Rather than just using a computers, computer engineers apply scientific theory and engineering design to use and develop new computer hardware or software (see also: Software Engineer). They write programs to solve problems and create more efficient ways of doing things. They also design new systems and machines, like robots, that rely on computers to operate.
Education
Most computer engineers have bachelor's degrees. Those working with hardware or machines typically have degrees in computer or electrical engineering, whereas those dealing with software have degrees in computer science or software engineering.
Lifestyle
Computer engineers can work anywhere there are computers, and telecommuting is becoming quite common for many computer professionals. They usually work 40-hour weeks, but can work longer hours on special jobs or projects with pressing deadlines. Computer engineers often work with teams of other engineers or scientists.
Skills
You are a Computer Engineer, if you:
- Want to keep getting better at things
- Can think creatively
- Can work on a team or alone
- Can be focused and patient
- Enjoy big challenges
- Can use and remember imporatnt facts and details
- Are interested in computer modeling
Salary
The starting salary for a computer engineer (2009):
B.S. degree
$61,017
M.S. degree
$78,500
Ph.D.
$108,333
Examples
- Create software that detects brain tumors earlier
- Design a feather-light laptop
- Develop user-friendly blogging software
- Oversee the computer network for a telecommunications company
- Predict the strength of earthquakes through computer simulation