Computer Hardware Engineers
Medium46.34%
Salary Range
Low (10th %)$81,630
Median$138,080
High (90th %)$212,770
AI Prompt Guides for Computer Hardware Engineers
Unlock expert prompt guides tailored for this Computer Hardware Engineers. Get strategies to boost your productivity and results with AI.
AI Prompt Tool for Computer Hardware Engineers
Experiment with and customize AI prompts designed for this occupation. Try, edit, and save prompts for your workflow.
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.
The automation risk for the occupation "Computer Hardware Engineers" is estimated at 46.3%, which is closely aligned with the base risk of 47.2%. This level reflects a moderate vulnerability to automation, primarily due to the repetitive and well-defined aspects of hardware engineering tasks that can be efficiently performed by machines or software. For instance, routine updating of knowledge and skills to keep pace with rapid advancements in computer technology is increasingly being supplemented by digital training platforms and AI-driven resources. Additionally, the tasks of designing and developing hardware, as well as consulting engineering specifications, are becoming more automatable with advances in computer-aided design (CAD) tools, simulation software, and AI-based decision support. These technologies streamline many processes, allowing certain aspects of hardware engineering to be efficiently managed by automated systems. However, not all tasks within this field are equally susceptible to automation, and several remain resistant. Responsibilities such as recommending the purchase of equipment for environmental controls to safeguard installations require nuanced judgment, consideration of site-specific variables, and real-world assessment that are difficult to codify for AI. Similarly, analyzing vast amounts of information to plan optimal layouts or modifications of computer equipment involves creativity and contextual understanding, which present substantial challenges for automation. Moreover, the assembly and modification of existing equipment to satisfy unique, client-specific requirements often demand hands-on expertise and situational adaptability—areas where current automated systems underperform compared to human engineers. A key bottleneck skill within the occupation is originality, with measured levels of 3.5% and 4.0%, respectively. This skill is crucial in envisioning novel solutions, troubleshooting unusual problems, and adapting standard hardware to meet specialized demands. While routine design and analysis may be streamlined by automation, the creation of entirely new approaches or adaptation to unprecedented challenges relies on human ingenuity. As a result, the need for original thought and customized problem-solving serves as a significant barrier to full automation in this field. Consequently, although the profession faces moderate risk from automation, it is the human capacity for originality and flexible thinking that ensures the continued relevance of computer hardware engineers in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Filter by Automatable Status
Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology.
Partially Automatable
Design and develop computer hardware and support peripherals, including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and printers and disk drives.
Partially Automatable
Confer with engineering staff and consult specifications to evaluate interface between hardware and software and operational and performance requirements of overall system.
Partially Automatable
Build, test, and modify product prototypes, using working models or theoretical models constructed with computer simulation.
Partially Automatable
Write detailed functional specifications that document the hardware development process and support hardware introduction.
Partially Automatable
Test and verify hardware and support peripherals to ensure that they meet specifications and requirements, by recording and analyzing test data.
Partially Automatable
Direct technicians, engineering designers or other technical support personnel as needed.
Non-Automatable
Select hardware and material, assuring compliance with specifications and product requirements.
Partially Automatable
Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.
Automatable
Analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware.
Partially Automatable
Evaluate factors such as reporting formats required, cost constraints, and need for security restrictions to determine hardware configuration.
Partially Automatable
Provide training and support to system designers and users.
Partially Automatable
Monitor functioning of equipment and make necessary modifications to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications.
Partially Automatable
Specify power supply requirements and configuration, drawing on system performance expectations and design specifications.
Partially Automatable
Assemble and modify existing pieces of equipment to meet special needs.
Non-Automatable
Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan layout, including type of computers and peripheral equipment modifications.
Partially Automatable
Recommend purchase of equipment to control dust, temperature, and humidity in area of system installation.
Partially Automatable
Provide technical support to designers, marketing and sales departments, suppliers, engineers and other team members throughout the product development and implementation process.
