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If you’ve Googled “computer engineer job description”, you’ve probably seen dozens of articles that all look the same.
Bullet points. Buzzwords. Boredom.
The problem?
Most of them don’t actually teach you how to attract a great computer engineer—they just give you a generic list of tasks and skills that could apply to any tech role from the last 20 years.
And that’s a big mistake.
A top computer engineer isn’t just looking for a paycheck—they want to know the projects they’ll work on, the impact they’ll have, and the team they’ll join. If your job post doesn’t inspire them, the best ones will scroll right past you and join someone else’s mission.
Before we dive in, here’s my recommendation:
If you haven’t already, read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ so you understand why generic posts fail and how to structure one that actually converts top talent.
In this article, we’re going to go beyond bullet points and give you:
- A plain-English explanation of what a computer engineer actually does
- Two ready-to-use templates (one for experienced hires, one for trainable/entry-level talent)
- A bad example—so you know what to avoid
- Tips to make your post stand out
- And a quick-start copy-paste version you can adapt in minutes
By the end, you’ll have a computer engineer job description that not only checks the HR boxes but also attracts, excites, and converts the kind of people you actually want on your team.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing
What a Computer Engineer Actually Does
A computer engineer is more than just “someone who works with computers.” They’re the people who design, build, and maintain the systems that keep your business running—whether that’s the hardware you can touch or the software running silently in the background.
In simple terms: they’re problem-solvers who turn technology into tools that actually work for people.
Depending on your company and projects, a computer engineer might:
- Develop and test computer hardware like processors, circuit boards, and memory devices
- Write and optimize software that interacts with that hardware
- Troubleshoot system issues and design solutions that prevent them from happening again
- Collaborate with other engineers, designers, and project managers to bring new products to life
- Ensure that systems are secure, reliable, and scalable
But here’s the part job descriptions often miss:
A great computer engineer isn’t just technically skilled—they also have strong communication, teamwork, and project management abilities. They can translate complex technical concepts into plain language, work across departments, and adapt quickly when challenges arise.
If you want to hire one, your job post should show them the bigger picture—how their work will make a difference, what kind of projects they’ll contribute to, and the type of environment they’ll be working in.
Two Great Computer Engineer Job Description Templates
✅ Version 1: Job Description For Experienced Computer Engineer
📌 Job Title: Senior Computer Engineer — Embedded & Systems at Northstar Embedded Systems (NES)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days on-site) | Denver, CO
💰 Salary Range: $125,000–$155,000 base + bonus + equity (DOE)
🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager
A quick hello from our VP of Engineering (2 min): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are (Northstar Embedded Systems)
Northstar Embedded Systems (NES) builds rugged, low-power computing modules and software for robotics, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation. Our 160-person team ships edge-computing products used in warehouses, farms, and disaster-response scenarios across North America and EMEA. We obsess over reliability at scale, fast boot times, and making embedded systems feel invisible to the user.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll own end-to-end delivery on modules that ship into real robots—your work will be in the field within months, not years.
- Tight feedback loop: collaborate daily with firmware, hardware, and product to solve thorny performance problems.
- Room to influence architecture, standards, and mentoring for junior engineers.
What You’ll Do
- Design and optimize embedded software for ARM-based compute modules (C/C++/Rust)
- Integrate with drivers, kernels (embedded Linux/RTOS), and hardware interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART)
- Lead performance profiling, benchmarking, and reliability hardening
- Contribute to board bring-up, HW/SW integration, and automated test pipelines
- Review designs, set engineering standards, and mentor teammates
What We’re Looking For
- BS/MS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or similar
- 5+ years in embedded systems or HW/SW co-design
- Strong in C/C++ (Rust a plus), embedded Linux/RTOS, and debugging with logic analyzers/oscilloscopes
- Familiarity with bootloaders, device trees, and BSPs; FPGA or DSP experience is a plus
- Clear communicator who enjoys cross-functional problem solving
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + HSA/FSA
- 401(k) with company match + equity grants
- 20 days PTO + 10 company holidays + flexible sick leave
- Annual $2,500 learning stipend (certs, courses, conferences)
- Top-tier gear budget + on-site lab access
- Relocation support (US) and visa sponsorship available
Our Hiring Process
- Apply via WorkScreen (skills-first)
- Technical evaluation on realistic tasks (no brainteasers)
- Panel interview with Engineering + Product
- Short paid project for finalists (optional)
- Decision and feedback within 7–10 business days
How to Apply
Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
We evaluate, score, and rank candidates based on real work—so your skills, not just your résumé, do the talking.
