A Computer Hardware Engineer is a person who test, diagnose and also install various computer hardware including microchips, keyboards, circuit boards, modems and also routers. He should have a Bachelor of degree in Computer Engineering or else he can take a Masters Degree or Doctorate in Engineering depending on the area he is planning to practice.

A Computer Software Engineer is a professional who involves in the design and creation of new software. He should have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science Engineering where he gets more exposure to programming or else he can take a Masters Degree or Doctorate in Engineering on various specializations related to programming.

Computer Hardware Engineer and Opportunities

Responsibilities of a Computer Hardware Engineer include the following.

• Analyze data regarding type of computers and peripheral equipments
• Analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware.
• Build, test and modify product prototypes
• Evaluate factors regarding hardware configuration.
• Monitor functioning of equipments
• Specify power supply requirements
• Store, retrieve, and manipulate data
• Test and verify hardware and support peripherals
• Prepare documentation
• Assemble and modify computer peripherals
• Provide training and technical support to designers
• Select hardware and materials that suits the actual need
• Update knowledge and skills regarding computer hardware

There are a lot of job opportunities for a Computer Hardware Engineer in both Public and Private Sector Firms. They have various job profiles depending on the areas of specialization. They can undergo various certification courses which add color to their future scope. As a part of expansion in the IT industry there is a great demand for Computer Hardware Engineers in India. They have a good career abroad as well.

Software Engineer and Opportunities

The responsibilities of a Computer Software Engineer include the following.

• Meeting with the clients on determining what type of software they need.
• Writing code or programs using various programming languages for implementation of software
• Testing and validating the software
• Trouble shooting code that is showing errors
• Working directly with the clients on explaining the software

There are a lot of job opportunities available for a Computer Software Engineer in the IT industry. A lot of MNCs have set up their operations in the country and they need a lot of Computer Software Engineers for their day to day operations. They have a great scope abroad as well. They can go for various short term and long term certification courses which can contribute to their career scope.

Key difference between Computer Hardware Engineer and Software Engineer

A Computer Hardware Engineer works with the computer hardware including various peripherals whereas a Computer Software Engineer deals with the design and implementation of new software. Even though they might work in the same domain, the salary packages may vary. The job opportunities for a Computer Software Engineer are some what more as compared to a Computer Hardware Engineer.