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Research, design, develop, and test computer hardware including processors, circuit boards, and memory devices. Work for semiconductor companies, tech manufacturers, and defense contractors.
$90,000
Lower reported wage
$155,020
Median
$223,820
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →There is no single hardware-engineer certificate; role-specific employer requirements vary. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageAsk whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary.
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Direct SOC match. Median $155,020; 9.1% growth. Demand driven by AI accelerator, GPU and chip design.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
A direct technical route; seek hands-on electronics and system-testing projects. [1]
Design, test, and improve computer systems and components. [1]
Hardware engineers work in labs, offices, manufacturing, and research teams. [1]
Usually full time; prototype and product deadlines may require extra hours. [1]
Tiny faults, system interactions, and repeated testing require patience and precision. [1]
Experience may lead to senior design, architecture, or engineering management. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.