what is a software engineer?
As a software engineer, you work under a branch of computer science. You're involved in the evolution and construction of software. This can be related to a computer's operating system (OS) or an application-based program, such as a browser or database. On top of this, you help create programs for mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Software engineers are subject-matter experts (SMEs) regarding programming languages and their respective systems. As a result, you produce customized products for different clients. With your engineering skills, the goal is to generate a program's solid foundation before the project progresses.
As a software engineer, you may work independently, within a team or with clients. In many cases, you're part of a group that works on different products for one or more organizations. Therefore, you switch modes regularly to accommodate everyone's needs.
The career goes beyond working for a computer company or software firm. Software engineers are a necessity in most business sectors. Development organizations often hire software engineers to assist customers. You could also be employed by manufacturing, finance or agricultural firms to develop programs that simplify processes within these business sectors.
Would working as a software engineer suit your passion for design and technology? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a software engineer role.
software engineer jobsaverage software engineer salary
According to Job Bank, software engineers receive an average salary of $127,628 per year, equalling an hourly rate of $65.45. In an entry-level position, you start with a salary of $91,680 annually, while experienced software engineers take home over $162,806 annually.
what factors affect the salary of a software engineer?
As a software engineer, your earnings mainly depend on educational qualifications and experience. When you have less than five years of experience, you earn less than software engineers with additional years of experience. However, being conversant with the changing technological demands improves your earnings significantly.
The location can also influence your salary. For instance, working in Nova Scotia and Quebec attracts a higher average salary. You will earn an annual salary of over $150,000. Working in urban areas or major cities usually increases your earning potential, especially in innovation and technology hubs with a high demand for software engineers.
types of software engineers
There are two main roles in software engineering:
- application software engineer: your job is to create new software or adapt existing products for businesses and other enterprises. You do this by analyzing your clients' needs. Sometimes, you are responsible for installing and maintaining an application throughout its lifetime.
- systems software engineer: as a systems engineer, you develop programs for an organization's computer systems. In other words, you create logical operations to help devices work together. For instance, you construct application programming interfaces (APIs) that link two machines or different programs. Overall, you develop items that maintain speed, productivity and security.
working as a software engineer
If you have an interest in the tech industry, working as a software engineer is a great opportunity. Check out the duties and work environment associated with the role.
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what does a software engineer do?
Software engineer responsibilities are unique to individual companies, but the typical roles include:
- identifying and analyzing user requirements: as a software engineer, you outline the process and develop a plan for creating an application. That means you meet with the client to discuss specific details. You gather information on the functions and features the client needs.
- writing code: your role involves writing code to develop applications for devices. For instance, you can write code for Android applications or games used in software platforms. You also use your programming knowledge to ensure that computer systems communicate with each other to achieve a specific function.
- testing programs: after software or application development, you test and evaluate its functionality before releasing it to the market. You also analyze the requirements and tweak the software as required.
- updating and upgrading current software: as a software engineer, you release software updates by testing the existing applications for malfunctions and rectifying the problems. You also optimize software for speed and scalability.
- maintain software functionality: aside from creating new software, you perform various tasks to maintain its functionality. Your duties include troubleshooting software issues and developing updates that align with the company standards. You work with clients to ensure the product meets their requirements.
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work environment of a software engineer
As a software engineer, you work in an office environment. Since you handle several tasks simultaneously, you often access a desktop or laptop through multiple screens. This gives you the ability to examine all program angles. To handle the compilation and testing of large programs, the computers you work with contain powerful central processing units (CPUs) and a large amount of random-access memory (RAM). Most employers provide a creative work environment to promote the flow of ideas and facilitate brainstorming sessions.
Software engineers also work remotely. When you work remotely, your setup and equipment vary. In a home office, you can work on a single laptop or use multiple screens. Sometimes, companies rent equipment for remote-working software engineers.
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who are your colleagues?
As a software engineer, you collaborate with multiple professionals to create functional software. Depending on the project you are working on, you work with developers, web developers and software developers. When you work with a team, you collaborate with scrum masters or project managers. You also interact with marketing managers and business systems analysts to understand user requirements.
