What are the most common entry-level computer hardware engineering roles?

If you are interested in working with computer hardware, you might be wondering what kind of roles are available for entry-level engineers. Computer hardware engineering is a broad field that covers the design, development, testing, and installation of various components and systems, such as processors, memory, storage, networking, and peripherals. In this article, we will explore some of the most common entry-level computer hardware engineering roles, what they entail, and what skills and qualifications you need to pursue them.

1 Hardware Design Engineer

A hardware design engineer is responsible for creating the schematic and layout of a circuit board, using software tools such as CAD and EDA. They also perform simulations, debugging, and verification to ensure that the circuit meets the specifications and requirements. A hardware design engineer needs to have a strong background in electrical engineering, digital logic, analog circuits, and computer architecture. They also need to be familiar with various hardware standards, protocols, and interfaces, such as PCIe, USB, SATA, and HDMI.

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Jeremiah Tate

Sr. Hardware Design Engineer at Microsoft | Ex-Intel
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In my experience: - A familiarity with system-verilog is very important. - An eagerness to learn-it-all - For verification, solid experience in UVM and python scripting. - For design, an ability to write unit tests in python and simple testbenches in UVM/system verilog.

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2 Hardware Test Engineer

A hardware test engineer is responsible for testing the functionality, performance, reliability, and compatibility of a hardware product, using various methods and tools, such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic analyzers, and test software. They also identify and troubleshoot any defects or issues, and report the results and feedback to the design team. A hardware test engineer needs to have a solid understanding of hardware design, testing principles, quality assurance, and debugging techniques. They also need to be proficient in scripting languages, such as Python, Perl, or Bash, to automate test procedures and analyze data.

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3 Hardware Support Engineer

A hardware support engineer is responsible for providing technical support and assistance to customers, clients, or internal users who encounter problems or issues with a hardware product. They also install, configure, update, and maintain the hardware systems and devices, and ensure that they operate smoothly and efficiently. A hardware support engineer needs to have a good knowledge of hardware components, systems, and troubleshooting methods. They also need to have excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks.

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4 Embedded Systems Engineer

An embedded systems engineer is responsible for developing and programming the software that runs on a hardware device, such as a microcontroller, microprocessor, or FPGA. They also integrate the software with the hardware, and optimize the performance, functionality, and power consumption of the system. An embedded systems engineer needs to have a strong background in computer science, software engineering, and embedded systems. They also need to be skilled in programming languages, such as C, C++, or Assembly, and embedded software tools, such as compilers, debuggers, and IDEs.

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5 Hardware Engineer Intern

A hardware engineer intern is a student or a recent graduate who works on a hardware project under the supervision and guidance of a senior engineer or a mentor. They also learn from the experience and exposure to the hardware engineering field, and gain valuable skills and knowledge. A hardware engineer intern needs to have a basic understanding of hardware design, testing, and development, as well as a passion and curiosity for learning new things. They also need to be flexible, adaptable, and eager to take on challenges and responsibilities.

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Jeremiah Tate

Sr. Hardware Design Engineer at Microsoft | Ex-Intel
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Being a great Hardware Engineering Intern requires you to be a learn-it-all. The problems that you solve in the field will often require more than just programming knowledge. Be curious, never afraid to seek help, and eager to learn! If you lead with this mindset the problems you solve are insanely rewarding/satisfying.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are the most common entry-level computer hardware engineering roles?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Hardware Design Engineer

2 Hardware Test Engineer

3 Hardware Support Engineer

4 Embedded Systems Engineer

5 Hardware Engineer Intern

6 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Hardware

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What are the most common entry-level computer hardware engineering roles?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Hardware Design Engineer

2 Hardware Test Engineer

3 Hardware Support Engineer

4 Embedded Systems Engineer

5 Hardware Engineer Intern

6 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Hardware

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