Partially Automatable
Reading ComprehensionActive ListeningService OrientationComplex Problem SolvingOperations MonitoringEquipment MaintenanceJudgment and Decision MakingManagement of Material ResourcesWritingSpeakingMathematicsScienceCritical ThinkingActive LearningLearning StrategiesMonitoringSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationPersuasionNegotiationInstructingOperations AnalysisTechnology DesignEquipment SelectionInstallationProgrammingOperation and ControlTroubleshootingRepairingQuality Control AnalysisSystems AnalysisSystems EvaluationTime ManagementManagement of Financial ResourcesManagement of Personnel Resources
Arm-Hand SteadinessAuditory AttentionCategory FlexibilityControl PrecisionDeductive ReasoningDepth PerceptionDynamic FlexibilityDynamic StrengthExplosive StrengthExtent FlexibilityFar VisionFinger DexterityFlexibility of ClosureFluency of IdeasGlare SensitivityGross Body CoordinationGross Body EquilibriumHearing SensitivityInductive ReasoningInformation OrderingManual DexterityMathematical ReasoningMemorizationMultilimb CoordinationNear VisionNight VisionNumber FacilityOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionOriginalityPerceptual SpeedPeripheral VisionProblem SensitivityRate ControlReaction TimeResponse OrientationSelective AttentionSound LocalizationSpatial OrientationSpeech ClaritySpeech RecognitionSpeed of ClosureSpeed of Limb MovementStaminaStatic StrengthTime SharingTrunk StrengthVisual Color DiscriminationVisualizationWrist-Finger SpeedWritten ComprehensionWritten Expression
Administration and ManagementAdministrativeEconomics and AccountingSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServicePersonnel and Human ResourcesProduction and ProcessingFood ProductionComputers and ElectronicsEngineering and TechnologyDesignForeign LanguageHistory and ArcheologyGeographyMedicine and DentistryFine ArtsBuilding and ConstructionMechanicalMathematicsPhysicsChemistryBiologySociology and AnthropologyEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingPublic Safety and SecurityLaw and GovernmentTelecommunicationsCommunications and MediaTransportationTherapy and CounselingPhilosophy and TheologyPsychology
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsGetting InformationIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsInspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsEstimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationJudging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleProcessing InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsAnalyzing Data or InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsThinking CreativelyUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeDeveloping Objectives and StrategiesScheduling Work and ActivitiesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentWorking with ComputersRepairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentDrafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentDocumenting/Recording InformationInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsAssisting and Caring for OthersSelling or Influencing OthersResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersDeveloping and Building TeamsTraining and Teaching OthersGuiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersProviding Consultation and Advice to OthersPerforming Administrative ActivitiesStaffing Organizational UnitsMonitoring and Controlling ResourcesPerforming General Physical ActivitiesControlling Machines and ProcessesHandling and Moving Objects
CC++Computer aided design CAD softwareCisco IOSDatabase softwareEkoDassault Systemes CATIAApache Subversion SVNData acquisition systemsASSET JTAG ScanWorksAutomatic test program generation ATPGBlock diagram softwareBoundary scan insertion softwareBuilt-in self-test BIST debugging softwareCadence Allegro PCB DesignerCadence ConceptCadence Encounter RTL CompilerCadence OpusCadence PSpiceCadence Schematic ComposerCadence Virtuoso Spectre Circuit SimulatorComputer diagnostic softwareComputer simulation softwareDesign-for-testability DFT insertion softwareFailure analysis softwareFast Fourier transform FFT analysis softwareMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft Visual BasicSASThe MathWorks MATLABPythonMonte Carlo simulation softwareHardware description language HDLField programmable gate array FPGA logic synthesis softwareProject management softwareFreescale CodeWarrior ToolsIntegrated circuit simulation softwareOperating system softwareLinuxPerlInternet search engine softwareShell scriptUNIXLogic synthesis softwareLogicVision icBISTPTC Creo ParametricM-SimMAGIC softwareMagma Design Automation Blast FPGAWeb browser softwareSpreadsheet softwareGitVerilogNational Instruments LabVIEWMathsoft MathcadMicrosoft PowerPointMathWorks SimulinkMagellan FirmwareTool command