Computer Engineer Career

The computer industry has been dubbed as one of the fastest growing industries especially in developed societies. Virtually everything is dependent in one way or the other on computers. Apart from the existing applications for computers, new ones are constantly being introduced. As a result, there’s an increasing demand for specialists in computer engineering to manage and improve the myriads of systems and applications.

What is a Computer Engineer?

A computer engineer is a trained professional in the development, designing, testing, implementation, evaluation and maintenance of hardware, software and computer systems generally. Computer engineers are primarily responsible for the incorporation of computers into everyday life. Computer engineers are divided into two categories: hardware and software engineers and these professionals are responsible for the proper functioning of computer systems.

Computer Engineer Job Duties

A computer hardware engineer is responsible for the design, testing and development of the hardware components of the computer. He or she also supervises the production and installation of the components. A computer software engineer on the other hand is responsible for the design, development, testing and evaluation of software programs used by computers.

Computer Engineer Job Skills

A computer engineer career requires the possession of certain skill sets. Computer engineers usually need to do a lot of tasks at the same time. Hence the ability to concentrate and pay attention to details and still achieve the objective is desirable. Good communication skills and being able to function as part of a team also enhance a computer engineer career.

Computer Engineer Education

Hardware engineers usually require a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering in order to be employable while software engineers usually need to possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering. Graduate degrees are usually required for senior level and more complex jobs. Professional certification programs are also available and serve to enhance knowledge, skill and professionalism.

Computer Engineer Salary

Entry level computer engineering graduates typically earn more than their counterparts in other fields. According to a BLS May 2009 survey, the median annual salary for computer engineer careers was $98,820. The top 10% earned more than 148,910 and the bottom 10% earned less than $60,690. The middle 50% earned between $77,280 and $124,120.

Computer Engineer Job Outlook

The outlook for computer engineering jobs is favorable. This is because of the proliferation of companies that require the services of computer engineers to help them achieve optimal performance. The demand for the integration of computerized technologies and systems into businesses has increased the demand for both computer hardware and software engineers and it will still increase.

Undoubtedly, all the points stated above clearly show that the efficiency and optimal performance of any organization that desires to stay relevant will depend greatly on the incorporation of computerized systems into its operations. As such, both computer hardware and software engineers will always be in demand for implementation and maintenance of these systems.