Computer engineering is a field that integrates electrical engineering and computer science. Computer engineers build devices, design computer networks and develop new technologies. They focus on computer hardware and try to understand how to optimize hardware for different applications by understanding how software interacts with hardware.
The future of computer engineering is bright. As more and more electronic devices become embedded in daily life, the need for computer engineers will rise. The rapid increase in Internet of Things (IoT) devices, for example, can show how computer devices are becoming ubiquitous.
Your salary as a computer engineer depends on several factors, such as education, experience, and the industry. You’ll find opportunities in telecommunications, aerospace, government agencies, and many others.
Depending on the field of computer engineering you work in, you may be designing and testing software or hardware systems or working with other computer system professionals to develop information security systems.
With plentiful options in this growing field, including opportunities with some of the top tech employers and in the best locations, finding a job as a computer engineer is a popular choice.
What do computer engineers do?
Computer engineers design, test, implement and maintain computer software and hardware systems. They ensure both the physical hardware components and software programming components work together smoothly for their clients. Some computer engineers specialize in fields like robotics, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, mobile apps and operating systems.
Computer engineer duties include:
- building computers and computer systems
- researching software and computer hardware
- designing and testing computer hardware components, such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices and routers
- writing and testing software for mobile devices and computers
- designing, setting up and testing networks
- managing operating systems
- designing and testing robots
- creating programming to support a range of products, from aircraft components to surgical technology
- troubleshooting any concerns with hardware or software
Computer engineer job requirements
Becoming a computer engineer has several requirements, including:
Education
Many positions in this field require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Some computer engineers also major in mathematics, software engineering or electrical engineering. Many engineers also have master’s degrees or doctorates. Obtaining a Master of Business Administration, besides an undergraduate engineering degree, is useful if you’re interested in corporate leadership.
Computer engineers might earn master’s degrees in computer science to specialize their knowledge in a specific subject. A doctorate is useful for engineers interested in research or teaching jobs.
Certifications
Computer engineers can acquire several certifications to demonstrate their expertise in different types of software, hardware and programming languages. Here are some examples of certifications for computer engineers:
- Cisco Certifications. This certification offers levels of certifications for computer engineers, including the Cisco Certified Network Associate, which teaches how to install, monitor and troubleshoot Cisco infrastructure products. Cisco Certified Network Professional is for those with at least one year of networking experience and teaches network planning, implementation and troubleshooting.
- Meta Front-End Developer Professional Certificate. This certification from Meta helps you develop your ability to develop front-end web applications.
- Microsoft Certifications. A Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) demonstrates expertise with Microsoft solutions, such as Azure, SQL 2016 and Universal Windows Platform. Microsoft also offers the Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer, which requires candidates to first earn the MCSA certification and then pass development and programming exams that enhance a developer’s abilities in application development.
- Certified Information Security Manager. Offered by a nonprofit called the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), this certification shows the recipient to design and oversee information security systems. To earn this certification, candidates need at least five years of experience in information security, pass the exam and renew the certification every five years.
Training
Much of a computer engineer’s training occurs while obtaining their education, whether by completing hands-on projects, participating in labs or learning during an internship. Once hired, a computer engineer receives training from their employer in the specific systems and requirements of the company.
Computer engineers may receive training in the form of conferences and seminars. During a conference, a computer engineer can learn the latest updates in computer frameworks, new programming languages and different technologies. They can also network with fellow experts who can share knowledge and information on industry trends.
Skills required for computer engineers
While engineers in different industries use a variety of skills in their work, some skills apply to all types of computer engineers. Many employers require computer engineers to have certain skills to effectively complete their work. Required skills include:
Programming and coding
Computer engineers often code in multiple languages, such as JavaScript, SQL, Python, C++ and HTML. Although it’s not necessary to know them all, many engineers are fluent in one or two, especially those that are similar to one another. Typically, a company uses one or two main coding languages, so the required languages may vary based on where you work.
