Software engineer
A software engineer is responsible for the design and implementation of a variety of software solutions. They might be involved in the design and testing of anything from computers games and business applications, to operating systems and advanced software for the control of highly technical hardware and equipment. Once the system had been fully designed software engineers then test, debug, and maintain the systems.
The work undertaken by software engineers is generally of a highly complex and technical nature, and involves the application of computer science and mathematics in an environment which is constantly evolving as a result of technological advances.
Depending on the type of organisation, software engineers can become either systems or applications specialists.
They increasingly need to have knowledge of a variety of computer programming languages and applications; this is due to the wide variety of work that they can be involved in.
Software engineering is one of the most popular professions in IT in terms of the numbers employed.
Typical work activities will usually include some or all of the following:
Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a degree in a computer-related or business discipline may improve your chances, for example:
Many of the larger graduate recruiters are happy to take trainees from any discipline, a minimum of a 2.1 is usually expected, although, on occasion, a 2.2 may be accepted if accompanied by exceptional A-level grades. Most employers, particularly smaller employers, generally favour degrees of a computing, scientific or numerate nature. Work experience would be an added bonus.
A postgraduate IT conversion course, whilst not essential, could be useful for graduates from non-relevant subjects, although many employers will be more interested in aptitude for programming than in an additional qualification.
If possible, try to gain some work experience in this area. Experience can be gained through placements or a year in industry.
Alternative ways of getting experience could be through voluntary work, an internship or summer vacation programme. If you have any contacts within the industry these could be useful. Employers do recognise relevant work experience and it can help with your application.
Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
A second language can strengthen your application. Entry is fairly competitive.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
Large graduate employers provide training in the form of a structured programme, where you will gain experience in a number of team-related projects in different work areas. Most companies will offer ongoing training, whether it is in-house or through external providers.
If you are self-employed, or employed by a smaller employer, training might not be available, and you will need to consider the cost and time implications of taking responsibility for your own training opportunities.
Other professional qualifications are available through the BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) . The Chartered Institute for IT can also help by providing information and guidance to members on recognising and planning learning needs and developing areas of expertise. The Institution of Analysts and Programmers (IAP) also offers up-to-date information on training and relevant industry-recognised qualifications.
e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology has developed the e-skills Professional Programme, which is modular and covers areas such technical, business, project management and communication skills. The aim of the programme is to provide new graduate IT professionals with high quality training during the early years of their careers, regardless of their background.
SFIA Foundation (Skills Framework for the Information Age) was formed in order to allow a common reference point for the identification of the skills needed to develop the use of ICT. Employers and IT professionals can use this framework as a skills development tool and to identify career development opportunities.
As a software engineer, your immediate prospects (including opportunities for travel, training and extra responsibilities) will depend on the size and type of the organisation for which you work.
Experienced software engineers may move into more senior roles as senior software engineers/lead software engineers overseeing teams of other software engineers. They may also move into project manager roles, supervising the completion of projects by multidisciplinary teams within a specific timeframe and to budget. Those with experience will also have more opportunities to work abroad, overseeing projects.
Software engineers often move into IT consultancy roles. The more experience you have, the easier it usually is to move into this kind of work. Consultancy will require mobility but is generally better paid and gives you more flexibility to work on a variety of projects.
Consultants can become a partner or own their own consultancy business.
Experienced software engineers with industry and consultancy experience, published work, and appropriate academic credentials (PhD) can go into research, teaching and lecturing. Gaining assistant professorship, professorship, then associate professorship is the usual route. (Academic salaries in the USA are comparatively better than those in the UK).
Both the BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) and the Institution of Analysts and Programmers (IAP) provide up-to-date information on career moves and areas of development.
e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology undertakes an annual survey on trends in demand for specific programming skills, which is summarised on their website. IT Jobs Watch also provides information on careers and skills in demand.
Software engineers work within a diverse range of organisations. Some software engineers may work in an IT company and specialise in one area, such as web design and internet solutions; others may focus on entertainment and educational software, such as computer games or multimedia training/e-learning.
The range of sectors in which a software engineer may be employed is very broad and includes:
Recruitment agencies commonly handle vacancies and there are numerous specialist IT recruitment agencies - check out the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) to search for agencies by type of vacancy and location.
Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.
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