language TclMathWorks Simulink DSP BlocksetMentor Graphics BSDArchitectMentor Graphics CalibreMentor Graphics Precision RTLMentor Graphics Xpedition xDX DesignerPARTHENONPCI Express PCIePlace-and-route softwareSchematic editorsSKILL FMEA softwareSoftICEState diagram softwareSynopsys HerculesSynopsys HSIMSynopsys HSPICESynopsys TetraMax ATPGSystemVerilogThe Mathworks Data Acquisition ToolboxThe Mathworks Embedded CoderThe MathWorks Signal Processing ToolboxThe MathWorks Symbolic Math ToolboxTiming analysis softwareVerification softwareVery high-speed integrated circuit VHSIC hardware description language VHDLWindows kernel debuggersXilinx ISE FoundationXilinx ModelSimThe MathWorks MATLABC++Apache Subversion SVNASSET JTAG ScanWorksAutomatic test program generation ATPGBlock diagram softwareBuilt-in self-test BIST debugging softwareCadence Allegro PCB DesignerCadence ConceptCadence Encounter RTL CompilerCadence OpusCadence PSpiceCadence Schematic ComposerCadence Virtuoso Spectre Circuit SimulatorBoundary scan description language BSDLMicrosoft Visual BasicMonte Carlo simulation softwareSASComputer simulation softwarePythonOperating system softwareLinuxDesign-for-testability DFT insertion softwareFailure analysis softwareOracle JavaHardware description and verification languageFreescale CodeWarrior ToolsPerlThe MathWorks Real-Time WorkshopShell scriptUNIXIntegrated circuit simulation softwarePTC Creo ParametricMentor Graphics LeonardoSpectrumInternet search engine softwareSpreadsheet softwareLogicVision icBISTWeb browser softwareDatabase softwareEkoMicrosoft PowerPointCisco IOSGitVerilogNational Instruments LabVIEWMathsoft MathcadMicrosoft Visual C# .NETMathWorks SimulinkMagellan FirmwareComputer diagnostic softwareM-SimMAGIC softwareMagma Design Automation Blast FPGAMathWorks Simulink DSP BlocksetMentor Graphics BSDArchitectMentor Graphics CalibreMentor Graphics Xpedition xDX DesignerPARTHENONPCI Express PCIePlace-and-route softwareSchematic editorsSKILL FMEA softwareSoftICEState diagram softwareSynopsys HerculesSynopsys HSIMSynopsys HSPICESynopsys TetraMax ATPGSystemVerilogThe Mathworks Data Acquisition ToolboxThe Mathworks Embedded CoderThe MathWorks Symbolic Math ToolboxVerification softwareWindows kernel debuggersXilinx ISE FoundationXilinx ModelSimThe MathWorks Wavelet ToolboxField programmable gate array FPGA design softwareSimulation program with integrated circuit emphasis SPICEDiscrete Fourier transform DFT analysis softwareCData acquisition systemsWord processing softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareDassault Systemes CATIAVery high-speed integrated circuit VHSIC hardware description language VHDLStructured query language SQLAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCADProject management softwareOracle JavaWord processing softwareElectronic design automation EDA softwareElectronic design automation EDA softwareMicrosoft Visual C# .NETSimulation program with integrated circuit emphasis SPICETool command language TclHardware description language HDLBoundary scan insertion softwareCadence OrCAD softwareCadence OrCAD softwareCadence Virtuoso Layout SuiteCadence Virtuoso Layout SuiteBoundary scan description language BSDLApplication-specific integrated circuit ASIC logic synthesis softwareApplication-specific integrated circuit ASIC logic synthesis softwareCadence DraculaCadence DraculaFast Fourier transform FFT analysis softwareField programmable gate array FPGA logic synthesis softwareLogic synthesis softwareMentor Graphics Precision RTLThe MathWorks Signal Processing ToolboxTiming analysis softwareField programmable gate array FPGA design softwareSynopsys Design CompilerSynopsys Design CompilerThe MathWorks Real-Time WorkshopDiscrete Fourier transform DFT analysis softwareHardware description and verification languageMentor Graphics LeonardoSpectrumThe MathWorks Wavelet ToolboxVery high speed integrated circuit VHSIC hardware description language VHDL simulation softwareVery high speed integrated circuit VHSIC hardware description language VHDL simulation softwareComplementary-symmetry/metal-oxide semiconductor CMOS layout softwareComplementary-symmetry/metal-oxide semiconductor CMOS layout softwareMagma Design Automation Blast CreateMagma Design Automation Blast CreateMathWorks Simulink Fixed-Point BlocksetMathWorks Simulink Fixed-Point BlocksetMicroarchitecture simulation softwareMicroarchitecture simulation softwareRegister transfer language RTLRegister transfer language RTLSynplicity SynplifySynplicity SynplifyThe Mathworks Control System ToolboxThe Mathworks Control System ToolboxXilinx Synthesis Technology XSTXilinx Synthesis Technology XSTMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft AccessStructured query language SQL
Computer Systems Analysts
Medium48.05%
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software.
