computer-hardware-engineer/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — computer hardware engineer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 17-2061.00 (Computer Hardware Engineers).

Task statements

• [Core] Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology.
• [Core] Provide technical support to designers, marketing and sales departments, suppliers, engineers and other team members throughout the product development and implementation process.
• [Core] Test and verify hardware and support peripherals to ensure that they meet specifications and requirements, by recording and analyzing test data.
• [Core] Monitor functioning of equipment and make necessary modifications to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications.
• [Core] Build, test, and modify product prototypes, using working models or theoretical models constructed with computer simulation.
• [Core] Analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware.
• [Core] Direct technicians, engineering designers or other technical support personnel as needed.
• [Core] Confer with engineering staff and consult specifications to evaluate interface between hardware and software and operational and performance requirements of overall system.
• [Core] Select hardware and material, assuring compliance with specifications and product requirements.
• [Core] Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.
• [Core] Write detailed functional specifications that document the hardware development process and support hardware introduction.
• [Core] Specify power supply requirements and configuration, drawing on system performance expectations and design specifications.
• [Core] Provide training and support to system designers and users.
• [Core] Evaluate factors such as reporting formats required, cost constraints, and need for security restrictions to determine hardware configuration.
• [Core] Design and develop computer hardware and support peripherals, including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and printers and disk drives.
• [Supplemental] Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan layout, including type of computers and peripheral equipment modifications.
• [Supplemental] Assemble and modify existing pieces of equipment to meet special needs.
• [Supplemental] Recommend purchase of equipment to control dust, temperature, and humidity in area of system installation.

Detailed work activities

• Advise customers on the use of products or services.
• Analyze design requirements for computer or electronics systems.
• Assemble equipment or components.
• Conduct validation tests of equipment or processes.
• Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans.
• Create physical models or prototypes.
• Design electronic or computer equipment or instrumentation.
• Determine operational criteria or specifications.
• Monitor processes for compliance with standards.
• Prepare procedural documents.
• Provide technical guidance to other personnel.
• Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance.
• Select project materials.
• Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
• Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.
• Train personnel on proper operational procedures.
• Update technical knowledge.