Software engineers create software for applications and computers in the digital world. They apply their knowledge in engineering and programming languages to build software solutions for end users.
Software engineers can work in many different fields ranging from desktop and web applications to mobile and gaming development. Despite working in different areas of tech, all Software engineers have one thing in common.
They solve problems using their knowledge in programming and coding.
In this post, I’ll go over what software engineers do. In addition, I’ll go over basic qualifications such as educational requirements, skills, work setting and the mentality you should have as a Software engineer.
Educational Requirements
Traditionally, Software engineers possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, software engineering or a related field. If you do have or plan to purse a Computer science degree, an internship or a well-developed personal project can put you ahead of other graduates.
If you don’t have a degree in Computer Science, don’t worry because employers value practical programming experience over academic achievements. But how do you get practical programming experience? By learning on your own through creating your own projects!
By learning on your own, it shows you are willing to go beyond what you know to get the job done. You will make up for your lack of a CS degree be demonstrating that you can learn on your own. Take a look at what technologies companies in your area are using and use those technologies to come up with your own projects. Doing this provides knowledge that no university can replicate.
If you want to learn more about become a self-taught Software engineer, check out my blog post about how to become a Software engineer without a degree.
Software engineers must commit to lifelong learning. Personal and Professional development and continuing education keeps engineers skills sharp and up to date. I recommend these books if you’re a current developer or working on becoming one.
Skills
Technical skills vary among Software engineers but these are 3 skills I believe are crucial for every Software engineer to have:
- Be able to analyze technical information
- The ability to analyze business requirements and apply them to practical software
- Be a problem solver
When people talk about skills a Software engineer should have, they often focus on technical skills such as programming languages and tech stacks. Often times communications skills and problem solving aren’t as heavily emphasized for Software engineers.
Remember, you aren’t just programming for 8 hours a day but are constantly communicating with other coworkers that aren’t technically savvy. You are constantly involve in the business and your knowledge in programming is valuable to bring business ideas to life.
At the end of the day, every business has a technical problem and it’s up to you use your programming skills to solve them. It is key to becoming an all-around programmer.
Work Setting
Software engineering is one of the more unique professions because you are in complete control of your life. Your skills are in-demand, your work setting can be anywhere and you are paid well. Actually, you really can do whatever you want!
Should you be required to work on-site, you’ll mostly likely be in a cozy, well air-conditioned office. However If you’re employed by a consulting firm, you’ll most likely be traveling to meet with clients.
If you’re able to work remotely,
Software engineers typically work 8 hours a day. However, it doesn’t mean you’ll be coding for 8 hours straight. You’ll be in meetings with your teammates or with business owners to discuss how to implement business strategies.
What do Software Engineers do?
Software engineers don’t just program all day. Additionally they are expected to be excellent problem solvers. They use their technical knowledge to pin point problems businesses have and propose solutions.
As a Software engineer, you have a rare ability to be involve in all aspects of the company from the business level all the way to the technical level.
Getting into Software engineering can be difficult if you’re just starting out. Check out my other posts to where I discuss how I became a Software Engineer without degree. If you’re looking into a bootcamp, I go over if coding bootcamps are worth it.
Thanks and happy programming!
-Bao