Lucrative Computer Engineering Jobs You Must Chase!

Interested in computer engineering jobs? Or, are you questioning: “Is computer engineering a good major?” We have all the answers for you within this article.
We’ll share what computer engineering work entails, as well as share information about majoring in computer engineering.

Let’s dive right in so that you can decide if this is the right career path for you.

What is a Computer Engineering Major?

Before enrolling in your first computer engineering course, you are probably wondering what you can expect to learn and whether or not it’s a good major to pursue. Rightfully so!

Computer engineering majors combine engineering, mathematics, and computer science to design solutions for digital systems. Given that computer science is such a broad field, computer engineering majors will learn about hardware and software to understand how the two work together.

Computer engineering majors can then decide to specialize in more specific areas once they have a firm grasp of what the degree entails. For example, computer engineers may want to explore programming languages, cyber security, or artificial intelligence more deeply.

Within a computer engineering degree, you can expect to take courses that cover:

• Computer systems
• Physics
• Computer architecture
• Design of operating systems
• Data structures and algorithms

Computer Engineering Jobs

With a degree in computer engineering, there are many different positions that become available to you. Since you’ll possess both hard and soft skills related to the world of computer science, you will be able to apply for jobs like the following:

Computer programmer

Computer programmers create the code that powers operating systems and software applications. They receive the computer program design from a software developer and then transform that design into instructions for the computer to follow. Basically, they bring software developers’ work to life. A computer programmer’s job doesn’t stop there. They then will review the program while it’s in use and ensure that everything is running optimally. If need be, they may make edits to the code to optimize its functioning.

On average, computer programmers earn $89,190 per year. 

Software engineer

Software engineers, or software developers design and develop software applications for computers. Software engineers typically require at least a bachelor’s degree to get started in the field, but some employers may prefer their employees to have a master’s degree too. On average, software engineers earn $95,642 a year. The career growth is extremely high for this field too as it is expected to grow at 21% between 2018 and 2028.

Computer engineer

Naturally, when you study computer engineering, you’ll be equipped to become a computer engineer! But, what exactly do computer engineers do? They manage and design computer hardware and software. As mentioned, they often work closely with software engineers to do so. They update hardware, develop software systems, and also design new equipment. Computer engineers earn an average annual salary of $81,244. 

Forensic computer analyst

Forensic computer analysts are like detectives of the cyber world. They investigate cyber crimes like security breaches to protect data and sensitive information. Many different types of employers hire forensic computer analysts like law enforcement, government, law firms, and corporations, to name a few. In this role, you can expect to earn an average of $100,063. 

IT consultant

IT (internet technology) consultants help organizations to evaluate and assess their current IT operations. They find ways to make it better so that organizations can reach their business goals. To do so, they begin by understanding their client’s needs and then reviewing their infrastructure. Once they have a good feel for improvements, they implement new solutions. IT consultants earn an average of $81,015.

Game developer

Have a knack or interest for gaming? You could study computer engineering and become a game developer. This way, you can design and develop the games you like to play! Game developers create video game software for both computers and gaming consoles. They translate the game’s design and play into coding so it can function. On average, they can expect to earn $101,644, so what we’re saying is that you can make a game, make some good money, and play it, too.
Source: Unsplash

What Makes Computer Engineering Jobs Attractive?

1. Multiple Job Opportunities

Since virtually every industry and business sector relies on computers and technology, the job opportunities for computer engineers are very broad and flexible. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job outlook for this field is expected to grow by 17% between 2014-2024.

2. High Job Satisfaction

Since computer engineers face interesting challenges and are always learning new skills, they generally have reported feeling very satisfied in their jobs. In fact, in one study, 87% of survey respondents said that they felt happy with their work.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the reasons why:

• Challenges that accompany the design of new products are at the top of the list of why computer engineers love what they do.
• Researching design solutions is another reason they are happy.
• And, of course, money talks. Computer engineers often feel satisfied with the compensation for their work.

3. Meaningful Work

For many people, a huge part of job satisfaction comes from knowing that your work is valuable and making a positive difference in the world. Since people spend so much time at work and it’s a huge part of everyday life, you want to know that your time is not going to waste. The good news is that with computer engineering, you can rest assured that your work is making a difference in the world.
Source: Unsplash

4. Different Work on Different Days

Many people who work in jobs outside of computer engineering often complain that it feels as if they are doing the same thing, just on a different day. But with a career in computer engineering, you can know that every day, or almost every day, will present something new. Because the field is always advancing, you will be able to add to your knowledge base, challenge yourself, and provide new ideas for new problems on a regular basis. Computer engineers are problem-solvers, and for that reason, with each new task, there are infinite possibilities to try new solutions.

5. Lucrative Pay Package

Per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer engineering jobs offer great financial stability. Computer Engineering jobs are expected to grow 2% by 2029. This factor certainly adds to the overall attractiveness of computer engineering jobs.

Closing Thoughts

As the world continues to rely on computers for business and personal use, computer engineering jobs are offered across industries and employers. There are a variety of career paths to choose from with a degree in computer engineering (and also computer science). Plus, most of these positions will provide a lucrative salary because they depend on highly-skilled workers to fill these roles.
For anyone who enjoys working with computer hardware and software, likes to solve problems, and wants to take responsibility for helping businesses perform more optimally, computer engineering jobs may be the perfect career choice to pursue.