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Computer Software Engineer
Computer software engineers invent new software. They utilize mathematics and the basic concepts of computer science to develop, troubleshoot, and analyze software intended to perform computer functions. The duties of these professionals frequently change since the technology is constantly changing and companies frequently alter their organizational direction. Software engineers create various kinds of software, such as middleware, network operation systems, operating systems, and video games. These specialists must understand various computer science theories, how software is designed, and the capabilities of hardware to make sure new software will function properly.
Computer software engineers develop new software by first determining what consumers need, and then they create, troubleshoot, and develop new software to satisfy consumers. To develop software, computer software engineers prepare diagrams and flowcharts, and then they develop algorithms that instruct computers how to function. Many software engineers transform algorithms into programming languages, a process known as coding or programming; however, computer programmers usually perform these duties.
There are generally two types of computer software engineers: computer systems and computer applications engineers. Computer applications software engineers assess what consumers want, and then they develop applications software or programs designed to meet these demands. These specialists utilize various programming languages to develop new software. Most computer applications software engineers rely on Python, Java, C++, and C programming languages to develop new software. Certain software engineers develop standardized computer applications; however, most applications engineers develop original applications to be used by companies and other firms. Certain applications software engineers specialize in database development.
Computer systems software engineers supervise the development, troubleshooting, and expansion of a company's computer networks. Working closely with companies, they determine the technology needs of each division within a company, whether these divisions need computers to maintain records, keep track of inventories, etc., and then they collaborate with other specialists to install technology. Many computer systems software engineers install intranets, internal computer networks intended to consolidate files and make internal communication easier. Frequently, they are charged with network security and setting up databases.
Systems software engineers are also employed by organizations that design, set-up, and maintain computer networks for other companies. These specialists frequently work for sales and marketing departments by providing technical support for other workers in these departments, and they also maintain and update a division's computer networks. Because selling complex networks usually requires extensive customization to accommodate customers' demands, software engineers determine what alterations should be made and explain these changes to their customers. Likewise, systems software engineers must ensure networks they enhance or develop are secure from online threats.
Computer programmers perform coding and develop new software programs. Once new software is developed, computer programmers transform designs into instructions that will perform computer operations. Programmers also convert these instructions into various types of programming languages. Most programmers heavily utilize Python and C++.
Computer programmers alter current programs, fix software problems, and update outdated software. Many programmers, specifically those collaborating with other programmers on big projects, utilize computer-assisted software engineering (CASE) technology that automatically performs coding. As a result, programmers can spend more time customizing software. Those responsible for smaller projects usually utilize special applications that automatically perform coding operations, debugging, and code generation. Programmers also utilize frequently used codes that can be altered to perform customized operations. This strategy creates consistent and bug-free programs and makes it possible for programmers to get more done during the day.
Since software technology is constantly evolving, and more programming operations are performed automatically, programmers are assuming duties once the responsibility of software engineers. Many programmers are now collaborating with software engineers to determine what consumers want and develop new software.
Work environment. Computer programmers and software engineers usually complete their work in comfortable labs or office buildings. Software engineers employed by consulting firms and companies selling software are often required to travel. More programmers are now working from home since improvements in technology has made it possible to develop and write software from most locations.
Programmers and software engineers usually work 40 hour weeks; however, during 2008, a small percentage of these specialists spent more than 50 hours each week performing their duties. These specialists rarely, if ever, get injured on the job. But, since they spend a considerable portion of the day in front of computer screens, software programmers and engineers must take precautions to avoid back pain, eyestrain, and problems associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Training and Qualifications
Most companies hiring software engineers seek candidates with bachelor's degrees, but some companies with open positions seek to fill these jobs with people holding master's degrees. Companies hiring programmers also often fill open positions with workers possessing bachelor's degrees, but many people land entry-level jobs with only certificates or associate's degrees. Most companies prefer to hire specialists with prior work experience. Those knowledgeable about the newest technology often get promoted and enjoy more job opportunities.
