Computer Hardware Engineers
O*NET 17-2061.00 · SOC 17-2061
Computer Hardware Engineer is a strong career choice. Median pay is $162k a year with +9.1% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 4,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design printed circuit boards for new computing hardware products
- →Test processor prototypes to verify speed and power performance
- →Troubleshoot hardware failures in servers and computing systems
- →Evaluate memory architecture to improve data processing efficiency
- →Write hardware specifications for manufacturers producing computer components
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Computer Hardware Engineer roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Computer Hardware Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Computer Hardware Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Computer Hardware Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Computer Hardware Engineers is projected to grow 9.1% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Computer Hardware Engineer make?
The median Computer Hardware Engineer earns $162k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Computer Hardware Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Computer Hardware Engineer at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 35% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 29% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Computer Hardware Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 9.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 4,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Computer Hardware Engineer?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Computer Hardware Engineer roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Computer Hardware Engineer?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Computer Hardware Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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