Computer Network Architects
Medium50.66%
Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Software Developers
Medium51.32%
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Medium51.71%
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Information Security Engineers
Medium52.50%
Develop and oversee the implementation of information security procedures and policies. Build, maintain and upgrade security technology, such as firewalls, for the safe use of computer networks and the transmission and retrieval of information. Design and implement appropriate security controls to identify vulnerabilities and protect digital files and electronic infrastructures. Monitor and respond to computer security breaches, viruses, and intrusions, and perform forensic investigation. May oversee the assessment of information security systems.
Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
Medium50.80%
Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.
Electrical Engineers
Medium51.39%
Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.
Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
Medium47.85%
Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.
Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists
Medium48.06%
Design and implement radio frequency identification device (RFID) systems used to track shipments or goods.
Mechanical Engineers
Medium50.83%
Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment such as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.
Mechatronics Engineers
Medium50.13%
Research, design, develop, or test automation, intelligent systems, smart devices, or industrial systems control.
Microsystems Engineers
Medium45.90%
Research, design, develop, or test microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices.
Robotics Engineers
Medium49.96%
Research, design, develop, or test robotic applications.
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Medium56.65%
Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Medium35.83%
Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Medium44.30%
Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.
Robotics Technicians
Medium42.51%
Build, install, test, or maintain robotic equipment or related automated production systems.
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Medium48.38%
Apply theory and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop, test, or adjust machinery and equipment under direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Medium50.00%
Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment
Medium43.09%
Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Medium46.26%
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Medium45.73%
Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
Computer Network Support Specialists
Medium55.92%
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Computer User Support Specialists
Medium55.42%
Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Medium56.77%
Design or configure wired, wireless, and satellite communications systems for voice, video, and data services. Supervise installation, service, and maintenance.
Database Architects
Medium50.12%
Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality.
Data Warehousing Specialists
Medium49.22%
Design, model, or implement corporate data warehousing activities. Program and configure warehouses of database information and provide support to warehouse users.
Computer Programmers
Medium53.56%
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
Web Developers
Medium61.87%
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Medium60.00%
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
Video Game Designers
Medium46.94%
Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.
Penetration Testers
Medium51.14%
Evaluate network system security by conducting simulated internal and external cyberattacks using adversary tools and techniques. Attempt to breach and exploit critical systems and gain access to sensitive information to assess system security.
Blockchain Engineers
Medium51.47%
Maintain and support distributed and decentralized blockchain-based networks or block-chain applications such as cryptocurrency exchange, payment processing, document sharing, and digital voting. Design and deploy secure block-chain design patterns and solutions over geographically distributed networks using advanced technologies. May assist with infrastructure setup and testing for application transparency and security.
Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
Medium47.18%
Design objects, facilities, and environments to optimize human well-being and overall system performance, applying theory, principles, and data regarding the relationship between humans and respective technology. Investigate and analyze characteristics of human behavior and performance as it relates to the use of technology.
Photonics Engineers
Medium48.01%
Design technologies specializing in light information or light energy, such as laser or fiber optics technology.
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Medium44.43%
Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers
Medium45.35%
Repair, maintain, or install computers, word processing systems, automated teller machines, and electronic office machines, such as duplicating and fax machines.
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers
High68.97%
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.