Education and training. Most companies hiring software engineers seek applicants with prior applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree. Most people beginning careers as software engineers majored in math, software engineering, or computer science during college. Engineers specializing in systems frequently major in computer information systems or computer science. Companies seeking applicants to fill complex positions prefer those with master's or doctorate degrees.
Many companies filling programming positions seek applications with bachelor's degrees, but entry-level programming jobs can be obtained with a certificate or associate's degree. Computer programmers usually majored in information systems, math, or computer science during college, and many programmers enhance their job opportunities after entering the workforce by completing continuing education courses in finance, accounting, business management, etc.
Companies specializing in engineering or computer science applications often seek to fill open positions with graduates of engineering, math, or information science college programs. Companies that utilize computers for business operations usually seek to hire individuals with excellent programming skills, and those who've completed courses in business and information systems during college. Many companies seek applicants with mater's or doctorate degrees in related fields.
Companies value educated workers, but they also prefer to hire individuals with programming skills and applicable work experience. People interested in software engineering or programming careers can improve their job opportunities by completing internships. Certain companies, including consulting firms, sponsor computer-based training programs for new workers.
As technology improves, companies will require services from specialists with the most current job skills. To stay up-to-date with current technology, employees can attend professional development conference s or enroll in continuing education programs sponsored by various organizations. Computer software engineers should develop skills applicable to the field they work in. For example, an engineer employed by a financial institution should understand fundamental finance and the type of computer technology their company requires.
Certification and other qualifications. Those completing certification programs demonstrate that they have knowledge of basic industry concepts, which will set them apart from other job seekers. Software firms or product distributors often administer certification programs. These companies frequently require individuals working with their technology to become certified. Professional computer organizations frequently offer certification programs.
Computer programmers and software engineers should have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Creativity and innovation are especially critical when developing new software free of bugs. Systems engineers should have technical assessment and abstract thinking skills since they develop software controlling a network's functions. These specialists should also have effective communication skills since they must relay information to co-workers, customers, and managers. Since they are frequently required to multi-task, software engineers and programmers must be detail oriented. Those interested in working in management should possess business knowledge and skills.
Advancement. Talented employees with knowledge about current technology should be in a position to receive promotions. Computer software engineers also improve their opportunities for promotion after acquiring work experience. Many software engineers get promoted to work as project managers, chief information officers, and information systems managers, especially if they possess business knowledge and skills. Many software engineers with extensive experience eventually land high paying consulting or systems design jobs. This is especially true for software engineers with expertise in network security, database administration, and business.
At larger companies or firms, programmers often receive management or lead programmer promotions. Certain applications programmers become systems programmers after acquiring work experience and completing systems software classes. Those with business knowledge and experience, often become managers or systems or programmer analysts. Programmers possessing expertise in operating systems or programming languages often find jobs as software engineers. Since more companies contract their programming needs, more opportunities should exist for software specialists interested in consulting jobs.
Employment
During 2008, nearly 1.3 million computer programmers and software engineers were employed throughout the United States. Of these specialists, 514,800 worked as computer applications software engineers, 394,800 worked as systems software engineers, and nearly 426,700 worked as programmers. Programmers and software engineers are employed in most industries, but more than 30 percent of these specialists worked for companies and firms specializing in systems design. Numerous computer hardware manufacturers, software publishing firms, insurance companies, and banks and brokerage firms hire programmers and software engineers. During 2008, nearly 50,000 of these specialties ran their own businesses.
Job Outlook
Job growth for software engineers and programmers is estimated to increase at a quicker rate than average growth in other industries. Those with applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree should have the best job opportunities.
Employment change. It's been projected that job growth for software engineers and computer programmers should rise by more than 20 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than average growth in industries.
Job growth for computer software engineers is projected to rise by more than 30 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than projected average growth in other industries. Moreover, it's been estimated that over 295,000 software engineering jobs will be created by 2018. This growth will be spurred as more companies expand their computer networks. Companies wanting to improve Internet technology and intranet networks will also hire large quantities of software engineers. Systems software engineers will also be needed to maintain and supervise complex data processing networks utilized by government agencies, telecommunications firms, and healthcare providers. The need for competent professionals to install, protect, and update computer systems will also spur job growth for systems software engineers.
