Software Engineer: Empowering The World Through Codes

Software engineer is one of the most sought professionals in this digital age. Interested in becoming one? Find out more about software engineering in this article.

With almost every business sector undergoing digital transformation, more businesses are in need of specific software systems for specific purposes to keep the business thriving. This often left companies with options to build software from scratch to optimize the customized function. To be able to execute this, the role of software engineers is crucial.

In addition, KBV Research reported that the Asia Pacific Custom Software Development market would witness market growth of 20.9% CAGR during the forecast period of 2022-2028. This positive trend supports the fact that the demand for software engineers in the job market will keep increasing.

Software Engineer Job Overview

Software engineers’ job is mainly to build systems and software for various purposes. Other than that, software engineers also perform quality assurance tests, maintaining, and testing the software and systems.

Software engineers also not only work with codes. They work closely with project managers, UI/UX designers, data scientists, and subject-matter experts. A more experienced engineer may also work closely with clients to focus on system design.

Differences Between Software Engineer, Programmer, and Web Developer

Sometimes, the terms software engineer, programmer, and developer are used interchangeably. Xavier, a former Codecademy Senior Software Engineer, stated that some companies will indeed use different titles to refer to the same roles. However, there should be some notable differences. 

For instance, software engineers mostly work on computer systems as a whole, Xavier stated. In this sense, they are like the architect—they plan, design, and develop standalone programs and apps to help users and clients. Their work is not limited to just desktop programs, but also mobile and web apps.

On the other hand, programmers’ role is to write, analyze, and edit the codes, under the framework given by software engineers. Programmers are mostly focused on a specific part instead of overlooking the whole project.

Lastly, web developers are generally working on creating websites and browser apps. Their work includes designing interactive websites and building user-facing apps. As they mostly work on web apps, their scope of work is considered smaller than software engineers.

Software Engineer Job Description

Software engineers play a pivotal role in creating software applications that power businesses, organizations, and our daily lives. Their responsibilities encompass a broad spectrum and might differ depending on the industry. Even so, Indeed mentions that there are several typical responsibilities of a software engineer:

• Understanding and translating client and user requirements into functional software solutions
• Document the development process and create manuals for future maintenance and updates
• Maintain the system with timely updates to ensure seamless operations
• Troubleshoot programming and developmental errors
• Ensure the safety and security of software solutions and applications
• Train new members of the team

3 Types of Software Engineers

There are three primary categories of software engineers with various specializations, each catering to specific software development aspects. There are front-end engineers, back-end engineers, and full-stack engineers.

• Front-end engineers, as the name suggests, are responsible for building the interface that users see and interact with. Front-end engineers are responsible for making sure that users get a functional, intuitive, appealing, and seamless experience.
• Back-end engineers are responsible for things users cannot see on a website, like developing and maintaining databases and security. Back-end engineers are driving and ensuring the smooth functioning of software systems and operations. 
• Full-stack engineers work and have expertise in both the front-end and back-end of the system. Full-stack engineers usually work with all the platforms and systems used by front-end and back-end engineers and are capable of handling the entire software development lifecycle.

Software Engineer Skill Requirements

To become a successful software engineer, someone must have a strong foundation in mathematics, engineering principles, and programming skills, Harvard stated. However, contrary to popular belief, a degree in computer science or engineering-related fields is not really necessary. In this field, a solid skill set, the combination of technical proficiency and soft skills is more valuable than university credentials.

Here are several requirements that make up a skilled software engineer.

Fluency in Programming Language

To be a good software engineer, being fluent in computer languages is a must. The most common computer languages used in this field include C, C++, JavaScript, HTML, R, Python, and SQL. Depending on each role, there is no need to understand every computer language. For instance, web developers will mainly work in JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

Good Knowledge of Data Structure and Algorithms

Having a good understanding of different types of data structures helps in designing software programs. A strong mathematics foundation is useful in understanding and developing the required algorithms to build such software. Thus, it’s important for software engineers to have good knowledge of those aspects.

Agile Project Management Skill

Agile project management skill is an iterative approach to delivering a project throughout its life cycle. This kind of skill is useful in software development projects, APM stated, because it can increase predictability and control risk. An engineer who possesses this skill will be more likely to be promoted to a more senior-level role.

Good Understanding of Engineering Design Principles

To get a functional and effective output, software engineers need to have extensive knowledge of engineering design principles. Engineering design principles help engineers by providing a structured approach to creating a product, Neural Concept stated. It encompasses safety, functionality, good design, innovation, and sustainability.

Excellent Soft Skills

Soft skills are as important as technical skills. Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving are needed to develop a solution for the user's needs. Being able to work collaboratively is essential because software engineers often work in teams. Other than that, good communication skills are important to understanding a client's needs and relaying the requests to the team.

Next read: Soft Skills: The Key to Workplace Success

Advantages of a Software Engineering Career

In response to digitalization, software engineers are high in demand in a lot of business sectors. It means software engineers can now work in almost any industry, not only limited to tech companies. For instance, engineers are needed in the retail industry to build and maintain online shopping websites. This makes software engineering a promising career for approximately the next five years.

Software engineers are also some of the best-paid professionals in the tech world, Indeed further stated. Additionally, the rise of AI and machine learning technology also influences the demands of engineers, driving the salaries for these roles higher up. For instance, the salaries of software engineers in Singapore surged 7.6% to an all-time high in 2022, The Strait Times reported.

Final Thoughts

Working as a software engineer can offer a fulfilling and rewarding career path, also allowing someone to harness the power of code to solve real-world problems, help people, and make a positive impact on the world. 

If you are interested in getting a career in software engineering, you need to have dedication, perseverance, and a passion for innovation to succeed in your journey. It is important to keep learning, gain hands-on experience, and build a portfolio. Also, stay abreast of emerging technologies, trends, and best practices through online courses, workshops, and industry publications.

Next Read: 5 Things You Need to Know before Taking an Online Courses