Computer Engineer

Computer engineers specify, design, develop and test computer hardware and support peripherals including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays and peripherals such as printers and disc drives. In some cases, they develop special purpose embedded products that use computer technology as part of a larger project. For example, embedded computers are used in applications ranging from washing machine controls to automobile engines. This often requires low-level or high-level software design.

Computer engineers are responsible for:

• analyzing product and client requirements
• developing design specifications including performance expectations, suitable operating system environments and materials to be used
• assembling, adapting, interfacing and testing existing pieces of equipment for a specialized function
• simulating and building prototypes (working models) of a product including the development of logic and digital circuit designs
• testing and modifying the prototype prior to large-scale manufacturing.

They also may be responsible for:

• analyzing user needs and recommending appropriate hardware
• providing a cost analysis and obtaining quotes from suppliers
• developing system specifications
• analyzing operating problems and making modifications
• determining system performance standards
• writing product documentation
• selling computer technology
• modifying existing hardware and software to meet specialized needs
• preparing proposals for software and hardware systems.

Computer engineers must constantly update their knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology. They often work as members of design teams that may include a project engineer, senior engineers, software engineers, technologists, technicians and marketing and manufacturing specialists.

Computer engineers spend most of their time in an office or laboratory environment working with computers, testing equipment and documenting systems. They may work considerable overtime and experience a great deal of pressure to meet deadlines.

Climbing, bending and lifting up to 20 kilograms may be required.

Computer engineers need the following characteristics:

• excellent oral and written communication skills
• inquiring and inventive minds
• a capacity for details
• patience and a systematic approach to trouble shooting
• good decision making and problem solving skills
• an aptitude for mathematics and science
• the ability to teach others
• good time management skills.

They should enjoy being innovative, working both with others and on their own, and doing work that requires precision.

Computer engineers are employed in almost any industry in which computers are used. In particular, they are employed by companies involved in:

• telecommunications and computer networks
• computer manufacturing
• consulting
• hardware research and development
• consumer electronics
• industrial instrumentation and process control.

Working for smaller companies requires a broader range of skills; duties with larger companies may be more specialized. Computer engineers also are employed by governments and hospitals.

With experience, computer engineers may establish their own businesses, move into marketing or other areas of engineering, or advance to supervisory and management positions. Training or experience in business administration is an asset.

In Alberta, 79% of people employed as computer engineers work in the following industries:

• Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (PDF)
• Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF)
• Wholesale Trade (PDF)
• Manufacturing (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years

Association of Profressional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) website: www.apega.ca

Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) website: www.cips.ca

Technology Alberta website: www.albertaict.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.