✅ Version 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Trainable Computer Engineer
📌 Job Title: Junior Computer Engineer — Learn & Ship Real Systems at Northstar Embedded Systems (NES)
💼 Type: Full-Time | On-Site or Hybrid | Denver, CO
💰 Salary Range: $78,000–$98,000 base + bonus + equity (DOE)
🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager
A quick welcome from our Engineering Manager (90 sec): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are (Northstar Embedded Systems)
NES builds the computing brains behind robots and smart machines. Our modules power autonomous forklifts, precision agriculture rigs, and inspection drones. We’re a hands-on team that pairs mentorship with meaningful work, so new engineers learn fast while contributing to production systems.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Learn by doing: you’ll ship code into real products with senior engineers by your side.
- Structured growth: a 6-month onboarding plan, dedicated mentor, and clear skill ladders.
- Variety: rotate across drivers, integration, automated testing, and performance tuning.
What You’ll Do
- Implement and test firmware features in C/C++ (with code reviews and guidance)
- Help with board bring-up, device drivers, and hardware diagnostics
- Build automated tests and CI checks for embedded targets
- Troubleshoot issues from lab to field deployments
- Document learnings and share demos in team reviews
What We’re Looking For
- Degree/diploma in CE/CS/EE (or equivalent project experience)
- Basics in C/C++ and Linux fundamentals; Python for tooling is a plus
- Curiosity, grit, and willingness to ask great questions
- Comfort working in a lab with dev boards and measurement tools
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision + mental-health support
- 401(k) with match + equity participation
- 18 days PTO + 10 company holidays
- $1,500 annual learning stipend + paid certifications
- Quarterly hack days + internal tech talks
- Modern hardware and fully stocked lab benches
Our Hiring Process
- Apply via WorkScreen (potential > pedigree)
- Short practical assessment (we’ll share prep resources)
- Collaborative interview with your future teammates
- Fast decision and feedback—typically within a week
How to Apply
Apply through WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link]
We’ll guide you through a short, relevant evaluation so we understand how you think, learn, and collaborate.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Computer Engineer Job Posts Work
Both versions of the job description are intentionally designed to do more than just “list tasks” — they’re built to attract, excite, and convert the right candidates while filtering out the wrong ones. Here’s the breakdown:
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles ✅
Instead of “Computer Engineer,” each title clearly states the seniority, focus area, and company:
- Senior Computer Engineer — Embedded & Systems at Northstar Embedded Systems
- Junior Computer Engineer — Learn & Ship Real Systems at Northstar Embedded Systems
This instantly tells candidates what the role is, the level of experience required, and the type of work they’ll be doing.
2. Video Element for Personal Connection ✅
Adding a short Loom/YouTube video from the hiring manager humanizes the process. Candidates get to see who they might work with, which builds trust and helps the company stand out in a sea of faceless posts.
3. Authentic Company Overview ✅
The “Who We Are” section is specific to Northstar Embedded Systems, including:
- Industry focus (embedded computing for robotics, autonomous vehicles, etc.)
- Company size (160 people)
- Real-world impact (used in warehouses, farms, and disaster-response)
This paints a clear picture of the environment and mission.
4. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section ✅
This section sells the opportunity directly to the candidate — showing:
- The kind of work they’ll own
- How fast their work gets into the field
- Opportunities for influence, mentorship, and variety in projects
It’s aspirational but grounded in reality, which appeals to high-quality applicants.
5. Responsibilities That Show Impact ✅
Tasks aren’t written as lifeless bullet points — they link to tangible outcomes:
- “Design and optimize embedded software…” → tells candidates they’ll be creating something new and improving performance.
- “Implement and test firmware features…” → shows hands-on learning and production contribution for junior roles.
6. Transparent Requirements ✅
- Senior role: clearly states technical depth, tools, and leadership expectations.