Analytical skills
A computer engineer’s job entails identifying a problem, developing a solution, implementing the solution and troubleshooting the result. This requires a detail-oriented and meticulous analysis of each task they complete. Having analytical skills equips computer engineers to review an issue thoroughly to accurately solve the problem.
Learning
Techniques and technology in computer engineering consistently evolve, and computer engineers can use learning skills to develop new abilities. This can help them stay up-to-date with industry trends and demands.
Time management
Computer engineers often juggle several projects or multiple aspects of one large project. Computer engineers prioritize tasks, create timelines for work completion and adhere to deadlines. The ability to effectively manage time is critical for completing projects efficiently.
Teamwork
Computer engineers collaborate on teams with designers, testers, systems experts, security experts, researchers, salespeople and marketing staff who work together to launch a product. Software engineers often delegate, accept responsibilities and share ideas with all team members.
The ability to work as a team can streamline projects and enhance the quality of the final result.
Computer engineer salary
Currently, the average annual salary for a computer engineer is $121,515 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.
According to Glassdoor, a computer engineer’s estimated average salary is $83,798 per year. This figure includes a base yearly salary of $74,724 per year and $9,073 in additional annual pay. Additional pay insights may include profit-sharing, commissions, or bonuses. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that computer engineering opportunities will increase by 5% between 2021 and 2031.
This projection is in line with the average growth for all occupations.
While there are annual salaries as high as $137,500 and as low as $48,500, the majority of computer engineer salaries currently range between $111,500 (25th percentile) to $131,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $137,000 annually across the United States. The average salary range for a computer engineer does not vary by much (about $20,000).
This suggests that regardless of location, there are not many opportunities for increased pay or advancement, even with several years of experience.
The table below shows a salary breakdown for computer engineers by state:
| State | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $129,179 | $10,764 | $2,484 | $62.11 |
| Wyoming | $128,241 | $10,686 | $2,466 | $61.65 |
| Wisconsin | $126,551 | $10,545 | $2,433 | $60.84 |
| Washington | $126,234 | $10,519 | $2,427 | $60.69 |
| Massachusetts | $125,669 | $10,472 | $2,416 | $60.42 |
| Indiana | $125,476 | $10,456 | $2,413 | $60.33 |
| Alaska | $125,470 | $10,455 | $2,412 | $60.32 |
| Oregon | $124,569 | $10,380 | $2,395 | $59.89 |
| North Dakota | $124,313 | $10,359 | $2,390 | $59.77 |
| Arizona | $122,882 | $10,240 | $2,363 | $59.08 |
| Hawaii | $121,883 | $10,156 | $2,343 | $58.60 |
| New Mexico | $121,661 | $10,138 | $2,339 | $58.49 |
| Montana | $121,029 | $10,085 | $2,327 | $58.19 |
| Minnesota | $120,646 | $10,053 | $2,320 | $58.00 |
| Colorado | $119,913 | $9,992 | $2,306 | $57.65 |
| New York | $119,733 | $9,977 | $2,302 | $57.56 |
| Alabama | $119,518 | $9,959 | $2,298 | $57.46 |
| Nevada | $118,635 | $9,886 | $2,281 | $57.04 |
| Ohio | $117,732 | $9,811 | $2,264 | $56.60 |
| South Dakota | $117,488 | $9,790 | $2,259 | $56.49 |
| Vermont | $116,612 | $9,717 | $2,242 | $56.06 |
| Rhode Island | $115,381 | $9,615 | $2,218 | $55.47 |
| Iowa | $114,298 | $9,524 | $2,198 | $54.95 |
| Connecticut | $113,774 | $9,481 | $2,187 | $54.70 |
| Delaware | $113,477 | $9,456 | $2,182 | $54.56 |
| Tennessee | $112,408 | $9,367 | $2,161 | $54.04 |
| Virginia | $112,143 | $9,345 | $2,156 | $53.91 |
| Mississippi | $112,110 | $9,342 | $2,155 | $53.90 |
| Utah | $111,752 | $9,312 | $2,149 | $53.73 |
| Georgia | $111,338 | $9,278 | $2,141 | $53.53 |
| Illinois | $110,763 | $9,230 | $2,130 | $53.25 |
| Maryland | $109,975 | $9,164 | $2,114 | $52.87 |
