How to Become a Software Engineer

Software engineers design and create the computer software many of us use on our laptops for work, play, and school. Some software engineers specialize and work on games and other mobile applications used on smartphones or other handheld devices such as pads, e-readers, and tablets.

A software engineer is responsible for building software architecture and writing much of the supporting code. They often test software in various stages of development to "bug hunt" and look for errors, so the final product is as clean and efficient as possible. In addition, these engineers will follow the entire lifecycle of a software product, making sure it still runs as designed and fixing any bugs long after it's been distributed to consumers.

Software engineers shouldn't be confused with software developers, though one career may transition to the other. A software developer works with a client to determine their unique requirements when they need software created. A developer may have a broad understanding of engineering fundamentals to help a client determine the feasibility of what's needed. However, they will turn the project over to a software team they oversee that creates the product to specification. A software engineer is a member of that team and is responsible for building the infrastructure and writing much of the code that supports the client's software needs.

Many future software engineers earn their degrees directly in software engineering or a related STEM field. However, it is possible to become a software engineer without a degree. Many professionals enroll in software engineering training programs at technical schools or online bootcamps to gain skills and earn certificates. Others may learn software engineering from scratch through their own research and study and work on volunteer projects or their own endeavors.

However, if you are entirely new to the field and don't have any formal training or previous college experience, the best way to become a software engineer may still be to earn a bachelor's degree, which many employers require at a minimum.

In general, there are five steps to becoming a software engineer:

Qualifications will depend on the employer, but you generally need some formal training — most likely a degree — in computer science or a related STEM field and relevant work experience. In addition, employers like to see applicants who have incorporated continuous learning into their careers to keep up to date with the latest technologies to meet industry standards.

Employers typically want their applicants to have previous experience in software development, software architecture, and software engineering. Data analytics company Emsi Burning Glass reveals some of the more specific technical and soft skills often requested in software engineer job postings.

It can take several months to several years to become a software engineer depending on the educational path you take. A bootcamp or certificate program may last three to 12 months. An associate degree will take a full-time student about two years to complete, and a bachelor's may take up to four years. Earning a master's degree in software engineering or another computer science discipline may take full-time students an additional two years to complete.

You may be able to start your career while you are still in school. Many programs require students to complete an internship that builds practical experience and may lead to a job after graduation. Your school's career center, a program advisor, or an instructor may also be able to help you navigate your job search in a way that's productive. Career networking sites such as LinkedIn can also help you explore job openings and connect with others in your field for informational interviews and career insight. If you are in a bootcamp or other online training program, you may be able to participate in a group project to build skills and network for job opportunities.

Kris Silvey has worked as a software engineer for over nine years and is currently a senior software developer at Craft Designs, Inc. He offers this advice when looking for your first job. "Remember that your first job is likely not your last job. If you're having a hard time getting your dream job, then just try to get a job somewhat related to your field. Any amount of experience will put you ahead of the curve when it comes to future applications."

As you start a career, it's also imperative to never lose sight of the reputation you are building and how critical it can be to land a job. "Try to never burn professional bridges," Silvey advises, "Your professional community is more connected than you might imagine and news of misdeeds and work ethic (good or bad) will be shared."

Careers

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software engineers earn a $105,310 annual median salary, with the lowest 10% earning less than $65,210 and the highest earning over $170,100. Location, experience, and the company's size may determine salary. Software engineering is often the first step to becoming a software developer; these professionals earn a $110,140 annual median salary. Jobs in the software publishing industry pay a $124,050 median yearly wage which is the highest of all sectors employing software professionals.

Job Outlook

The job outlook is strong for software engineers and is expected to grow 19% through 2030. As technology evolves, the demand for software engineering expertise is expected to increase. As a result, the BLS anticipates even higher job growth for software developers, analysts, and testers at 22%.