- Junior role: lists basics but emphasizes curiosity and willingness to learn, keeping the door open for high-potential candidates.
7. Separate “Perks & Benefits” ✅
These are not buried in the intro — they’re listed clearly so candidates can quickly see:
- Health, retirement, PTO
- Learning stipends and professional development
- Relocation support (for senior) and certifications (for junior)
Separating this section makes it easy for candidates to scan and assess.
8. Respectful Hiring Process ✅
- Both posts state how applications will be reviewed and what candidates can expect next.
- They highlight the use of WorkScreen.io to evaluate skills fairly, not just résumés.
- Timelines are provided (7–10 days or faster), which candidates value highly.
9. Call-to-Action That Connects ✅
Instead of “Email us your CV,” the CTA is:
- Clear (“Apply through WorkScreen”)
- Benefit-driven (“skills-first evaluation so your résumé isn’t the only thing that matters”)
- Aligned with the company’s modern, fair-hiring positioning.
This structure works because it blends clarity with personality, ensuring candidates see both the technical expectations and the human side of the company.
Bad Computer Engineer Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Computer Engineer
💼 Type: Full-Time | Location: Denver, CO
💰 Salary: Not specified
Job Summary
We are seeking a computer engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing computer hardware and software systems to meet company requirements.
Responsibilities
- Develop and test hardware and software systems
- Troubleshoot issues and provide solutions
- Work with other departments as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering or related field
- 3–5 years of experience
- Strong technical skills and attention to detail
How to Apply
Please send your CV and cover letter to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
1. Generic Job Title
“Computer Engineer” tells candidates nothing about the role’s focus, industry, or level. It could apply to hundreds of different jobs — no reason to click.
2. Cold, Impersonal Intro
The “Job Summary” is vague and reads like a compliance statement. There’s no mission, no context, and no reason to care.
3. No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
Leaving out pay and perks signals a lack of transparency — something top candidates expect.
4. Responsibilities Are Too Broad
“Develop and test hardware and software systems” could mean anything from writing firmware to installing office PCs. This makes the role unclear and unappealing.
5. No Culture, No Values
There’s no mention of the company’s mission, team size, or how they work — all key decision-making factors for candidates.
6. Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is cold and discouraging. It doesn’t explain timelines, steps, or how applicants will be evaluated.
7. Zero Personality in the CTA
The application instructions are transactional and outdated. There’s no warmth, no encouragement, and no reason for a candidate to believe their application matters.
This “bad example” shows exactly why generic job posts blend into the noise and attract mostly unqualified or disengaged applicants.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Computer Engineer Job Post Stand Out
Even with a solid structure, there are extra touches that can make your job description instantly more attractive to the right candidates. These details show thoughtfulness, build trust, and set you apart from 90% of employers.
1. Add an “Important Notice” for Security & Privacy 🛡️
Candidates are wary of job scams. Adding a short security statement builds instant trust:
IMPORTANT NOTICE: We take the security and privacy of all applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time 🌴
Even top performers value time to recharge. Call it out early:
Enjoy up to 22 paid days off per year, plus flexible sick leave, so you can rest, recharge, and return with fresh ideas.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities 📈
Great computer engineers are lifelong learners — signal that you invest in their growth:
We invest in your development. You’ll have a $2,500 annual learning stipend for certifications, conferences, and advanced training, plus quarterly hack days to explore new tech.
4. Include a Video from the Hiring Manager or CTO 🎥
A 1–2 minute Loom or YouTube video where the hiring manager introduces the role, talks about the team, and shares why it’s an exciting time to join.
It personalizes your post and keeps more candidates reading.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show Off Real Employee Testimonials 💬
Pull a short quote from an engineer on the team:
“At NES, I shipped code into production my first month and saw it running on a robot in the field two weeks later. That level of impact is rare.” — Alex M., Senior Embedded Engineer
6. Mention Tools & Tech Candidates Will Work With ⚙️
For technical hires, the tech stack is a selling point:
C/C++, Rust, Embedded Linux, RTOS, FPGA tools, ARM-based boards, CAD for PCB design, JTAG debugging, CI/CD pipelines.
7. State How Quickly You’ll Respond ⏱️
Respect is a competitive advantage:
We review every application and respond within 7 business days — no disappearing acts.
