5 answers
Andree' Katherine
Student
Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, Philippines
1
Question
Asked
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What jobs are usually inclined with computer engineering?
Like when it comes to hardware or embedded systems what career path are there?
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5 answers
Bryan Kalkhoff
Engineer
18
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Bryan’s Answer
Hello!
I had this exact question when I entered college and this is what I kind of found out.
Computer engineering is a VERY broad title. It combines software, hardware, and to an extent network engineering. As a computer engineer you generally give up deep expertise on hardware or software for a broader understanding on the two and how to make them interact with each other.
Gaining a deeper understanding depends on you (electives) and the school you go to. For example, for me I went to Iowa State. At Iowa State, Computer Engineers (CPrE) are treated more as software/network engineers. By that I mean more of the required classes were software base. HOWEVER I made my focus on computer architecture. Meaning my electives were more hardware/firmware oriented. Confusing I know :)
For jobs, you generally don't see any that ONLY ask for computer engineers. You'll see "A degree in hardware/computer engineering" or "A degree in software/computer engineering or Computer Science".
I've had friends in CPrE go into both hardware and software positions. Some of these positions include:
Firmware engineer for consumer electronics
Quantum Firmware Engineer
FPGA Designer
VLSI Engineer
Circuit Board Designer
Test Engineer
The TLDR is Computer Engineer is extremely broad but gives you a lot of possibilities. You won't have trouble finding jobs if you pursue this path, you will just be forced to take a combination of software and hardware classes in school (which to some is a downside and often leads them to switch majors).
Hope this helps a little!
I had this exact question when I entered college and this is what I kind of found out.
Computer engineering is a VERY broad title. It combines software, hardware, and to an extent network engineering. As a computer engineer you generally give up deep expertise on hardware or software for a broader understanding on the two and how to make them interact with each other.
Gaining a deeper understanding depends on you (electives) and the school you go to. For example, for me I went to Iowa State. At Iowa State, Computer Engineers (CPrE) are treated more as software/network engineers. By that I mean more of the required classes were software base. HOWEVER I made my focus on computer architecture. Meaning my electives were more hardware/firmware oriented. Confusing I know :)
For jobs, you generally don't see any that ONLY ask for computer engineers. You'll see "A degree in hardware/computer engineering" or "A degree in software/computer engineering or Computer Science".
I've had friends in CPrE go into both hardware and software positions. Some of these positions include:
Firmware engineer for consumer electronics
Quantum Firmware Engineer
FPGA Designer
VLSI Engineer
Circuit Board Designer
Test Engineer
The TLDR is Computer Engineer is extremely broad but gives you a lot of possibilities. You won't have trouble finding jobs if you pursue this path, you will just be forced to take a combination of software and hardware classes in school (which to some is a downside and often leads them to switch majors).
Hope this helps a little!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Andree' Katherine,
Computer Engineering Career Paths:
Computer engineering is a broad field that offers various career paths, especially in hardware and embedded systems. Here are some common job roles associated with computer engineering:
Hardware Engineer: Hardware engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware components such as processors, memory devices, circuit boards, and networking equipment. They work on creating efficient and reliable hardware systems.
Embedded Systems Engineer: Embedded systems engineers focus on designing and developing embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems integrated into larger devices or machinery. These professionals work on programming microcontrollers, sensors, and other components to perform specific functions.
Firmware Engineer: Firmware engineers work on developing software that is embedded into hardware devices to control their operation. They write code that interacts directly with the hardware components to ensure proper functionality.
VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) Engineer: VLSI engineers design complex integrated circuits (ICs) by combining thousands or millions of transistors onto a single chip. They work on optimizing the performance and power efficiency of these ICs.
Network Engineer: Network engineers design and maintain computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and wireless networks. They ensure the smooth operation of network infrastructure and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Systems Architect: Systems architects design and oversee the implementation of complex computer systems. They analyze requirements, choose appropriate technologies, and create system architecture designs that meet the needs of organizations.
Robotics Engineer: Robotics engineers specialize in designing and building robotic systems for various applications such as manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration. They integrate hardware components with software algorithms to create functional robots.
Signal Processing Engineer: Signal processing engineers work on analyzing and manipulating signals such as audio, video, or sensor data using digital signal processing techniques. They develop algorithms to extract useful information from signals.
Control Systems Engineer: Control systems engineers design systems that regulate the behavior of dynamic systems such as industrial processes, aircraft autopilots, or robotic arms. They develop control algorithms to achieve desired system performance.
Test Engineer: Test engineers are responsible for verifying the functionality and performance of hardware or software products through testing procedures. They identify defects, analyze test results, and provide feedback to improve product quality.
These are just a few examples of the diverse career paths available in computer engineering, particularly in areas related to hardware and embedded systems.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
IEEE Xplore Digital Library: IEEE Xplore is a trusted source for research articles, conference papers, and technical standards related to computer engineering disciplines.