Job growth will also continue to be fueled by technological changes. Efforts to expand Internet availability and the growth of new websites and new mobile devices that retrieve the Internet have increased demand for software engineers. Since more companies are purchasing customized software and installing networks designed to accommodate their business needs, demand for qualified software and systems engineers should rise at high rates. Moreover, the growth of the smartphone industry will increase demand for mobile software, and job growth for software and systems engineers will be fueled as more companies integrate their networks with mobile technology.
Creating software that is secure from online threats will also spur job growth for software engineers. In fact, more companies are investing in software designed to safeguard computer networks from security breaches and online threats. The need for online protection software will ensure that job growth for software engineers during the next decade will be high. In addition to developing online security software, they will also be responsible for updating systems with outdated security protections and performing routine maintenance on these networks.
Unfortunately, job growth for software engineers will be moderated during the near future as more companies outsource these jobs to foreign markets. Many companies are moving jobs to countries with large quantities of skilled software engineers who will accept lower wages than their American colleagues. Compared to software engineering jobs, more programming jobs will be outsourced since software engineers are required to constantly develop new and innovative technology.
Job growth for computer programmers is projected to decline 3 percent through 2018. This will largely be the result of foreign outsourcing, improvements in programming technology, and the increased number of workers with little programming training able to write computer programs.
Since programmers can submit their completed projects electronically, they can work anywhere with Internet access, so companies often hire programmers in foreign countries who do not demand high wages. Therefore, programming jobs are more susceptible to outsourcing than more complex jobs, such as software engineering positions. After specific programming languages are understood, it doesn't take any other specialized training to complete programming work.
However, companies will still hire local programmers, specifically skilled programmers and those able to meet the specific programming needs of the companies hiring them. Thus, programmers with extensive knowledge about programming language and the most up-to-date software technology should have the best job prospects. Many companies are also making efforts to hire domestic programmers, rather than outsourcing these programming jobs to foreign markets. Companies doing this do not have to deal with the difficulty of communicating and coordinating with people living in foreign countries.
Job prospects. Since job growth has been projected through 2018, software engineers should have many job opportunities through the near future. Programmers with applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree will more than likely have the best job prospects. Companies will continue to recruit computer specialists with business, communication, network analysis, and excellent programming skills. Additionally, more jobs will be available as programmers retire and make career transitions. Since many companies are willing to pay handsomely for software engineers to supervise, update, and customize their networks, there should be plenty of job opportunities for software engineers interested in consulting.
Although job growth of computer programmers is expected to decrease, there will still be plenty of job opportunities in this field as people currently working in the industry retire and begin careers in other fields. Those with experience working with programming technology and a bachelor's degree should be prime candidates to fill these job openings. As new technology is developed to make programming easier, individuals currently working as programmers , or those aspiring to a career in this field, will enhance their job marketability by updating their knowledge and further developing their skill set. Those completing certification programs sponsored by software companies or enhancing their knowledge of specific programming languages will also increase their marketability in the job market.
Earnings Information
During 2008, median incomes for software engineers and computer applications specialists exceeded $80,000 a year. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $67,790-104,870 a year. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made fewer than $53,000 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $128,870 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of software engineers and computer applications specialists were employed during 2008:
During 2008, median yearly earnings for computer systems software engineers exceeded $90,000. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $73,200-113,960 a year. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made under $57,810 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $135,780 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of computer systems software engineers were employed during 2008:
During 2008, median yearly earnings for computer programmers were $69,620. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $52,640-89,720 annually. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made under $40,080 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $111,450 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of computer programmers were employed during 2008:
The National Association of Colleges and Employers reported in 2009 that computer scientists with bachelor's degrees beginning their careers averaged over $60,000 a year.