Adding even two or three of these elements can turn a good job post into an irresistible one — and signal that your company values both performance and people.
AI Caution: How to Use AI the Right Way for Job Posts
Lately, it feels like everyone is using AI to one-click generate job descriptions — even some applicant tracking systems (ATS) like Manatal and Workable now offer this feature.
The result?
Bland, generic posts that look exactly like everyone else’s and fail to connect with serious candidates.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone 🚫
If you just type “Write me a computer engineer job description” into ChatGPT or another AI tool, here’s what you get:
- A lifeless list of responsibilities that could be from any company in any industry
- No culture, no mission, no personality
- Zero selling points to attract top talent
- Posts that attract “apply-to-anything” candidates rather than high-intent, qualified engineers
A job post is often a candidate’s first impression of your company. Using a cookie-cutter AI output means you’re giving them a forgettable introduction.
The Right Way to Use AI ✅
AI is a powerful writing partner — but only if you feed it real, specific input. Treat it like a junior copywriter, not the hiring manager.
Here’s how to do it for a Computer Engineer role at Northstar Embedded Systems (NES):
Step 1 — Give AI the raw ingredients
- Company Overview: NES builds embedded computing solutions for robotics, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation. 160-person team, based in Denver, CO, shipping globally.
- Role Focus: Embedded systems design, ARM-based modules, C/C++, Rust, embedded Linux/RTOS.
- Culture: Fast-feedback engineering loops, cross-functional collaboration, high autonomy, mentorship culture.
- Ideal Candidate Traits: Problem solver, detail-oriented, collaborative, curious, passionate about building reliable tech.
- Salary Range: $125K–$155K DOE for senior roles.
- Benefits: Health, 401(k) match, PTO, learning stipend, relocation support.
- Hiring Process: Skills-first via WorkScreen.io, transparent timeline, feedback at every stage.
Step 2 — Prompt AI like this:
“Help me write a compelling job post for a Senior Computer Engineer at Northstar Embedded Systems in Denver, CO.
We build embedded computing solutions for robotics, autonomous vehicles, and industrial automation. This role focuses on ARM-based modules, C/C++, Rust, and embedded Linux/RTOS.
Our culture values fast-feedback loops, cross-functional collaboration, and autonomy.
We’re looking for problem solvers who care about reliability and efficiency.
Salary is $125K–$155K DOE with benefits (health, 401k match, PTO, learning stipend, relocation).
Hiring process is skills-first via WorkScreen.io with feedback at every stage.Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes].
Use a warm, human tone and write in a way that will excite top-tier engineers. Include a section on ‘Why This Role Is a Great Fit,’ a clear perks/benefits list, and an application CTA.”
Step 3 — Edit and Humanize
Once AI gives you a draft:
- Replace generic phrases with your company’s real examples
- Add video links or employee testimonials
- Ensure the responsibilities connect to real-world outcomes
The result?
You get speed from AI, but the human insight, culture, and specificity still shine through — exactly what attracts serious, high-fit engineers.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Computer Engineer Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational / Culture-First Style (Senior)
📌 Job Title: Senior Computer Engineer — Embedded Systems at [Company Name]
💼 Type: [Job Type] | [Work Arrangement] | [Location]
💰 Salary Range: [Salary Range] + [Bonus/Equity if applicable]
🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager
[Insert Loom/YouTube link] (1–2 minutes introducing the team, projects, and why now)
Who We Are
[Company Name] designs and delivers reliable, low-power computing systems that power real-world applications. Our teams turn complex hardware–software challenges into robust, user-invisible experiences. We value craftsmanship, clear communication, and shipping work that customers trust every day.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Own end-to-end delivery on embedded modules that ship into production quickly.
- Collaborate closely across hardware, firmware, and product to solve performance bottlenecks.
- Influence architecture standards and mentor engineers as we scale.
What You’ll Do
- Design and optimize embedded software for ARM-class systems (C/C++/Rust).
- Integrate drivers, kernels (embedded Linux/RTOS), and hardware interfaces (SPI/I²C/UART).
- Lead profiling, benchmarking, and reliability hardening.
- Contribute to board bring-up, HW/SW integration, and automated test pipelines.
