What Does A Software Engineer Do?

The role of a software engineer is to apply various principles across a range of disciplines such as engineering, math, and information technology in order to design and develop software applications for computers. Without the software a computer cannot function.

Duties

Some of the main roles taken on by a software engineer:

• Designing, developing, and installing software program initiatives based on customer needs
• Monitoring the performance of the system
• Directing software system validation and programming initiatives
• Analyzing data to install new systems or to modify existing systems
• Working with clients and other related parties to communicate the project
• Developing new project plans
• Executing new project plans
• Communicating with related departments about proposals and project status
• Management of the software development lifecycle
• Determining the feasibility of a project
• Conferring with users to develop an effective business strategy
• Develop documentation, flowcharts, layouts, diagrams, charts and code comments
• Preparing and installing programs based on predetermined design specifications, standards, and programs
• Improving the operations of a system by analyzing the software program closely and testing the product before approval
• Updating the policy and procedures of a system
• Obtaining the necessary licenses for the software from the relevant vendors
• Protecting operations and keeping all private information confidential
• Collect, analyze, and summarize information about the development and running of the program
• Working across different platforms such as the internet, mobile devices, and desktop computers
• Attending conferences to stay up to date with the latest developments in the field. This is also a great way to network with other professionals and learn about new products

Different Types of Software Engineer

There are two specializations in software engineering: applications and software/systems development. Some branches within these specialty areas include:

• Front-End Engineer: a software engineer specializing in development of the user interface (UI). This involves creating visual elements such as software layouts and aesthetics. These software engineers work with codes to fix bugs and to ensure the visual presentation of the user interface is flawless.
• Back-End Engineer: this software engineer focuses on the logical and performance aspects of the application. They will be in charge of designing and implementing the logical features of the program by making use of Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
• Full Stack Engineer: manages both the front and back-end of the software engineering. These engineers are specialized enough to create a fully functional web application.
• Software Engineer in Test: also known as a QA Engineer, these engineers are responsible for writing the software and approving its quality. They create automated tests, tools, and methods that ensure products and processes run smoothly.
• DevOps Engineer: these software engineers manage the infrastructure of the applications by building, deploying and integrating the back-end software.
• Security Engineer: responsible for creating systems as well as their methods and procedures which are needed to test the security of the systems. These engineers will attempt to hack and penetrate the system to pinpoint its weaknesses in an attempt to rectify these security flaws.

How to Become a Software Engineer

To become a software engineer requires a tertiary education qualification. Work experience requirements will depend on the company you are applying to and the position you are applying for.

Education

Due to the unique, scientific and technically driven field of the career, to become a software engineer requires a tertiary education qualification sometimes up to a master’s or PhD level.

There are multiple entry points into profession. This includes:

• An Associate Degree: a two-year program offering the opportunity to apply for entry-level positions in the field. This degree focuses on the core principles of software engineering, programming languages, and more modern approaches to software development.
• A Bachelor’s Degree: in four-year program in computer sciences, software engineering, or other related fields. This is a broader curriculum with a foundation on based on math and computer sciences.
• Coding Bootcamp: this is a newly introduced pathway into the career, where aspiring software engineers or developers can immerse themselves in a hands-on learning environment. The program runs for 8 to 12 weeks and graduates can apply for entry-level positions as a software engineer or developer at companies that recognize the course.

Certifications are an important part of the industry due to the precise and technical nature of the industry. A certificate verifies the knowledge and abilities of an individual, which can improve the employment prospects of an individual within a highly competitive marketplace.

These certificates can be obtained through professional organizations such as IEEE or through technology vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco, and Oracle.

Required Work Experience

Work experience requirements will depend on the company you are applying to and the position you are applying for. Most companies look for 2 to 5 years’ experience for positions that aren’t at an entry-level.

Internships are important and provide students with the real-world experience in the career path of a software engineer by developing skills on specific projects. These internships typically last 8 to 12 weeks and will be taken into account when applying for a job position.

According to Forbes magazine, and entry-level software engineering program is one of the most sought after and best entry-level careers available.

Key Skills to Have

• Information analysis
• Leadership skills
• Working well in a team
• Programming skills
• Knowledge of programming languages such Java, Python, Mean, Ruby, etc
• Software design
• Software debugging
• Software documentation
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Logical thinking
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Software testing
• Adaptability to the ever-changing nature of the profession in terms of new technologies
• Cost analysis
• Project management
• Object orientated design which is made up of four key principles: abstraction, encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism
• Attention to details