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM is a leading professional organization for computing professionals, providing valuable insights into various aspects of computer science and engineering careers.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on occupational outlooks, job descriptions, salaries, and educational requirements for various engineering occupations including computer engineering careers.
GOD BLESS YOU, RICHLY!
JC.
Computer Engineering Career Paths:
Computer engineering is a broad field that offers various career paths, especially in hardware and embedded systems. Here are some common job roles associated with computer engineering:
Hardware Engineer: Hardware engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware components such as processors, memory devices, circuit boards, and networking equipment. They work on creating efficient and reliable hardware systems.
Embedded Systems Engineer: Embedded systems engineers focus on designing and developing embedded systems, which are specialized computing systems integrated into larger devices or machinery. These professionals work on programming microcontrollers, sensors, and other components to perform specific functions.
Firmware Engineer: Firmware engineers work on developing software that is embedded into hardware devices to control their operation. They write code that interacts directly with the hardware components to ensure proper functionality.
VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) Engineer: VLSI engineers design complex integrated circuits (ICs) by combining thousands or millions of transistors onto a single chip. They work on optimizing the performance and power efficiency of these ICs.
Network Engineer: Network engineers design and maintain computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and wireless networks. They ensure the smooth operation of network infrastructure and troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Systems Architect: Systems architects design and oversee the implementation of complex computer systems. They analyze requirements, choose appropriate technologies, and create system architecture designs that meet the needs of organizations.
Robotics Engineer: Robotics engineers specialize in designing and building robotic systems for various applications such as manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration. They integrate hardware components with software algorithms to create functional robots.
Signal Processing Engineer: Signal processing engineers work on analyzing and manipulating signals such as audio, video, or sensor data using digital signal processing techniques. They develop algorithms to extract useful information from signals.
Control Systems Engineer: Control systems engineers design systems that regulate the behavior of dynamic systems such as industrial processes, aircraft autopilots, or robotic arms. They develop control algorithms to achieve desired system performance.
Test Engineer: Test engineers are responsible for verifying the functionality and performance of hardware or software products through testing procedures. They identify defects, analyze test results, and provide feedback to improve product quality.
These are just a few examples of the diverse career paths available in computer engineering, particularly in areas related to hardware and embedded systems.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
IEEE Xplore Digital Library: IEEE Xplore is a trusted source for research articles, conference papers, and technical standards related to computer engineering disciplines.
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM): ACM is a leading professional organization for computing professionals, providing valuable insights into various aspects of computer science and engineering careers.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on occupational outlooks, job descriptions, salaries, and educational requirements for various engineering occupations including computer engineering careers.
GOD BLESS YOU, RICHLY!
JC.
Emilio Zegarra
Senior Software Engineer
3
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Emilio’s Answer
Building upon the excellent suggestions previously provided, the ideal career trajectory would be to first gain a solid understanding of how embedded systems function. A great starting point would be securing an internship at a company that specializes in embedded systems, such as those that manufacture smart home devices. Your role during the internship could range from a junior engineer to a QA or Support Engineer. This experience will supplement your theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
As you establish a solid foundation, your next goal should be to secure an engineering role that primarily deals with the creation and integration of embedded systems. Throughout this journey, it's crucial to stay updated with technological advancements and emerging applications. This continuous learning will equip you with the expertise needed to progress in your career, enabling you not only to implement systems but also to suggest new ones, complete with their business justifications.
As you establish a solid foundation, your next goal should be to secure an engineering role that primarily deals with the creation and integration of embedded systems. Throughout this journey, it's crucial to stay updated with technological advancements and emerging applications. This continuous learning will equip you with the expertise needed to progress in your career, enabling you not only to implement systems but also to suggest new ones, complete with their business justifications.
Mike Vance
Software Developer
3
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Bryan Kalkhoff's answer is excellent. I will add -- there are many software jobs which are suitable for either a computer scientist or computer engineer, and there are many hardware jobs which are suitable for either an electrical engineer or computer engineer.
Computer engineering degrees are most desired when writing the lowest layers of a software stack interacting with hardware. Firmware and embedded systems programming is a sweet spot.
Hope this helps!
Computer engineering degrees are most desired when writing the lowest layers of a software stack interacting with hardware. Firmware and embedded systems programming is a sweet spot.
Hope this helps!
