Computer Hardware Engineers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 9 (50%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 7 (39%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 2 (11%)

• Update knowledge and skills to keep up with rapid advancements in computer technology.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Design and develop computer hardware and support peripherals, including central processing units (CPUs), support logic, microprocessors, custom integrated circuits, and printers and disk drives.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Confer with engineering staff and consult specifications to evaluate interface between hardware and software and operational and performance requirements of overall system.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Write detailed functional specifications that document the hardware development process and support hardware introduction.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Test and verify hardware and support peripherals to ensure that they meet specifications and requirements, by recording and analyzing test data.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Evaluate factors such as reporting formats required, cost constraints, and need for security restrictions to determine hardware configuration.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Monitor functioning of equipment and make necessary modifications to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Specify power supply requirements and configuration, drawing on system performance expectations and design specifications.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Build, test, and modify product prototypes, using working models or theoretical models constructed with computer simulation.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Provide technical support to designers, marketing and sales departments, suppliers, engineers and other team members throughout the product development and implementation process.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Select hardware and material, assuring compliance with specifications and product requirements.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Analyze user needs and recommend appropriate hardware.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Provide training and support to system designers and users.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan layout, including type of computers and peripheral equipment modifications.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Recommend purchase of equipment to control dust, temperature, and humidity in area of system installation.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Direct technicians, engineering designers or other technical support personnel as needed.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Assemble and modify existing pieces of equipment to meet special needs.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task