What Computer Hardware Engineers do
The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database describes the work of Computer Hardware Engineers this way: "Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components."
The core tasks O*NET records for this occupation include: "Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology"; "Provide technical support to designers, marketing and sales departments, suppliers, engineers and other team members throughout the product development and implementation process"; "Test and verify hardware and support peripherals to ensure that they meet specifications and requirements, by recording and analyzing test data"; "Monitor functioning of equipment and make necessary modifications to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications"; "Build, test, and modify product prototypes, using working models or theoretical models constructed with computer simulation".
Education, experience and training
According to the BLS Employment Projections, the typical education needed to enter this occupation is bachelor's degree.
Job outlook for Computer Hardware Engineers
The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 76,100 jobs in this occupation in 2025 and projects 83,000 in 2035, an increase of 6,900 jobs (+9.1%). That is faster than the 3.5% projected for all occupations.
About 4,100 openings a year are projected on average, counting both new positions and positions vacated by workers who retire or switch occupations. Relative to today's employment that is 5.4% a year, against 10.3% for all occupations. BLS lists a national median annual wage of $161,740, compared with $50,980 for all occupations.
Where Computer Hardware Engineers earn the most
Published data currently covers California, where the employment-weighted average of local median wages is $192,192. More states are added as pages are published.
Occupations related to Computer Hardware Engineers
Other occupations in the same SOC minor group (17-2000) include Electrical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Industrial Engineers and Civil Engineers.
Frequently asked questions about Computer Hardware Engineers
How much do Computer Hardware Engineers earn in the United States?
BLS lists a national median annual wage of $161,740.
Is Computer Hardware Engineers a growing occupation?
BLS projects employment to grow by 9.1% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3.5% for all occupations, with about 4,100 openings a year.
What education do Computer Hardware Engineers need?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree, according to BLS.