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What is a computer hardware developer and how to become one
The role of a computer hardware developer is to examine, develop, design, and maintain hardware, such as computer and electrical networks and systems.
They may have to, amongst other things, design and develop complex hardware, computer networks, and systems, collect and analyse performance, efficiency, and system data, maintain which is later used to make and implement improvements to the system, and oversee the development and manufacturing of said hardware, such as routers, memory cards, and smart devices. They are typically found working at high-tech companies and manufacturers, design and research firms, and sometimes even for the government.
A person hoping to begin work as a computer hardware developer generally must have a college degree in computer engineering, computer science, or a related subject, and previous experience working in a similar role. Analytical thinking and skills, as well as an excellent understanding of hardware, computer science, and software, are all key for doing well in this position.
Avg. Salary $99,546
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 5%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.43%
Asian 29.56%
Black or African American 8.19%
Hispanic or Latino 9.02%
Unknown 2.83%
White 49.96%
Genderfemale 23.57%
male 76.43%
Age - 43American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 43Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Computer hardware developer career paths
Key steps to become a computer hardware developer
Explore computer hardware developer education requirements
Start to develop specific computer hardware developer skills
Skills Percentages Firmware 36.55% Hardware Development 24.15% Python 13.08% Design Verification 7.94% C++ 5.70% Complete relevant computer hardware developer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer hardware developers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer hardware developer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer hardware developer resumes.Research computer hardware developer duties and responsibilities
- Work in LabView to control instruments and automate tests.
- Analyze and manage the project throughout SDLC, written/review specification documents.
- Experience in optimizing high-speed real-time ASIC design.
- Modify firmware DSP algorithms to optimize power consumption.
Prepare your computer hardware developer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your computer hardware developer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a computer hardware developer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable computer hardware developer resume templates
Build a professional computer hardware developer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your computer hardware developer resume.
Apply for computer hardware developer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a computer hardware developer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
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Average computer hardware developer salary
The average computer hardware developer salary in the United States is $99,546 per year or $48 per hour. Computer hardware developer salaries range between $74,000 and $133,000 per year.
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Updated January 8, 2025
