man working on a computer in office space

What does a hardware engineer do?

Hardware engineers play a crucial role in designing, developing and testing hardware components for various applications in an organisation. Depending on the utility of the hardware and client requirements, they can make circuit boards, memory devices, processors, routers and PCBs for industrial as well as commercial usage.

The role of hardware engineer also includes creating hardware designs, conducting tests, troubleshooting queries, and collaborating with other teams in the firm to ensure successful development and integration of hardware products.

As a vital part of the firm, hardware engineers implement and improve existing hardware solutions to meet organisational requirements and customer demands. With their technical skills and collaborative approach, hardware engineers contribute to the growth of your organisation.

In India, hardware engineers are also called ‘hardware design engineers’, ‘computer hardware engineers’, or simply, ‘computer engineers’. They work in various industries, such as defence, aerospace, consumer electronics and telecommunications.

Job Description: Template

We’re seeking an experienced hardware engineer to join our team at [company name].

You’ll deliver exceptional and innovative computer schematics for building new hardware products. As a key player in ensuring the quality of our hardware products, you’ll also oversee ongoing hardware projects and suggest improvements.

If you have a passion for hardware development, excellent analytical skills, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, you’ll be a perfect fit for the team.

We offer competitive pay, health and travel benefits, and learning and internal growth opportunities. We are open to hybrid work settings and welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

Objectives of this role

  • Design and develop hardware products, including circuit boards, components, and systems, while adhering to industry standards and best practices.
  • Generate and maintain hardware design, testing, and quality control documentation.
  • Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and product validation activities to ensure compliance with regulations.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, development and customer support, to provide feedback and input on product design, performance optimisation, and manufacturability.

Your tasks

  • Execute comprehensive test plans, test cases, and test scripts to validate the performance, functionality, and durability of hardware products.
  • Conduct thorough testing and validation of hardware products to ensure compliance with specifications, requirements and quality standards.
  • Perform root cause analysis and troubleshooting of hardware defects and implement preventive measures for malfunctions to minimise future occurrences.
  • Stay up to date with the latest advancements in hardware testing methodologies and apply them to improve the overall quality of our products.

Required skills and qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of demonstrable experience as a computer hardware engineer.
  • Strong knowledge of hardware design principles, testing tools, equipment, and techniques (mainly PCB designing).
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with an eye for detail and precision.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. 

Preferred skills and qualifications

  • Proficiency in programming languages, like C/C++ and/or Verilog/VHDL.
  • Familiar with industry regulations in India, like ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and RoHS.
  • Knowledge of hardware regulatory requirements, such as FCC and CE.
  • Strong communication, teamwork, and project management skills.