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The differences between computer specialists and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 1-2 years to become both a computer specialist and a computer engineer. Additionally, a computer engineer has an average salary of $96,805, which is higher than the $75,950 average annual salary of a computer specialist.
The top three skills for a computer specialist include data entry, troubleshoot and computer system. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Computer Specialist | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $75,950 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $36.51 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | 10% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 75,054 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 57% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 2 | 2 |
A computer specialist's responsibilities typically revolve around installing and repairing computer hardware and software. They meet with clients to identify their needs, examine and troubleshoot equipment, perform upgrades, and discuss the extent of repairs or replacements to clients. In a company setting, a computer specialist is in charge of overseeing an array of equipment, conducting regular maintenance checks, and performing corrective measures as needed. Furthermore, they must provide technical support, all while implementing the company's policies and regulations.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Computer specialists and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Specialist | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $75,950 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $59,000 And $97,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | Seattle, WA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Apple | Waymo |
| Best paying industry | Professional | Finance |
There are a few differences between a computer specialist and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Specialist | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 57% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | Stanford University | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between computer specialists' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Computer Specialist | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 42 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 70.8% Female, 29.2% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 12.3% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.1% Asian, 11.7% White, 55.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |