Day in the Life
 Computer
engineers are concerned with the design, development, and implementation
of computer technology into a wide range of consumer, industrial,
commercial, and military applications. In automobiles design, for
example, computers are integrated into many systems, including air
conditioning, navigation, audio and video systems, and even tire
pressure alert systems. As more and more products incorporate or
interact with computers, computer engineers are challenged to develop
computer applications that improve the quality of life while being
sensitive to manufacturing and distribution costs.
 Teams
and Coworkers
Almost all jobs in engineering require some sort of interaction with
coworkers. Whether they are working in a team situation, or just asking
for advice, most engineers have to have the ability to communicate and
work with other people. Engineers should be creative, inquisitive,
analytical, and detail-oriented. They should be able to work as part of
a team and to communicate well, both orally and in writing.
Communication abilities are important because engineers often interact
with specialists in a wide range of fields outside engineering. Writing
and presentation skills are also vital so engineers can share their
research and experiences with colleagues through topical meetings,
professional associations, and various publications.
Tasks
Computer hardware engineers typically do the following:
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Design new computer hardware, creating schematics of computer equipment to be built
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Test the computer hardware they design
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Analyze the test results and modify the design as needed
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Update existing computer equipment so that it will work with new software
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Oversee the manufacturing process for computer hardware
Many hardware engineers design devices used in manufactured products that incorporate processors and other computer components and that connect to the Internet. For example, many new cars, home appliances, and medical devices have Internet-ready computer systems built into them. Computer hardware engineers ensure that computer hardware components work together with the latest software. Therefore, hardware engineers often work with software developers. For example, the hardware and software for mobile phones and other devices frequently are developed at the same time.
The
Workplace
Computer engineers usually work in offices or laboratories in comfortable
surroundings. They usually work about 40 hours a week -- the same as
many other professional or office workers do. However, evening or
weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines or solve specific
problems. Given the technology available today, telecommuting is common
for computer professionals. As networks expand, more work can be done
from remote locations through modems, laptops, electronic mail, and the
Internet. Computer Engineers
are employed in industry, government, education and consulting. It is
difficult to find a company that doesn't require the expertise of
computer engineers for its products or systems.
Find out more...
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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