Software Engineer

What a Software Engineer Does

Software engineers create and develop all kinds of software programs, such as video games, computer operating systems, network systems, business applications, and so on. They must design and engineer programs that can work within hardware limitations and still provide the best interface experience according to the needs of the user. Based on the user's needs, software engineers will construct and test various version of an application. Once a test is successful, they then engineer the program, implement it to the user's specifications, and maintain it for the user if needed. Software engineers can set up companies' programs to respond directly to that company's needs. For example, a sales and marketing company might hire software engineers to develop, construct, and maintain a specific sales application, which could track accounts and log sales, so its employees could better interact with potential clients. In this case, software engineers will have made a significant contribution to the continued success of that company. This is just one example of the many responsibilities and job requirements of software engineers.

How to Become a Software Engineer

In general, software engineers will most often need a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, such as software engineering, mathematics, computer information systems, and so on, in order to get a job. Employers may also accept a two-year certification and extensive job experience as evidence of a job candidate's expertise. Of course, the kind of job to which you apply will determine your background. For example, companies that hire software engineers for research and scientific applications will most likely prefer college graduates to have degrees in information science, while employers who wish to use computers for business applications may require candidates to have degrees in management of information systems and business. In addition to a solid education, potential employees should have extensive professional experience, which they can gain through internships and mentorships. Finally, employers will often require their software engineers to keep up with the latest developments in software technology, so continued learning and training programs will be beneficial to employees.

Career Outlook for Software Engineers

For software engineers, the job outlook is very good, especially for those who have a bachelor's degree and solid professional experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over the next eight years, employment opportunities for software engineers are expected to increase 21 percent. For this rise, software engineers can thank the sharp increase in computer networking applications throughout many sectors. As more companies, organizations, and government branches need help developing their internet, intranet, and other communications applications, software engineers will find their abilities in high demand. Due to this demand, software engineers make good income, earning in 2008 a median annual salary of $85,430, with the top ten percent earning around $130,000. The industries that offered the higest salaries to software engineers include professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers, scientific research and development services, computer and peripheral manufacturing, software publishers, and computer systems design and related services.