Overview
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) research, plan, design, develop, modify, evaluate and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware and related equipment, and information and communication system networks including mainframe systems, local and wide area networks, fibre-optic networks, wireless communication networks, intranets, the Internet and other data communications systems. They are employed by computer and telecommunication hardware manufacturers, by engineering, manufacturing and telecommunications firms, in information technology consulting firms, by governmental, educational and research institutions and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Computer and telecommunications hardware engineers
Analyze user requirements, and design and develop system architecture and specifications
Research, design, develop and integrate computer and telecommunications hardware such as microprocessors, integrated circuit boards and semiconductor lasers
Develop and conduct 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 optimize 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.
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.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$60,170
$104,280
$149,725
Job openings
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Strong job outlook
British Columbia
745expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment 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 or territorial association of professional engineers is required to approve engineering drawings and reports and to practise as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
Additional information
Supervisory and senior positions in this unit group require experience.
Engineers often work in a multidisciplinary environment and acquire knowledge and skills through work experience that may allow them to practise in associated areas of science, engineering, sales, marketing or management.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) in B.C.
- Engineers and Geoscientists BC Registration - Computer Engineers
Engineers and Geoscientists BC Registration - Computer Engineers
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as a computer engineer in B.C., you must register with Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. Eligibility is achieved through graduation from an accredited program, 4 years of work experience as an Engineer-In-Training, and successful completion of the National Professional Practice Examination.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.