How to Become a Hardware Developer

- Salary, Qualification, Skills, Role and Responsibilities

#Hardware Engineer

Who is a Hardware Developer?

We're not in hardware for hardware's sake. We're in hardware to be able to express all our platform and productivity software in a way that's unique ~ Satya Nadella

A hardware developer is a professional who has studied computer science and has a great intellect for designing the parts of computer hardware programs and upgrading it. A hardware developer is a computer hardware engineer. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers can do wonders for the computer and IT industry. He or she can develop the world’s fastest central processing unit (CPU) for PCs. A hardware developer can develop portable storage devices to quickly transfer large amounts of data from one device to another. Computer hardware and networking jobs include developing a color printer and other related devices.

Hardware Developer in a Nutshell

Careers in hardware and networking is crucial for technological innovations in the computer industry. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers designs, develops, tests, and analyzes the functioning of hardware equipment such as circuit boards, motherboards, central processing units (CPUs), printers, monitors, keyboards. A hardware developer works full time in an office environment or research laboratories. He or she may require travel to worksites or plants. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers often requires to work with other engineers, nontechnical members and other departments such as finance, sales, marketing, and product development. Systems and hardware engineering career is rapidly growing these days. Students opt for jobs with a computer engineering degree.

Quick Facts for Hardware Developer

Industry
Technology
Average Salary in India
₹53000
Suitable for
Male, Female

Individuals can take up a career as hardware developers, it is not gender-specific. Men, women, and others can choose a career as hardware developers. It is suitable for everyone regardless of their gender. The candidates having an interest and curiosity to develop hardware equipment or know about its functionality should opt for this career.
Any special needs
Yes

Everyone, including those with physical disabilities, is appropriate for individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers. The career as hardware developers is well suited to everyone, even those with special needs. It is suitable for candidates with special needs. Mostly jobs assigned in this career are desk jobs. Candidates with special needs can perform better in desk jobs as it requires less physical movement. Candidates must possess expertise in computer skills and knowledge of CADD (computer-aided-design-draft) software.

Table of Contents for Hardware Developer

What is the role of Hardware Developer?

Types of a Hardware Developer

What is the workplace/work environment of Hardware Developer like?

How to become a Hardware Developer?

What are the skills and qualities required to become a/an Hardware Developer?

Which certifications and internships can be helpful in becoming Hardware Developer?

Career path progression for Hardware Developer

Hardware Developer Jobs and Salaries

What is the job outlook for Hardware Developer?

Frequently Asked Questions for Hardware Developer

What is the role of Hardware Developer?

The question that comes up to our mind is what does a hardware developer do? Here in this article we will discuss about the careers in hardware and networking and also how to become a hardware developer. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers are responsible for developing new computer products. He or she understands the requirements and specifications of the product. Computer hardware and networking jobs include keeping all the measures in mind while designing such as overall effectiveness, cost, reliability, and safety. A hardware developer ensures economical solutions to technical problems. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers researches, designs, develops, tests, and oversees the manufacturing and installation of hardware products. The hardware consists of computer chips, motherboard, circuit boards, computer systems, and all the other related equipment such as keyboards, monitors, CPUs (central processing units), modems, and printers. A hardware developer's work responsibilities are quite similar to electronic engineers. An electronic engineer designs and tests computer hardware programs for other electronic components. While a hardware developer does similar work for computer-related equipment. The rapid upgradation in technology and computer advancement is the result of the research, designing, and development efforts of these engineers and developers.

Technical support

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers provide technical support to all the other related departments such as sales, marketing, suppliers, engineers, and designers. He or she works with other team members throughout the product development and implementation process. Computer hardware developers update his or her knowledge with the present advancements in computer technology.

Testing

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers are responsible for testing and verifying hardware and support peripherals. He or she ensures that they meet the specifications. Computer hardware developers record and analyzes the test data. A hardware developer is responsible for monitoring the functioning of equipment and modifying it as per the requirements and specifications. He or she analyzes the information to plan the layout of types of computers and modifications in peripheral devices.

Developing Working Models

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers build, test, modify the product prototypes studying the working models or theoretical models. Computer hardware developers analyze the user needs and recommends the appropriate hardware products. He or she works in collaboration with engineering staff and briefs them about the required specifications to evaluate the interface between software and hardware performance and operations requirements of the system.

Material Selection

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers select the hardware material and ensures it compliances with the specifications and product requirements. He or she analyzes the system by storing, retrieving, and manipulating the data. Computer hardware developers prepare a detailed report of functional specifications for documentation of the computer hardware programs and to support hardware introduction.

Types of a Hardware Developer

Robotics Engineer: A robotics engineer uses CADD (computer-aided-design-draft) software to create blueprints and schematics for robotic systems. A robotics engineer is responsible for developing software processes that dictate the functionality of robotics systems. He or she designs machines and mechanical systems that build the robots.