| Pennsylvania | $109,696 | $9,141 | $2,109 | $52.74 |
| California | $109,438 | $9,119 | $2,104 | $52.61 |
| Nebraska | $107,848 | $8,987 | $2,074 | $51.85 |
| Maine | $107,147 | $8,928 | $2,060 | $51.51 |
| Missouri | $106,599 | $8,883 | $2,049 | $51.25 |
| New Hampshire | $106,536 | $8,878 | $2,048 | $51.22 |
| South Carolina | $105,561 | $8,796 | $2,030 | $50.75 |
| Kansas | $105,523 | $8,793 | $2,029 | $50.73 |
| Louisiana | $105,333 | $8,777 | $2,025 | $50.64 |
| Idaho | $104,495 | $8,707 | $2,009 | $50.24 |
| Oklahoma | $104,442 | $8,703 | $2,008 | $50.21 |
| Texas | $103,615 | $8,634 | $1,992 | $49.82 |
| North Carolina | $103,381 | $8,615 | $1,988 | $49.70 |
| Kentucky | $99,622 | $8,301 | $1,915 | $47.90 |
| Michigan | $99,337 | $8,278 | $1,910 | $47.76 |
| Florida | $98,532 | $8,211 | $1,894 | $47.37 |
| Arkansas | $94,518 | $7,876 | $1,817 | $45.44 |
| West Virginia | $84,719 | $7,059 | $1,629 | $40.73 |
Factors affecting computer engineer salary
The salary you can expect to earn depends on your work field. Your level of education and experience will affect your earnings, industry, and location. Additional certifications and specializations can increase your earning potential, and if you are enrolled in a degree program, you may find an internship opportunity.
Education
66% of computer engineers hold a bachelor’s degree, 14% hold a master’s degree, and 11% hold an associate degree. Most hardware engineers study computer engineering, computer science, or electrical engineering.
Certifications
You can seek certifications as a stepping-stone to further education or to enter the field. If you’re already working in a computer engineering position, certifications can help advance your career.
Vendor certifications can increase your knowledge and skills and enhance your resume if you’re seeking a career as a computer engineer or want to advance in your current position. Some certifications include:
- Linux Foundation Certified Engineer
- Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
- Red Hat Certified Engineer
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
- Professional Software Engineering Master (PSEM)
Certificate programs are also available. Some popular certificates are found in areas including:
- Machine Learning
- Internet Engineering
- Computer Security
Level of experience
Entering the field of computer engineering typically requires a degree, preferably a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a closely related field. While in college, experience gained through an internship or cooperative education (Co-op) benefits your career search.
A Co-op allows students to take their regular studies and work at a full-time paid job in their field of study. Participating in a Co-op can offer you hands-on experience to add to your resume, and some schools also offer college credit.
Recent graduates can also apply for internships to add to their resumes. Attending college career recruitments can lead you to job opportunities that can provide you with experience to advance your career.
Industry
As a computer engineer, the industries you can enter are vast. You can work in system design, web development, research, manufacturing, security, and with the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation hires digital forensic examiners, data analysts and scientists, and computer scientists.
Top companies
If your goal is to work for one of the major tech companies as a computer engineer, you can expect good working conditions. Typically these corporations have higher earnings and benefits that a small company might not be able to offer.
Google is ranked as one of the highest-paying companies, offering an attractive benefits package and work environment. Apple is also highly rated as one of the best tech companies to work for. They offer flexibility for those with family commitments, and they offer their employees discounts on their products.
If you’re interested in working for a social media company, Facebook ranks high as a good place to work with plenty of perks. The company has a high employee retention rate, so it may be more competitive.
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