- Review designs, improve engineering standards, and coach teammates.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s/Master’s in Computer/Electrical Engineering (or similar).
- 5+ years in embedded systems or HW/SW co-design.
- Strong in C/C++; familiarity with embedded Linux/RTOS (Rust a plus).
- Experience with bootloaders, device trees, BSPs; lab debugging tools (JTAG, logic analyzer).
- Clear communicator who enjoys cross-functional problem solving.
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision coverage.
- 401(k)/retirement plan with match.
- [Number] days PTO + [Number] holidays + flexible sick leave.
- Annual learning stipend for certs/courses/conferences.
- [Relocation/visa support if applicable] + modern hardware/lab access.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link].
You’ll complete a short, role-relevant skills evaluation so your abilities—not just your résumé—drive the process.
📄 Option 2: Structured Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements (Senior)
📌 Job Title: Senior Computer Engineer — Embedded Systems at [Company Name]
💼 Type: [Job Type] | [Work Arrangement] | [Location]
💰 Salary Range: [Salary Range] + [Bonus/Equity if applicable]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Senior Computer Engineer to design, develop, and optimize embedded computing solutions used in demanding environments. You’ll partner with hardware, firmware, and product teams to deliver secure, reliable, and high-performance systems.
Responsibilities
- Develop and optimize software for embedded platforms (C/C++/Rust).
- Perform HW/SW integration, bring-up, and troubleshooting.
- Lead performance benchmarking and system reliability improvements.
- Build automated tests and CI for embedded targets.
- Document designs and share knowledge across teams.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s/Master’s in CE/EE/CS or equivalent experience.
- 5+ years of embedded systems experience.
- Proficiency with embedded Linux/RTOS, device trees, bootloaders, BSPs.
- Strong debugging skills with lab tools and instrumentation.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health benefits.
- Retirement plan with employer match.
- Paid time off and company holidays.
- Professional development stipend.
- [Relocation assistance, if applicable].
Application Process
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen link].
Candidates complete a practical skills evaluation before interviews for a fair, transparent process.
Let WorkScreen.io Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Writing a great job post is just the first step. The real challenge starts when the applications pour in.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
1. Quickly Spot Your Best Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
2. Test Real-World Skills in One Click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
3. Filter Out Low-Effort Applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
4. Save Time Without Sacrificing Quality
Instead of manually reviewing every application, you’ll spend your time engaging with the most promising candidates — while knowing your process is fair, objective, and data-driven.
If you’ve just created a great Computer Engineer job description, don’t let it get buried under a pile of unqualified applications. Publish it, share the WorkScreen link, and let our platform do the heavy lifting.
FAQ
When hiring a computer engineer, look beyond just technical knowledge. The most effective hires typically have:
- Core Technical Skills: Proficiency in languages like C, C++, Python, or Rust; experience with embedded systems, hardware design, or system integration.
- Problem-Solving Ability: Ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly, often under tight deadlines.
- Collaboration Skills: Comfortable working across hardware, software, and product teams.
- Adaptability: Able to keep up with evolving technologies and industry standards.
- Attention to Detail: Precision in design, testing, and documentation.
While hard skills are essential, strong communication and teamwork can be just as critical to success in the role.
Salaries vary depending on location, industry, and experience level:
- Entry-Level: $65,000–$85,000/year in the U.S.
- Mid-Level: $85,000–$110,000/year
- Senior-Level: $110,000–$150,000/year or more, especially in specialized industries like aerospace, robotics, or high-performance computing.
Additional factors like advanced degrees, niche expertise, and security clearances can push compensation higher.
While there’s overlap, computer engineers typically work at the hardware–software interface — designing and integrating physical systems with code. Software engineers generally focus solely on applications or software systems. Computer engineers often have expertise in embedded systems, hardware design, and electronics alongside programming skills.
Certifications aren’t always mandatory but can demonstrate specialized skills. Examples include:
- CompTIA A+ or Network+ (foundational IT knowledge)
- Cisco CCNA/CCNP (networking)
- FPGA or embedded systems certifications from vendors like Xilinx or Intel
- Security certifications like CISSP if the role involves secure systems
While valuable, proven hands-on experience often carries more weight than certificates alone.