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software engineer work schedule
Software engineers typically go to work between 7-9 am and finish at 4-5 pm. To prevent burnout, many companies often deter people in this profession from working more than nine hours per day. However, some software engineers work late evenings or on weekends to complete projects. There are rare occasions when you work 12 hours or more; for example, if you have approaching deadlines or encounter program-related issues that may result in the organization losing productivity or income. Part-time roles and freelancing opportunities are common for software engineers. You can also work on short-term projects for consultancy firms.
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career opportunities as a software engineer
Your skills will become more important as technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) become a regular part of the private and professional sectors. You can specialize in applications or systems engineering from your software engineer position. With experience, you may advance to top roles in the organization, such as senior software engineer. Alternatively, gain certifications and experience to propel yourself into roles like project or systems manager. A career as a software engineer gives you the flexibility and mobility to create an appealing employment experience.
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advantages of finding a job as a software engineer through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
software engineer skills and education
The educational requirements to begin a software engineering career include:
- university degree: to work as a software engineer in Canada, you require a bachelor’s degree in computer systems engineering, software engineering or computer science. You can also complete a college program in computer science to get an entry-level position. A master’s or doctoral degree is usually required if you have a degree in a different course.
- work experience: you require work experience to work as a software engineer. Gain experience through boot camps and internship opportunities. Entry-level positions in the tech field also prepare you for the role.
- professional certifications and licensing: to practice as a professional engineer in Canada, you require licensing by a territorial or provincial association of professional engineers. You are eligible for a licence when you obtain an accredited software engineering degree, complete up to four years of work experience and pass the professional practice examination. In Alberta, you can get a licence from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta, while in Nova Scotia, the regulatory body is Engineers Nova Scotia.
competencies and characteristics of software engineers
A career in software engineering requires technical know-how and soft skills to succeed. Some of the qualities you need include:
- coding and programming skills: writing code is a big part of software engineering. Hence, you require proficiency in front-end and back-end coding languages like HTML, CSS, Javascript, Ruby, Java, C++ and Python. You can attend programming boot camps or other training courses to improve your coding skills.
- team skills: as a software engineer, you collaborate with other professionals and liaise with stakeholders. Maintaining and developing software programs also requires input from various professionals. Hence, working well with others to achieve organizational goals is important. You will learn to compromise and communicate with others when working on projects together.
- problem-solving ability: as a software engineer, you need prowess in identifying and solving problems that arise in computer systems or applications. You should be curious and analytical to develop creative system solutions.
- attentiveness to details: software engineers need to be meticulous. Detail-oriented skills help you code and test software projects. You also require precision to meet user requirements and ensure the software performs as expected.
FAQs
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a software engineer.
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are software engineers in demand in Canada?
With companies relying on technology to provide value to clients, software engineers are in high demand in Canada. Provinces with technology hubs rely on software engineers to maintain software applications and create operating systems. Your design and development skills are valuable, and many companies rely on your expertise to maintain software applications.
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how much do software engineers earn?
Software engineering is relatively lucrative, with promising career progression and many growth opportunities. Your average salary as a software engineer is $127,628 per year. In an entry-level position, your earnings start at $91,680 annually. With experience, your earnings increase gradually, and you can earn over $162,806 yearly.
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what skills do you need to be a software engineer?
As a software engineer, you require technical skills to accomplish your tasks and create functional operating systems. Aside from coding and technical expertise, you require personal attributes to excel in the role. Your teamwork and collaboration skills are handy when working with other professionals. Problem-solving skills help you troubleshoot problems in software and systems.
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is it challenging to be a software engineer?
Being a software engineer is a challenging career, especially since you need a background in coding or programming. You can ease into the career by completing boot camps and using online tools to improve your coding skills. Continuous re-skilling and certification also improve your skills.
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how long does it take to become a software engineer?
You require a bachelor's degree in software engineering or computer science to become a software engineer. The course takes four years of full-time study. You also need a few years to get your engineering licence.
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how do I find a job as a software engineer?
Finding a job near you as a software engineer is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
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