobs.
Getting into engineering school requires a strong report card
in math and science, and courses in English, social studies, and
computers.
In a typical college, the first 2 years are for studying math,
science, engineering basics, the arts, and social sciences. In
the last 2 years, most courses are in engineering, mostly in a
single branch.
Engineers should be creative, curious, analytical, and detail-oriented.
They should be able to work as part of a team. People skills are
important. This is because engineers often work with people in
a wide range of fields.
| How much does a computer hardware specialist get paid? |
|
The middle half of all computer hardware engineers earned between
$56,490 and $91,730 per year in 2002. The lowest-paid 10 percent
earned less than $46,190. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more
than $114,880.
The number of computer hardware engineers is pretty small compared
with other computer-related workers. They held about 74,000 jobs
in 2002. Most worked in the computer manufacturing, services,
or telecommunications industries.
Computer hardware engineers may have to try hard to find jobs.
This is because the number of degrees granted in this field has
gone up rapidly and employment is only expected to grow more slowly
than average.
| Are there other jobs like this? |
|
- Architects
- Chemists
- Computer and information systems managers
- Electrical engineers
- Engineering and natural sciences managers
- Sales engineers
- Science technicians
| Where can you find more information? |
|
More information about computer hardware engineers can be found
in the Careers Database
Source:
Occupational Outlook Handbook -- U.S. Department of Labor Bureau
of Labor Statistics
|