Mobile App Developer: A mobile app developer writes programmes in a mobile development environment using programming languages such as C, C++, c#, or Java. He or she determines which operating systems such as Google, Android, or Apple iOS, the mobile app will function and designs as per the operating platforms.

Computer Programmer: A computer programmer translates the project specifications from software and systems. He or she engineers those project specifications into a script of logical instructions that computers can interpret into computer hardware programs.

Computer Systems Engineer: A computer systems engineer is interested in updating recent advances in computer technology for himself or herself. The upgrading of the current processes and facilities is part of his or her job obligation. To meet client requirements, a computer system engineer is required to incorporate hardware and software programmes into the computer system.

Computer Systems Analyst: A computer system analyst oversees both business and technology. A computer systems analyst analyzes the current computer systems and procedures. These types of computer hardware developers recommend the strategic changes to increase productivity and reduce costs resulting in the accomplishment of goals.

Computer Hardware Engineer: Computer hardware engineers assess consumer specifications and make appropriate hardware. Computer hardware engineer carries out the technical exploitation and investigation of media content of the highest priority. Computer Hardware Engineer inspects and reviews technical accuracy, requirements, and design compliance.

Software Developer: The brilliant minds behind computer programmes are software developers. For a software application, software developers are in charge of the whole development process. In the career as a software developer, they may begin by asking how the customer plans to use the software. They must identify the core functionality that users need from software programs.

Software Engineer: A software engineer has a detailed knowledge of programming languages, application creation, and the operation of computer systems. For designing software, he or she applies the principles of engineering. These types of computer hardware developers apply engineering concepts to every level of the development process.

What is the workplace/work environment of Hardware Developer like?

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers work in office buildings, laboratories or industrial plants. Others may spend time at production sites, where they monitor or direct operations or solve onsite problems. Some engineers travel extensively to plants or worksites, both here and abroad. Many engineers work a standard 40-hour week. At times, deadlines or design standards may bring extra pressure to a job, requiring engineers to work longer hours.

Does Hardware Developer require travelling?

Likely

Careers in systems and hardware engineering may occasionally require traveling for attending meetings and conferences. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers are required to travel extensively to worksites, and plants here and abroad.

Employment Shifts

Full Time

Careers in hardware and networking do not generate a part-time, hourly basis, on-call, or work from home type employment opportunities. The systems and hardware engineering career demands a firm commitment to the work. The career generates full-time employment opportunities.

Employment Nature

Permanent

Careers in hardware and networking provide employment opportunities rather than employment on contractual terms.

Work Place

Office

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers generally work in offices

Presence in Geographical Area

Urban

There are no opportunities in rural areas due to the negligence of industrial development and lack of infrastructure. Semi-urban and urban areas provide alluring employment opportunities. Individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer can easily find good employment and numerous job opportunities in Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and New Delhi. These cities are the IT hubs that is why the demand of IT professionals is higher in these cities.

Time Pressure

Likely

Individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer are prone to face time pressure. Their work is quite uncertain in nature and might require them to work under unusual circumstances and odd working hours. Hardware developers usually work under a lot of time pressure.

Overtime Details

Typically, individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer are required to work for 9 hours per day. But these working hours are generally expanded because of unattainable results and work pressure. Hence, hardware developers are required to work for long hours facing stressful situations.

Weekly Hours of Work

Min 45 Hours

Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers work in office buildings, laboratories, or plants. He or she works 8-9 hours a day and 45 hours a week. Sometimes work hours may stretch due to deadlines or work pressure.

How to become a Hardware Developer?

Steps to become a Hardware Developer

This article will guide you on how to become a hardware developer in India. If you are passionate about creating and designing electronic components and computer systems, this career path offers exciting opportunities. We will explore the essential steps and skills required to embark on a successful journey as a hardware developer within India's thriving technology industry.

Identify the Skills
Enrol in Formal Education
Pursue Specialisation/Certification Courses
Build a Portfolio
Look for Internship/Job Opportunities
Begin a Career

01 Step

Identify the Skills

These skills are crucial for designing and developing electronic components and systems effectively. Here are the key hardware developer skills:

Hard Skills:

Digital and Analog Circuit Design
Microcontroller Programming
PCB Design and Layout
FPGA and ASIC Design
Knowledge of Electronics and Components
Embedded Systems Development
Computer Architecture
Signal Processing
Hardware Testing and Debugging
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Software Proficiency

Soft Skills:

Problem-Solving Abilities
Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Team Collaboration
Communication Skills
Adaptability to Technology Trends
Project Management
Time Management
Creativity and Innovation
Continuous Learning Attitude

02 Step

Enrol in Formal Education

To pursue a career as a hardware developer, you typically start by enrolling in formal education programs. The most common qualification for entry is a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. In India, universities like IITs, NITs, and other reputed institutions offer these programs.

