The computer hardware engineer profession boasts an exciting and diverse career path with plenty of job opportunities. Many people are curious about the average computer hardware engineer salary range and what factors determine it. This article takes a deep dive into the key factors influencing the salary of computer hardware engineers, from education and experience to location and industry.
Education and Experience
Education and experience have a significant impact on the salary of a computer hardware engineer. Entry-level positions usually require a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field. However, employers may prefer a master’s degree in some cases. The more advanced the degree, the better the starting salary you can expect.
Moreover, the more experience you have, the higher the salary you can command. Junior hardware engineers can expect to earn a lower average salary than senior engineers who have been in the industry for several years. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a computer hardware engineer with less than one year of experience is $72,823. The salary increases exponentially with experience, with an average base salary of $126,411 for those with ten or more years of experience.
Industry and Company Type
The industry you choose to work in and the type of company you work for can impact your salary as well. The technology industry typically pays higher wages than other industries, such as retail or healthcare. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for computer hardware engineers working in the computer systems design and related services industry in 2020 was $99,000.
The size and type of the company you work for can also affect your pay. Large technology companies tend to offer higher salaries and better benefits than smaller companies. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a hardware engineer at Apple is $154,287, compared to $121,825 at Best Buy.
Location
Location plays a significant role in determining the average salary of a computer hardware engineer. Cities with a higher cost of living and demand for hardware engineers typically pay higher salaries. Silicon Valley is one of the highest-paying metro areas, where hardware engineers can command an average base salary of $128,672. In contrast, hardware engineers working in smaller cities or rural areas may earn less than the national average.
Conclusion
The average computer hardware engineer salary can vary significantly based on education and experience, industry and company type, and location. By pursuing advanced degrees, gaining experience, working for large technology companies, and living in high-demand areas, computer hardware engineers can maximize their earning potential. It’s worth noting that most computer hardware engineers find jobs in cities with a high-tech industry presence, indicating that location plays a crucial role in this profession’s success. With this information, aspiring computer hardware engineers can make informed decisions about their career path and salary expectations.
