We interviewed Jeremy, an experienced Hardware Engineer from Auckland New Zealand, on how he got started and any advice he has to offer.

I got started as a hardware engineer by completing a degree in electrical engineering and gaining practical experience through internships and entry-level positions. My day-to-day work as a hardware engineer involves designing and developing hardware systems and components for a variety of applications. This can involve tasks such as creating circuit diagrams, building and testing prototypes, and collaborating with other teams to ensure that the final product meets the required specifications. Additionally, I also spend time staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and developments in the field, and attending meetings and workshops to share knowledge and learn from others. Overall, my day-to-day work as a hardware engineer is varied and dynamic, and no two days are exactly the same.

The most challenging part of my job as a hardware engineer is the fast-paced and constantly-changing nature of the field. The technology industry is highly dynamic, and hardware engineers need to be able to adapt quickly to new technologies and developments in order to stay competitive and relevant. This can require a lot of continuous learning and self-improvement, and can be challenging for individuals who are not comfortable with change and uncertainty. Additionally, the demands of the job can also be challenging, as hardware engineers often work on tight deadlines and are expected to deliver high-quality products that meet complex and demanding specifications. Overall, while being a hardware engineer can be rewarding and exciting, it can also be demanding and require a high level of skill and dedication.

There is some customer service in my job as a hardware engineer, although it is not a primary focus of my work. As a hardware engineer, I primarily work with other members of the engineering team and with internal stakeholders, such as project managers and product designers. However, I may also need to communicate with external customers or clients in order to gather information or to provide updates on the progress of a project. In these cases, I need to be able to provide clear and concise information, and to answer any questions or concerns that the customer may have. Overall, while customer service is not a central part of my job as a hardware engineer, it is still an important skill that I need to possess in order to be effective in my work.

As a hardware engineer, I have worked on a wide variety of hardware devices and systems. Some of the most common types of devices that I work on include computers and computer peripherals, such as printers, scanners, and other input/output devices. I also work on consumer electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices, as well as on industrial and medical equipment

Yes, being a hardware engineer requires a high level of knowledge and expertise. In order to be effective in this role, I need to have a strong foundation in electrical engineering principles and practices, as well as a deep understanding of the technologies and materials that are used in the design and development of hardware systems and components. Additionally, I also need to be familiar with industry standards, regulations, and best practices, and to stay up-to-date with the latest developments and innovations in the field. Overall, being a hardware engineer requires a significant amount of knowledge and expertise, and individuals who are interested in this career should be prepared to invest the time and effort necessary to gain the skills and knowledge required to be successful in this field.

My advice for young people who are interested in a career as a hardware engineer is to pursue a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) subjects, and to gain practical experience through internships and entry-level positions. A degree in electrical engineering or a related field is a valuable asset for those who want to become hardware engineers, and can provide the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this field. Additionally, internships and entry-level positions can provide valuable hands-on experience and can help individuals to develop the technical, problem-solving, and communication skills that are essential for success as a hardware engineer. Overall, my advice for young people is to invest in their education and training, and to seek out opportunities to gain practical experience in order to build the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a hardware engineer.

Hope this gives you some direction in your own career as well!