Sharon
What exactly does a computer engineer do?
I'd like to know because I'm learning about this in school and considering it as my career. #engineering
5 answers
Iliya Koreshev
Iliya’s Answer
Computer Engineering involves working at the low level of computer infrastructure. Most computer engineers work with circuit designs, low level firmware, and integrating components into larger systems. It is a discipline that is more software oriented and less hardware oriented than Electrical Engineering which is more concentrated on actual circuit and hardware design. Yet it is also more hardware oriented and less software oriented than Software Engineering which is concerned with writing the higher level software to run on the machines.
Think of it this way:
Electrical Engineers design the hardware that runs code
Software Engineers write the software programs to run on the hardware designed by Electrical Engineers
Computer Engineers take care of linking the hardware and the software by designing intermediate hardware and writing low level firmware for it.
So do you spend all day writing programs? Or are you working on electronics in a lab? Or both?
John
As a software engineer I currently spend my day writing programs exclusively. I did my Master's degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering so when I was working on that I had to deal with much more hardware and electronics in a lab.
Iliya Koreshev
As a software engineer I currently spend my day writing programs exclusively. I did my Master's degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering so when I was working on that I had to deal with much more hardware and electronics in a lab.
Iliya Koreshev
David Chouinard
David’s Answer
Check out: https://careervillage.org/questions/95/what-do-computer-engineers-do (As a software engineer, I can vouch for the replies; they're excellent)
Brian Schunck
Brian’s Answer
There are several names for the engineering disciplines that involve computers: software developer, software engineer, computer scientist, computer engineer, and others. The term computer engineer usually means engineers who work with the actual hardware of the computer, rather than the software; but they need to know a lot about software, so computer engineering would include courses on software. Computer engineers also take courses on electrical engineering, because they need to know something about the electronic circuits inside the computer. It is a good example of engineering disciplines that are hybrids, requiring a combination of skills for multiple engineering disciplines.
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
What Does a Computer Engineer Do?
Computer engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software systems. They work on a wide range of computing devices, from personal computers and smartphones to large-scale servers and supercomputers. The role of a computer engineer is crucial in the advancement of technology and the development of innovative solutions for various industries.
Key Responsibilities of a Computer Engineer:
Hardware Design: Computer engineers are involved in designing the physical components of computers, such as processors, memory modules, circuit boards, and peripherals. They need to have a deep understanding of electronics and digital systems to create efficient and reliable hardware solutions.
Software Development: In addition to hardware design, computer engineers also work on developing software applications and operating systems. They write code, test programs, and optimize software performance to ensure that it meets the requirements of users and businesses.
System Integration: Computer engineers are responsible for integrating hardware and software components to create functional computer systems. They need to ensure that all parts work together seamlessly to deliver the desired functionality.
Testing and Debugging: Testing is a critical part of the work done by computer engineers. They conduct various tests to identify bugs, errors, or vulnerabilities in both hardware and software systems. Debugging involves fixing these issues to improve system reliability.
Research and Innovation: Computer engineers often engage in research activities to explore new technologies, methodologies, and trends in the field of computing. Innovation is key to staying competitive in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
Project Management: Many computer engineers are involved in project management tasks, where they oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of complex IT projects within budget and schedule constraints.
Collaboration: Collaboration with other professionals such as software developers, electrical engineers, and network specialists is essential for computer engineers to successfully complete projects that require interdisciplinary expertise.
Skills Required for Computer Engineers:
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in programming languages like C++, Java, Python
Knowledge of computer architecture and digital systems
Understanding of algorithms and data structures
Ability to work in teams and communicate effectively
Attention to detail and precision in design
Education Requirements:
Most computer engineering positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field such as electrical engineering or computer science. Advanced roles may necessitate a master’s degree or Ph.D., especially for research or academic positions.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers): IEEE is a leading professional organization for computer engineers worldwide, providing valuable resources, publications, conferences, and standards in the field.
ACM (Association for Computing Machinery): ACM is another prominent organization that offers insights into cutting-edge research, education opportunities, publications, conferences related to computer engineering.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): BLS provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, salaries, educational requirements for various occupations including computer engineering which can offer valuable insights into the profession’s landscape.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information about the roles, responsibilities, skills required for computer engineers as well as educational pathways needed for pursuing a career in this field.
God Bless You,
JC.
Nicole Baillie
Nicole’s Answer
I think one of the many cool things about what a computer engineer does is that it often isn't the same. Part of the reason why there is variety in the type of work that a computer engineer does is because technology, which is the basis for lots of computer engineering, is constantly changing. In fact, I suggest to you that if you are seeking a career where the job is exact, you may find that computer engineering is not necessarily in that bucket.
As mentioned in previous answers, computer engineers do lots of things and I will add that they can do this work in areas of business or in areas of academia, that aren't considered typical IT areas. For example a computer engineer could be useful in creating an app, because maybe that computer engineer has an interest (or love) of coding...but the app itself could be use as an environmental tool or to help people learn how to speak different languages.
In my opinion, it is the limitless possibilities of the application of computer engineering that makes what a computer engineer does so very interesting, and for people who chose that field, it can be a very long lasting and rewarding career.
Best of luck to you!