To further enhance your career prospects, consider pursuing a Master's degree, which can provide advanced knowledge and specialization options. Entrance exams like JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) and GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) are often required for admission into these prestigious institutions, ensuring eligibility and competency in the field.

Popular Entrance Examinations

JEE Main	JEE Advanced
BITS Pilani	VITEEE

Bachelor's Degree

B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Computer Science	B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Electrical Engineering
B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) Computer Engineering	B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) Electrical Engineering
B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Computer Science	B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Computer Engineering

Master’s Degree

M.Tech. (Master of Technology) Computer Science	M.Tech (Master of Technology) Electrical Engineering
M.E. (Master of Engineering) Computer Engineering	M.E. (Master of Engineering) Electrical Engineering
M.Sc. (Master of Science) Computer Science	M.Sc. (Master of Science) Computer Engineering
M.Tech. (Master of Technology)	-

03 Step

Pursue Specialisation/Certification Courses

To enhance your qualifications and eligibility as a hardware developer, consider pursuing specialization or certification courses in the field. These courses offer valuable insights into the latest hardware technologies, tools, and techniques. Certification programs from reputable organizations and institutions can validate your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the industry. Specialized courses can cover topics such as FPGA design, embedded systems, and PCB layout, providing you with the specific skills and knowledge needed to excel in the hardware development profession.

04 Step

Build a Portfolio

Building a portfolio is essential for aspiring hardware developers to showcase their skills and expertise. A well-constructed portfolio helps potential employers and clients understand your capabilities and experience in hardware development roles and responsibilities. Include projects that highlight your proficiency in circuit design, PCB layout, firmware development, and hardware testing. Additionally, document your problem-solving abilities, innovative solutions, and successful project outcomes. A strong portfolio not only validates your skills but also sets you apart in the competitive field of hardware development.

05 Step

Look for Internship/Job Opportunities

To kickstart your journey as a hardware developer, it's crucial to actively seek internship or job opportunities in the field. Look for positions that align with hardware developer roles and responsibilities, such as PCB design, circuitry, or embedded systems development. These opportunities will provide valuable hands-on experience, allowing you to apply your skills, collaborate with professionals, and gain a deeper understanding of the hardware development process. Building a strong foundation through internships or entry-level positions is a vital step toward establishing yourself as a proficient hardware developer.

06 Step

Begin a Career

The final step to becoming a hardware developer in India is to embark on your career journey. Look for job openings and career opportunities for hardware developers that match your skills and interests. In this role, you will take on hardware developer roles and responsibilities, including designing, testing, and maintaining electronic components and systems. As you gain experience and expertise, you'll contribute to technological advancements and innovation while enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career in the field of hardware development.

What are the skills and qualities required to become a/an Hardware Developer?

Communication skills
Analytical skills
Creativity
Problem Solving Ability
Critical thinking

When it comes to how to become a hardware developer, the first thing that they should know about are the skills required to become a hardware developer. Some of the essential skills we have mentioned below.

Analytical Skills: Hardware developers analyse the equipment and modifies it as per the requirement of the specifications. Computer hardware developer test the equipment to ensure it is functioning well. Individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer resolve the issues arising in production of hardware tools.

Creativity: Hardware developers require creative skills to design the new equipment and give it a new updated look and style of information technology device. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers design the hardware equipment using CADD (computer-aided-design-draft) software.

Critical Thinking: Hardware developers use logic and reasoning ability to determine goals, examine assumptions, identify strengths and weaknesses of the alternative solutions. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers require to think out of the box to create technological innovations for the IT industry.

Problem-Solving Skills: Hardware developers identify the problem in the hardware equipment, and resolve it in the best possible way. Computer hardware developers ensure customer satisfaction. Individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer analyze the issues raised by customers or other team members and resolves it.

Communication Skills: Hardware developers require effective communication skills. They work with other engineers and non-technical team members. Computer hardware developer communicate with them in written verbally. Individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer make a report on the basis of analysis and document the hardware developing process.

Popular Online Engineering Courses and Certifications

Also read - Career as software developer

Which certifications and internships can be helpful in becoming Hardware Developer?

