Computer Engineer Jobs for Hardware and Software Engineers: An Analysis

Computer engineer jobs are basically confined in an office environment in a traditional work schedule. In India, most engineering graduates opt for computer science specialization to become a computer engineer. In fact, amongst all the engineering branches, computer engineering is considered as the best branch. And India is considered as a digital and IT hub in present time as almost 70% of computer and IT talent globally is present here. So, there is a good demand for computer engineer jobs in the country. In common terminology, a computer engineer is also referred as a software engineer. But, in reality, computer engineering is divided into two basic components: software engineering and hardware engineering, and job roles are different in both.

Difference between Computer Hardware Engineer and Software Engineer

A Computer Hardware Engineer deals with the computer hardware and also other peripherals related to the device. On the other hand, a Computer Software Engineer works with the design, development, and implementation of new software. Broadly speaking, computer hardware engineering focuses on hardware development, while computer science or software engineering focuses on software development. Hence, the computer engineer jobs for both are different. In India, software industry has more job opportunities than hardware engineering industry.

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Computer Engineer Jobs as a Software Engineer

Computer engineer jobs as a Software Engineer include the responsibilities of doing the following kind of works:

• Developing, testing and evaluating the software that make our laptops/computer devices work
• Developing new computer games and business applications
• Design and development of new operating systems
• Constructing and managing a company’s computer system and providing technical support
• Improve an existing software to correct errors
• Develop documentation, layouts, diagrams, flowcharts, codes, and so on. 

Computer Engineer Jobs as a Hardware Engineer

Aspirants can also apply for hardware computer engineer jobs. The job responsibilities include the following:

• Research, design, develop, and test computer systems/laptops and other components like as CPUs, monitors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers
• Evaluate the performance of the various parts that make up the systems and suggest improvements for the same
• Responsible for the hardware configuration of a computer
• Increase or improve the speed, efficiency and functions of the systems
• Oversee the manufacturing process of a computer hardware
• Oversee the installation and functioning of new systems etc. 

Eligibility Criteria to Apply for Computer Engineer Jobs

Eligibility requirement for hardware computer engineer jobs is that the candidate should have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering. Candidates should have knowledge on some important topics like as computer design, engineering electronics, electric circuits, Statistics for engineers, and so on.

To apply for software computer engineer jobs, candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in software engineering or computer science. Some relevant topics that candidates should have knowledge are like as systems analysis, database design, programming, critical thinking and technical writing.

However, for better job prospects and stability in a computer engineering career, for high-ranking positions with branded companies, or for some specialties, a master's degree is recommended. Computer engineering technology is a field that is constantly evolving and changing, with new technology being introduced almost every day. Hence, to have a successful career in computer engineering, continued education and to remain updated is vital.

Which is better?

It is difficult to say which is better. After all, to be successful in any job, it also involves your interest, passion, hard work and dedication. As a matter of fact, to join in hardware computer engineer jobs, the candidate should have knowledge of both computer science and electrical engineering. But, in reality, it is difficult to find someone who is both a computer engineer and an electrical engineer. In some companies, electrical engineers are recruited for computer hardware jobs. Hardware engineering is more tedious than software engineering and can be very challenging. It requires more math, physics, logic, and patience. If you interested in such a profile, you can definite opt for computer engineer jobs in the computer hardware industry. But, if you are more keen towards designing, programming and developing, then you should opt for computer engineer jobs in the software industry. Both types of computer engineer jobs have their bright prospects to look forward to a successful career.