Software engineers design and develop computer programs that control how machines function. This profession utilizes various technical tools and languages to produce products that are both dependable and user-friendly, often working alongside data scientists, user experience designers, or other team members to ensure the software they create meets client needs.
Starting a Career in Software Engineering
A career in software engineering can be an ideal fit for those interested in technology. This field can be extremely satisfying as it combines problem-solving with creating technology to improve people's lives.
As part of your first steps into this career, it is necessary to develop a comprehensive knowledge of computer programming. You can do so either by enrolling in a bachelor's degree program in computer science or engineering, or attending a coding bootcamp to master one specific programming language.
Soft skills development will also be key. These include excellent written and verbal communication as well as collaboration among project team members, nonengineering colleagues and business leaders. Acquiring these abilities can help you form lasting relationships with clients as well as enhance your reputation within the industry.
Based on your level of expertise, you may start as an entry-level junior engineer where your main goal will be learning new projects under the tutelage of a mentor and gaining experience. Over time you may take on more responsibility within your role and must possess an extensive understanding of software life cycle development.
After five to eight years2, you should typically progress into becoming a senior engineer with more advanced knowledge of software engineering processes and practices. You'll usually lead small teams or projects and may provide mentoring and guidance to junior engineers; your salary as a senior engineer usually ranges between $300,000 and $400,000.
Your duties as a software engineer are varied and complex. While much of your time will likely be spent writing code, you'll also work closely with UI or UX designers to develop user-friendly software products. In addition, collaborating with other teams to find solutions to difficult problems may also be required - and testing products for defects before release to customers could also fall under your remit.
Sometimes you will need to create prototypes of your product for demonstration purposes. Doing this can save both money and time by eliminating unnecessary rework.
Software engineers can find work in industries as diverse as finance, health care and technology. They may work from an office setting or remotely with their teams; many tech companies also provide flexible working options and employee perks to make the workday more comfortable for employees.
In most roles, computer engineering or information systems degrees will be necessary. Furthermore, you will require at least one year of hands-on software development experience from an internship, coding bootcamp or degree program; although, for maximum effectiveness most successful software developers would find working for a company prior to getting training and experience through work experience first.