Computer software engineers develop new software by first determining what consumers need, and then they create, troubleshoot, and develop new software to satisfy consumers. To develop software, computer software engineers prepare diagrams and flowcharts, and then they develop algorithms that instruct computers how to function. Many software engineers transform algorithms into programming languages, a process known as coding or programming; however, computer programmers usually perform these duties.
There are generally two types of computer software engineers: computer systems and computer applications engineers. Computer applications software engineers assess what consumers want, and then they develop applications software or programs designed to meet these demands. These specialists utilize various programming languages to develop new software. Most computer applications software engineers rely on Python, Java, C++, and C programming languages to develop new software. Certain software engineers develop standardized computer applications; however, most applications engineers develop original applications to be used by companies and other firms. Certain applications software engineers specialize in database development.
Computer systems software engineers supervise the development, troubleshooting, and expansion of a company's computer networks. Working closely with companies, they determine the technology needs of each division within a company, whether these divisions need computers to maintain records, keep track of inventories, etc., and then they collaborate with other specialists to install technology. Many computer systems software engineers install intranets, internal computer networks intended to consolidate files and make internal communication easier. Frequently, they are charged with network security and setting up databases.
Systems software engineers are also employed by organizations that design, set-up, and maintain computer networks for other companies. These specialists frequently work for sales and marketing departments by providing technical support for other workers in these departments, and they also maintain and update a division's computer networks. Because selling complex networks usually requires extensive customization to accommodate customers' demands, software engineers determine what alterations should be made and explain these changes to their customers. Likewise, systems software engineers must ensure networks they enhance or develop are secure from online threats.
Computer programmers perform coding and develop new software programs. Once new software is developed, computer programmers transform designs into instructions that will perform computer operations. Programmers also convert these instructions into various types of programming languages. Most programmers heavily utilize Python and C++.
Computer programmers alter current programs, fix software problems, and update outdated software. Many programmers, specifically those collaborating with other programmers on big projects, utilize computer-assisted software engineering (CASE) technology that automatically performs coding. As a result, programmers can spend more time customizing software. Those responsible for smaller projects usually utilize special applications that automatically perform coding operations, debugging, and code generation. Programmers also utilize frequently used codes that can be altered to perform customized operations. This strategy creates consistent and bug-free programs and makes it possible for programmers to get more done during the day.
Since software technology is constantly evolving, and more programming operations are performed automatically, programmers are assuming duties once the responsibility of software engineers. Many programmers are now collaborating with software engineers to determine what consumers want and develop new software.
Work environment. Computer programmers and software engineers usually complete their work in comfortable labs or office buildings. Software engineers employed by consulting firms and companies selling software are often required to travel. More programmers are now working from home since improvements in technology has made it possible to develop and write software from most locations.
Programmers and software engineers usually work 40 hour weeks; however, during 2008, a small percentage of these specialists spent more than 50 hours each week performing their duties. These specialists rarely, if ever, get injured on the job. But, since they spend a considerable portion of the day in front of computer screens, software programmers and engineers must take precautions to avoid back pain, eyestrain, and problems associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Training and Qualifications
Most companies hiring software engineers seek candidates with bachelor's degrees, but some companies with open positions seek to fill these jobs with people holding master's degrees. Companies hiring programmers also often fill open positions with workers possessing bachelor's degrees, but many people land entry-level jobs with only certificates or associate's degrees. Most companies prefer to hire specialists with prior work experience. Those knowledgeable about the newest technology often get promoted and enjoy more job opportunities.
Education and training. Most companies hiring software engineers seek applicants with prior applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree. Most people beginning careers as software engineers majored in math, software engineering, or computer science during college. Engineers specializing in systems frequently major in computer information systems or computer science. Companies seeking applicants to fill complex positions prefer those with master's or doctorate degrees.
Many companies filling programming positions seek applications with bachelor's degrees, but entry-level programming jobs can be obtained with a certificate or associate's degree. Computer programmers usually majored in information systems, math, or computer science during college, and many programmers enhance their job opportunities after entering the workforce by completing continuing education courses in finance, accounting, business management, etc.