Jon Guerrero
Devops
6
Answers
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Jon’s Answer
In addition to the list of previously provided:
Computer Systems Analyst- Computer systems analysts study software systems in an organization and design new ways to improve their efficiency. They employ a knowledge of IT and business savvy to build and implement better computer systems and processes for an organization. These professionals have many responsibilities, but their most important task is to intimately know their client's business. Whether it's a small business or a massive firm, computer systems analysts understand how to use technology to leverage a business’s strengths. Analysts will then make recommendations for the best hardware and software to help the organization's computer system run more effectively.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write, edit, and test code that allows software and computer applications to function. These engineering professionals write and test the code that communicates with computers to complete certain functions, such as recalling data. Programmers use coding languages like Java and C++ to turn the programs designed by software engineers into instructions that the computer can read. When there are bugs or problems with the code, computer programmers run tests to diagnose and fix the problems. Writing code can be tedious. Luckily, programmers can automate some of the process using reference code libraries and computer assisted software. Computer programmers often work at software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning (ML) engineers research, design, and build self-learning artificial intelligence systems. They work as an essential part of larger data science teams in collaboration with data scientists, administrators, data analysts, data engineers, and data architects. ML engineers also commonly work with IT, software development, and sales or web development teams, depending on the structure of the organization. ML engineers’ main function is to act as a bridge between data scientists who focus on model-building for AI systems and the actual construction of those AI systems. They use statistics and models to research, analyze, and organize large sums of data, as well as run tests and optimize ML algorithms.
Web Developer
Web developers build and maintain websites. These engineers are experts on the operation of technology, computers, and web servers. They are also more than proficient with many software programs, web apps, and programming languages, such as HTML, JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, and C++. The work of web developers can be divided into three main parts: client-side scripting (or front end developing), server-side scripting (or back end developing), and database technology, which helps to keep a website running smoothly and effectively. Depending on the size of the project, it’s common that there will be three different types of web developers to handle each of these areas of work.
Web developers earn a median annual salary of $77,200 according to the BLS. This is an excellent career path for job security since it has a projected growth rate of 13% from 2020 to 2030, which is well above average. Like many other computer engineering roles, this one has positive job satisfaction due to a generally low- stress environment, good job outlook, and the possibility of a high salary and raises throughout the career.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts, also known as cybersecurity analysts, assess an organization’s digital security measures and plan and implement improvements to their computer systems. Cybersecurity analysts specialize in computer networks and IT infrastructure security. These engineers are experts in cyberattacks, malware, and the evolving behavior of cybercriminals. Their main responsibility is to minimize vulnerability, and actively anticipate and prevent attacks on their organization’s digital infrastructure. The security that this engineer provides extends to hardware, software, and the organization’s networks. This entails constant, around- the- clock monitoring, and diligent evaluation of potential threats.
Computer Forensics Analyst
Computer forensics analysts, also commonly referred to as digital forensics analysts, gather and analyze data relating to cyberattacks and illegal online activity. These engineers retrieve data such as photos, documents, and emails from compromised devices like computers, mobile devices, and hard drives. This data is used as digital evidence for court proceedings and other legal matters.
Game Developer
Game developers design concepts for video games and work to turn those concepts into reality. These engineers handle the technical side of game production. They use their strong computer programming skills and work with designers to create game engines and related assets. Game developers spend most of their time writing code to power the video games people enjoy every day.
IT Consultant
IT consultants advise organizations on how to use and optimize their technology systems and how they relate to business operations. These engineers give technical guidance and recommendations to prevent security threats to the digital infrastructure of their client’s company. They do this by analyzing code, predicting threats, improving existing systems, and advising corporations on how to best use IT to meet business goals. IT consultants employ their expertise in software, hardware, and programming to do their jobs effectively. Industries that most commonly need IT consultants include construction, healthcare, manufacturing, sales, pharmaceuticals, and financial services.
Hardware Engineer
Hardware engineers design, study, build, and test computer systems and their components. This type of engineer works with personal computers, mobile devices, embedded systems, circuit boards, routers, networks, memory, and processors to optimize the function of hardware. The work of hardware engineers doesn’t stop there, though—they also have a hand in designing, developing, testing, and debugging these products and systems. They do all this work with the goal of creating a product, such as a personal computer, that meets consumer needs. To pursue a hardware engineering career, professionals may want or need to seek a master’s degree, contrary to what is true for some of these other engineering careers.
Database Administrator
Database administrators (DBAs) create or organize systems to securely store data. DBAs are responsible for the health and safety of databases and making sure that data analysts can easily retrieve the information they need. DBAs often work alongside an organization’s management team to familiarize themselves with data needs and how they align with the business goals. Much of their work involves planning security measures and keeping data safe from unauthorized users, as many databases contain personal or financial information. DBAs also spend their time monitoring system performance to make sure everything is running as it should, fixing issues as they arise.
In addition, to these paths as you get deeper in your career, the management, director, c-level roles begin to become options and overall you no longer maybe as hands on as you were from beginning to mid career. I hope this helps.
