Computer Engineers (except Software Engineers and Designers)

Nature of work

Computer engineers design, implement, evaluate, modify, maintain, and test computer systems and related equipment. They work for computer and telecommunication hardware manufacturers, engineering, manufacturing and telecommunications firms, information technology consulting firms, governmental, educational and research institutions, and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors. Computer engineers may specialize in several areas including analog and digital signal processing, fibre optics, integrated circuits, lasers, microprocessors, microwaves and radio astronomy.

Job duties

Computer and telecommunications hardware engineers:

• Analyze user's requirements, and design and develop system architecture and specifications.
• Research, design, develop and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware like microprocessors, integrated circuit boards and semiconductor lasers.
• Complete design verification simulations and prototype bench tests of components.
• Supervise, inspect, and provide design support during the manufacturing, installation and implementation of computer and telecommunications hardware.
• Establish and maintain relationships with suppliers and clients.
• May lead and coordinate teams of engineers, technologists, technicians and drafters in the design and development of computer and telecommunications hardware.

Network system and data communication engineers:

• Research, design and develop information and communication system network architecture.
• Research, evaluate and integrate network system and data communication hardware and software.
• Assess, document, and enhance the capacity and performance of information and communication system networks.
• May lead and coordinate teams of design professionals in the development and integration of information and communication system architecture, hardware, and software.

Sample job titles

• computer engineer
• computer hardware engineer
• computer systems engineer
• data communications specialist
• fibre-optic network designer
• network specialist - computer systems
• network systems engineer
• systems designer - hardware
• telecommunications engineer
• wireless communications network engineer

Skills

You should enjoy problem-solving, be able to think analytically and logically, and be interested in technology and the development of computer systems and equipment. Strong math skills and effective communication skills are both very important. Creativity would also be helpful. Computer engineers may specialize in a number of areas including analog and digital signal processing, fibre optics, integrated circuits, lasers, microprocessors, microwaves and radio astronomy.

Job requirements

• Computer engineers require a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, electrical or electronics engineering, engineering physics or computer science.
• A master's or doctoral degree in a related engineering discipline may be required.
• Licensing by a provincial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practice as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
• Engineers are eligible for registration following graduation from an accredited educational program, three or four years of supervised work experience in engineering and passing a professional practice examination.

Other considerations

Rapid changes in computer technology mean that people in this field should be prepared to keep abreast of new developments in computer hardware, software, and networking technologies. Supervisory and senior positions in this group require experience. Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and gain knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practice in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing or management.

Regulations

Contacts

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