Hardware Description Languages for FPGA Design	Certified Basic Network Support Professional
Certified Electronics Design Associate	Certified Grid Computing Professional
Certified Linux Administrator	Certified Raspberry Pi Professional

Internship Availability

Yes

After successful completion of the academic course, individuals who opt for a career as a hardware developer are required to opt for internships in tech companies. This increases the chances of being hired at a permanent position and gives direct industrial exposure. One can learn a lot through internships than the classrooms. The candidates prepare themselves for other challenging roles through internships. An intern is required to assist in mechanical and electrical design. He or she is responsible for fixture design through CAD software. Jobs for computer engineer is emerging day by day. Computer hardware engineer jobs include testing electrical equipment and hardware products and analyze the results. An intern is involved in the designing of hardware equipment with compliance with the documented specifications. Students opt for jobs with a computer engineering degree. He or she is responsible for the documentation of the hardware development process. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers are responsible for project coordination, financial tracking, and support assignments of special projects. Jobs in hardware and networking is emerging day by day.

Career Path Progression for Hardware Developer

Network and Computer Systems Administrator: A network and computer systems administrator plays a crucial role in every organization. He or she holds the accountability of the day-to-day operations of the networks.

Hardware Engineer: Hardware engineers are responsible for designing, testing, and implementing computer hardware components such as central processing units (CPUs), memory modules, and input/output (I/O) devices. They collaborate with other engineering teams to ensure compatibility and performance.

Hardware Developer Jobs and Salaries

Network system administrator

Monthly Salaries

Average Salary 50000

Job Description

Network system administrator develops, operates and maintains technical networks. He or she works within organisations and government agencies to manage local area networks, large area networks, network segments, and other data transmission systems as necessary.

Salary Description

The more expertise a network system administrator gains in the field, the better salary and incentive he or she will be able to make in the business. Network system administrator earns more at the early stage of jobs which is better than most other occupations which are roughly Rs. three lakhs per year but eventually earn more than ten lakhs at senior management level.

Read Full Details

Hardware Engineer

Monthly Salaries

Average Salary 56000

Job Description

A Hardware Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various hardware components and systems, such as computer hardware, electronic devices, and embedded systems.

Salary Description

The salary of a Hardware Engineer can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and the specific responsibilities of the role.

Read Full Details

What is the job outlook for Hardware Developer?

Careers in hardware and networking is more focused on technological innovation on software than on hardware. The scholars of computer science aspire to become software engineer than hardware developers or engineers. Computer hardware engineer jobs in manufacturing industries is declining. But there is an increase in employment opportunities at computer consulting and hardware start-up companies. Nowadays the manufacturers outsource the hardware design from hardware start-up firms. Jobs for a computer engineer is emerging day by day. The demand for hardware developers or hardware engineers is rising in the automobile and healthcare industries. Individuals who opt for a career as hardware developers are required to embed computer chips in new generation automobiles, household appliances, medical equipment, and other devices. There is strong competition in the computer hardware and networking jobs market. Employers prefer to hire candidates possessing a master’s degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering. The candidates who hold a certification or more from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) stand out from all the other qualified candidates. Jobs in hardware and networking is emerging day by day.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Hardware Developer

Que. What is the average salary of a hardware developer in India?

Ans.

The average salary of a hardware developer is Rs. 65,000 per month.

Que. What is the average fee of a B.Tech in Computer Science?

Ans.

The average fee of B.Tech in computer science range from Rs 2 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh of the overall course of 4 years.

Que. I am pursuing graduation in mechanical engineering. Am I eligible for opting for a career as a hardware developer?

Ans.

Yes, mechanical engineering is somehow related to hardware development. After graduation you can opt for a short term certificate course in PC hardware and networking. It will build strong grounds for the hardware developer career with respect to knowledge of information technology and skills. After that you can opt for internships in high-tech manufacturing firms.

Que. What are the other bachelor degree programmes except B.Tech in computer science for hardware development?

Ans.

One could pursue either of the following bachelor’s degree- B.Sc. (Bachelor of Science) Computer Science, B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Computer Engineering, B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) Computer Engineering, B.Tech. (Bachelor of Engineering) Electrical Engineering and B.E. (Bachelor of Engineering) Electrical Engineering.

Que. Is there any short term course for hardware development that one could opt after graduation in sociology?

Ans.

There are numerous short term courses offered by various institutions and colleges. You can enroll yourself in the National Institute of Electronics and Network Technology which offers numerous short-term diploma and certificate courses in hardware and networking. Some of the popular courses are Certificate course in PC Hardware & Networking, Certificate Course in PC Assembly and Maintenance, Certificate Course in Repair & Maintenance of Electronic Products, Certificate Course in Mobile Repair and Maintenance and Certificate Course in Embedded System Design using PIC Microcontroller.

Que. What does a hardware developer do?

Ans.

A hardware developer designs, develops, and maintains physical components of electronic devices and computer systems. They create everything from microprocessors to circuit boards, ensuring these components work efficiently and reliably.

Que. Is hardware developer a good career?

Ans.

Yes, hardware development can be a rewarding career. It offers opportunities for innovation, competitive salaries, and a strong demand in industries like technology, electronics, and aerospace. However, success often depends on one's skills, dedication, and ability to stay updated with evolving technologies.