Computer Systems Analyst- Computer systems analysts study software systems in an organization and design new ways to improve their efficiency. They employ a knowledge of IT and business savvy to build and implement better computer systems and processes for an organization. These professionals have many responsibilities, but their most important task is to intimately know their client's business. Whether it's a small business or a massive firm, computer systems analysts understand how to use technology to leverage a business’s strengths. Analysts will then make recommendations for the best hardware and software to help the organization's computer system run more effectively.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write, edit, and test code that allows software and computer applications to function. These engineering professionals write and test the code that communicates with computers to complete certain functions, such as recalling data. Programmers use coding languages like Java and C++ to turn the programs designed by software engineers into instructions that the computer can read. When there are bugs or problems with the code, computer programmers run tests to diagnose and fix the problems. Writing code can be tedious. Luckily, programmers can automate some of the process using reference code libraries and computer assisted software. Computer programmers often work at software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine learning (ML) engineers research, design, and build self-learning artificial intelligence systems. They work as an essential part of larger data science teams in collaboration with data scientists, administrators, data analysts, data engineers, and data architects. ML engineers also commonly work with IT, software development, and sales or web development teams, depending on the structure of the organization. ML engineers’ main function is to act as a bridge between data scientists who focus on model-building for AI systems and the actual construction of those AI systems. They use statistics and models to research, analyze, and organize large sums of data, as well as run tests and optimize ML algorithms.
Web Developer
Web developers build and maintain websites. These engineers are experts on the operation of technology, computers, and web servers. They are also more than proficient with many software programs, web apps, and programming languages, such as HTML, JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, and C++. The work of web developers can be divided into three main parts: client-side scripting (or front end developing), server-side scripting (or back end developing), and database technology, which helps to keep a website running smoothly and effectively. Depending on the size of the project, it’s common that there will be three different types of web developers to handle each of these areas of work.
Web developers earn a median annual salary of $77,200 according to the BLS. This is an excellent career path for job security since it has a projected growth rate of 13% from 2020 to 2030, which is well above average. Like many other computer engineering roles, this one has positive job satisfaction due to a generally low- stress environment, good job outlook, and the possibility of a high salary and raises throughout the career.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts, also known as cybersecurity analysts, assess an organization’s digital security measures and plan and implement improvements to their computer systems. Cybersecurity analysts specialize in computer networks and IT infrastructure security. These engineers are experts in cyberattacks, malware, and the evolving behavior of cybercriminals. Their main responsibility is to minimize vulnerability, and actively anticipate and prevent attacks on their organization’s digital infrastructure. The security that this engineer provides extends to hardware, software, and the organization’s networks. This entails constant, around- the- clock monitoring, and diligent evaluation of potential threats.
Computer Forensics Analyst
Computer forensics analysts, also commonly referred to as digital forensics analysts, gather and analyze data relating to cyberattacks and illegal online activity. These engineers retrieve data such as photos, documents, and emails from compromised devices like computers, mobile devices, and hard drives. This data is used as digital evidence for court proceedings and other legal matters.
Game Developer
Game developers design concepts for video games and work to turn those concepts into reality. These engineers handle the technical side of game production. They use their strong computer programming skills and work with designers to create game engines and related assets. Game developers spend most of their time writing code to power the video games people enjoy every day.
IT Consultant
IT consultants advise organizations on how to use and optimize their technology systems and how they relate to business operations. These engineers give technical guidance and recommendations to prevent security threats to the digital infrastructure of their client’s company. They do this by analyzing code, predicting threats, improving existing systems, and advising corporations on how to best use IT to meet business goals. IT consultants employ their expertise in software, hardware, and programming to do their jobs effectively. Industries that most commonly need IT consultants include construction, healthcare, manufacturing, sales, pharmaceuticals, and financial services.
Hardware Engineer
Hardware engineers design, study, build, and test computer systems and their components. This type of engineer works with personal computers, mobile devices, embedded systems, circuit boards, routers, networks, memory, and processors to optimize the function of hardware. The work of hardware engineers doesn’t stop there, though—they also have a hand in designing, developing, testing, and debugging these products and systems. They do all this work with the goal of creating a product, such as a personal computer, that meets consumer needs. To pursue a hardware engineering career, professionals may want or need to seek a master’s degree, contrary to what is true for some of these other engineering careers.
Database Administrator
Database administrators (DBAs) create or organize systems to securely store data. DBAs are responsible for the health and safety of databases and making sure that data analysts can easily retrieve the information they need. DBAs often work alongside an organization’s management team to familiarize themselves with data needs and how they align with the business goals. Much of their work involves planning security measures and keeping data safe from unauthorized users, as many databases contain personal or financial information. DBAs also spend their time monitoring system performance to make sure everything is running as it should, fixing issues as they arise.
In addition, to these paths as you get deeper in your career, the management, director, c-level roles begin to become options and overall you no longer maybe as hands on as you were from beginning to mid career. I hope this helps.