Career in Computer Engineering

A computer engineer, also known as a software engineer, is responsible for developing, testing and evaluating the software that runs our computers. They can help develop new computer games and business applications or even design entirely new operating systems. An IT engineer may also be responsible for building and managing an organization's IT system and technical support. A computer engineer usually works in an office or laboratory as a member of a team and benefits from a traditional work schedule.

Career Outlook

A career in computer engineering is a broad field and offers several alternative career paths. Those interested in working with engineers and developers to create code for software and systems should consider a career in computer programming. After reviewing software developers' plans and operational diagrams, programmers use specialized tools and programming languages to produce the finished product. They also analyze and test existing products to identify and repair errors.

Most computer programming professionals obtain a bachelor's degree in a field of computer science. However, knowledge of programming languages and an associate's degree may be sufficient for some employers. Completing an internship is a way to gain valuable work experience desired by many employers. Currently, the BLS expects an 8% drop in job opportunities for programmers between 2014 and 2024. The median annual salary for these professionals was $ 79,530 in 2015, as shown by the BLS figures.

If designing and supervising the installation of a communication network seems intriguing, becoming a computer network architect can be a good career option. In addition to determining the necessary equipment, network architects also find ways to secure network data, choose equipment location, communicate plans to management, and explore technological advances that may be needed. be beneficial for the organization.

Economic Outlook

A bachelor's degree in computer engineering, information systems or a related program can open employment opportunities in the field, but some employers are seeking candidates with a master's degree in business administration (MBA). According to BLS data, job growth of 9% is expected for the 2014-2024 computer network architects. As reported by the BLS in May 2015, Network Architects earned a median annual salary of $ 100,240.

Another possible career path in this industry is that of a hardware engineer. As the name implies, this career focuses on the creation, improvement, and evaluation of the different parts that make up computers and computer systems such as routers, memory cards, CPUs, sound cards, network components, etc. would work in a lab, testing your ideas; but you could also be involved in the manufacturing or installation of this industry.

However, due to the industry's interest in software advancement, the BLS predicted that hardware engineers would see employment growth slower than the average of 3% in 2014-2024. In May 2015, the Bureau reported that the median annual salary of computer engineers was $ 111,730, with the top 10% earning $ 167,100 or more.