What does a Hardware Engineer do?

Hardware Engineers design the components that power computers, such as sound and graphics cards, circuit boards, processors and memory storage devices. They also typically design the computer hardware used in other devices, such as medical equipment, vehicles and smartphones.

By performing the duties outlined in a Computer Hardware Engineer job description, they play an important role in developing new products and technologies. The testing and quality assurance responsibilities of Hardware Engineers reduce the risk of end-users experiencing technical issues. As a result, their work directly contributes to customer satisfaction rates while lowering liability risks for their employers.

Hardware Engineer skills and qualifications

Adding the following qualifications to your job description of a Hardware Engineer can help you identify and recruit quality candidates:

• Knowledge of hardware description languages (HDLs) and programming languages, such as Python and C++

• Understanding of relevant operating systems, such as iOS, Windows, Unix and Linux

• Computer skills to utilize computer-aided drafting (CAD), analytical, desktop communications, development environment, program testing, project management and other software programs

• Communication skills to collaborate with other Engineers, Software Developers and IT professionals

• Mathematical skills to utilize algebra, geometry, calculus and statistics throughout the development process

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues

• Analytical skills to interpret the results of testing and quality assurance audits

• Time management skills to complete assigned tasks within strict deadlines

Hardware Engineer experience requirements

How much experience a Hardware Engineer needs to perform their job duties proficiently depends on your open position. Employers typically place more emphasis on a candidate’s work portfolio than employment history.

An entry-level candidate with an impressive portfolio developed during school or an internship may have sufficient experience to join an established team of Hardware Engineers. If you’re looking for a supervisor or have a less experienced team, you may include a few years of work history as a requirement in your Hardware Engineer job description.

Hardware Engineer education and training requirements

The minimum education required for a Hardware Engineer is typically a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or information technology. Employers may prefer to hire candidates who hold master’s degrees for positions that involve highly specialized work or supervisory responsibilities.

In your Hardware Engineer job description, consider specifying that a relevant supplemental certification is a preferred qualification. Hardware Engineers can pursue a variety of credentials, such as the Certified Hardware and Technology Engineer (CHTE) designation granted by the Global Association for Quality Management (GAQM) and the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) certification awarded by CompTIA.

Job description samples for similar positions

If the job description of a Hardware Engineer explained above isn’t an exact match for your open position, check out these related job titles:

• Computer Engineer

• Electronics Engineer

• Software Engineer

• Systems Engineer

Hardware Engineer job description FAQs

What’s the difference between a Hardware Engineer and an Electronics Engineer?

Electronics Engineers and Hardware Engineers may design similar components, such as circuit boards and microprocessors. However, Computer Hardware Engineers typically develop computers and computer systems found in other devices. Electronics Engineers work on consumer electronics, industrial equipment, telecommunications devices and other products.

How do I make my Hardware Engineer job description more attractive to candidates?

To create an appealing Computer Hardware Engineer job description, consider highlighting the key benefits of working for your company with a bulleted list. You can emphasize tuition reimbursement programs, flexible working hours, remote work opportunities and benefits packages.

Who does a Hardware Engineer report to?

Who a Hardware Engineer reports to depends on your company’s organizational structure. A Senior Hardware Engineer may supervise a team of Engineers. Other times, a Hardware Project Manager, Hardware Engineering Manager or Hardware Engineering Director may serve as the direct supervisor.