Companies specializing in engineering or computer science applications often seek to fill open positions with graduates of engineering, math, or information science college programs. Companies that utilize computers for business operations usually seek to hire individuals with excellent programming skills, and those who've completed courses in business and information systems during college. Many companies seek applicants with mater's or doctorate degrees in related fields.
Companies value educated workers, but they also prefer to hire individuals with programming skills and applicable work experience. People interested in software engineering or programming careers can improve their job opportunities by completing internships. Certain companies, including consulting firms, sponsor computer-based training programs for new workers.
As technology improves, companies will require services from specialists with the most current job skills. To stay up-to-date with current technology, employees can attend professional development conference s or enroll in continuing education programs sponsored by various organizations. Computer software engineers should develop skills applicable to the field they work in. For example, an engineer employed by a financial institution should understand fundamental finance and the type of computer technology their company requires.
Certification and other qualifications. Those completing certification programs demonstrate that they have knowledge of basic industry concepts, which will set them apart from other job seekers. Software firms or product distributors often administer certification programs. These companies frequently require individuals working with their technology to become certified. Professional computer organizations frequently offer certification programs.
Computer programmers and software engineers should have excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Creativity and innovation are especially critical when developing new software free of bugs. Systems engineers should have technical assessment and abstract thinking skills since they develop software controlling a network's functions. These specialists should also have effective communication skills since they must relay information to co-workers, customers, and managers. Since they are frequently required to multi-task, software engineers and programmers must be detail oriented. Those interested in working in management should possess business knowledge and skills.
Advancement. Talented employees with knowledge about current technology should be in a position to receive promotions. Computer software engineers also improve their opportunities for promotion after acquiring work experience. Many software engineers get promoted to work as project managers, chief information officers, and information systems managers, especially if they possess business knowledge and skills. Many software engineers with extensive experience eventually land high paying consulting or systems design jobs. This is especially true for software engineers with expertise in network security, database administration, and business.
At larger companies or firms, programmers often receive management or lead programmer promotions. Certain applications programmers become systems programmers after acquiring work experience and completing systems software classes. Those with business knowledge and experience, often become managers or systems or programmer analysts. Programmers possessing expertise in operating systems or programming languages often find jobs as software engineers. Since more companies contract their programming needs, more opportunities should exist for software specialists interested in consulting jobs.
Employment
During 2008, nearly 1.3 million computer programmers and software engineers were employed throughout the United States. Of these specialists, 514,800 worked as computer applications software engineers, 394,800 worked as systems software engineers, and nearly 426,700 worked as programmers. Programmers and software engineers are employed in most industries, but more than 30 percent of these specialists worked for companies and firms specializing in systems design. Numerous computer hardware manufacturers, software publishing firms, insurance companies, and banks and brokerage firms hire programmers and software engineers. During 2008, nearly 50,000 of these specialties ran their own businesses.
Job Outlook
Job growth for software engineers and programmers is estimated to increase at a quicker rate than average growth in other industries. Those with applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree should have the best job opportunities.
Employment change. It's been projected that job growth for software engineers and computer programmers should rise by more than 20 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than average growth in industries.
Job growth for computer software engineers is projected to rise by more than 30 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than projected average growth in other industries. Moreover, it's been estimated that over 295,000 software engineering jobs will be created by 2018. This growth will be spurred as more companies expand their computer networks. Companies wanting to improve Internet technology and intranet networks will also hire large quantities of software engineers. Systems software engineers will also be needed to maintain and supervise complex data processing networks utilized by government agencies, telecommunications firms, and healthcare providers. The need for competent professionals to install, protect, and update computer systems will also spur job growth for systems software engineers.
Job growth will also continue to be fueled by technological changes. Efforts to expand Internet availability and the growth of new websites and new mobile devices that retrieve the Internet have increased demand for software engineers. Since more companies are purchasing customized software and installing networks designed to accommodate their business needs, demand for qualified software and systems engineers should rise at high rates. Moreover, the growth of the smartphone industry will increase demand for mobile software, and job growth for software and systems engineers will be fueled as more companies integrate their networks with mobile technology.
