You’re interested in computer engineering. What are the most common career paths?

1 Hardware Engineer

Hardware engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing, and troubleshooting the physical components of computers and other devices, such as processors, circuit boards, memory chips, and sensors. They work closely with software engineers to ensure that the hardware and software are compatible and efficient. Hardware engineers need a strong background in electrical engineering, mathematics, physics, and computer science, as well as skills in programming, debugging, and hardware design tools. Hardware engineers can work in various industries, such as aerospace, telecommunications, robotics, gaming, and manufacturing.

3 Embedded Systems Engineer

Embedded systems engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing, and integrating the software and hardware that control the functionality of embedded systems, such as smart phones, medical devices, automotive systems, and IoT devices. They use specialized programming languages, platforms, and tools to create software that interacts with the hardware and the environment. Embedded systems engineers need a strong background in both hardware and software engineering, as well as skills in programming, debugging, and embedded systems design tools. Embedded systems engineers can work in various sectors, such as healthcare, automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.

4 Systems Engineer

Systems engineers are responsible for overseeing the development, integration, and operation of complex systems that involve multiple components, such as hardware, software, networks, databases, and human factors. They use systems engineering principles and methods to analyze the requirements, specifications, risks, and trade-offs of the system, and to coordinate the design, testing, and implementation of the system. Systems engineers need a strong background in engineering, mathematics, and computer science, as well as skills in systems analysis, project management, and communication. Systems engineers can work in various fields, such as defense, aerospace, telecommunications, and transportation.

5 Computer Engineering Manager

Computer engineering managers are responsible for leading, managing, and supervising teams of computer engineers who work on specific projects or products. They plan, organize, and allocate the resources, budget, and schedule of the project or product, and monitor the progress, quality, and performance of the engineering work. They also communicate with clients, stakeholders, and other managers to ensure that the project or product meets the expectations and goals. Computer engineering managers need a strong background in computer engineering, as well as skills in leadership, management, and communication. Computer engineering managers can work in any industry that employs computer engineers, such as software, hardware, embedded systems, or systems engineering.