Creating software that is secure from online threats will also spur job growth for software engineers. In fact, more companies are investing in software designed to safeguard computer networks from security breaches and online threats. The need for online protection software will ensure that job growth for software engineers during the next decade will be high. In addition to developing online security software, they will also be responsible for updating systems with outdated security protections and performing routine maintenance on these networks.
Unfortunately, job growth for software engineers will be moderated during the near future as more companies outsource these jobs to foreign markets. Many companies are moving jobs to countries with large quantities of skilled software engineers who will accept lower wages than their American colleagues. Compared to software engineering jobs, more programming jobs will be outsourced since software engineers are required to constantly develop new and innovative technology.
Job growth for computer programmers is projected to decline 3 percent through 2018. This will largely be the result of foreign outsourcing, improvements in programming technology, and the increased number of workers with little programming training able to write computer programs.
Since programmers can submit their completed projects electronically, they can work anywhere with Internet access, so companies often hire programmers in foreign countries who do not demand high wages. Therefore, programming jobs are more susceptible to outsourcing than more complex jobs, such as software engineering positions. After specific programming languages are understood, it doesn't take any other specialized training to complete programming work.
However, companies will still hire local programmers, specifically skilled programmers and those able to meet the specific programming needs of the companies hiring them. Thus, programmers with extensive knowledge about programming language and the most up-to-date software technology should have the best job prospects. Many companies are also making efforts to hire domestic programmers, rather than outsourcing these programming jobs to foreign markets. Companies doing this do not have to deal with the difficulty of communicating and coordinating with people living in foreign countries.
Job prospects. Since job growth has been projected through 2018, software engineers should have many job opportunities through the near future. Programmers with applicable work experience and a bachelor's degree will more than likely have the best job prospects. Companies will continue to recruit computer specialists with business, communication, network analysis, and excellent programming skills. Additionally, more jobs will be available as programmers retire and make career transitions. Since many companies are willing to pay handsomely for software engineers to supervise, update, and customize their networks, there should be plenty of job opportunities for software engineers interested in consulting.
Although job growth of computer programmers is expected to decrease, there will still be plenty of job opportunities in this field as people currently working in the industry retire and begin careers in other fields. Those with experience working with programming technology and a bachelor's degree should be prime candidates to fill these job openings. As new technology is developed to make programming easier, individuals currently working as programmers , or those aspiring to a career in this field, will enhance their job marketability by updating their knowledge and further developing their skill set. Those completing certification programs sponsored by software companies or enhancing their knowledge of specific programming languages will also increase their marketability in the job market.
Earnings Information
During 2008, median incomes for software engineers and computer applications specialists exceeded $80,000 a year. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $67,790-104,870 a year. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made fewer than $53,000 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $128,870 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of software engineers and computer applications specialists were employed during 2008:
- Professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers $93,740
- Software publishers 87,710
- Management of companies and enterprises 85,990
- Computer systems design and related services 84,610
- Insurance carriers 80,370
During 2008, median yearly earnings for computer systems software engineers exceeded $90,000. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $73,200-113,960 a year. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made under $57,810 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $135,780 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of computer systems software engineers were employed during 2008:
- Scientific research and development services $102,090
- Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing 101,270
- Software publishers 93,590
- Navigational measuring electromedical and control instruments manufacturing 91,720
- Computer systems design and related services 91,610
During 2008, median yearly earnings for computer programmers were $69,620. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $52,640-89,720 annually. Those in the bottom 10th percentile made under $40,080 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $111,450 a year. The following are the median yearly salaries in the fields where the majority of computer programmers were employed during 2008:
- Software publishers $81,780
- Management of companies and enterprises 71,040
- Computer systems design and related services 70,270
- Employment services 70,070
- Insurance carriers 69,790
The National Association of Colleges and Employers reported in 2009 that computer scientists with bachelor's degrees beginning their careers averaged over $60,000 a year.