Software Developer

Job Description

Software Developers are often needed throughout the lifecycle of a piece of software, updating, patching, and repairing code, whether the task is to develop an app or an underlying operating system. Some Software Developers work with specific platforms, developing apps for systems like Java, JavaScript, C#, and Python. In some cases, Software Developers write code themselves, though they also can work closely with computer programmers who write the actual software code based on the developer’s instructions.

In addition to hard skills like expertise in various programming languages, a Software Developer also needs soft skills like communication, teamwork, and critical thinking. Many Software Developers work in teams, so the ability to communicate ideas to other members of the team — as well as to customers, non-technical colleagues, and managers — is critical. Since a Software Developer is also often responsible for repairing issues with software, they also should be able to think through the underlying causes of those problems as well as the solutions for them.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, test and implement new software programs
• Modify, expand and update applications
• Develop software prototypes
• Facilitate root cause analysis of system issues
• Compile timely, comprehensive and accurate documentation and reports as requested

Education and Background

A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related discipline is strongly preferred for this position.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Extremely detail-oriented
• Ability to work independently and as part of a development team
• Several years of programming experience
• Proficient in languages and frameworks such as C#/.Net, Javascript, Java, C++, and SQL Server

Compensation

According to Payscale the median annual salary of a Software Developer with

1 Year of Experience:

• Orlando, Florida: $95,000
• Tampa, Florida: $91,000
• Jacksonville, Florida: $100,000
• Miami, Florida: $90,000
• Atlanta, Georgia: $100,000
• Chicago, Illinois: $103,000
• Houston, Texas: $90,000
• Los Angeles, California: $100,000
• New York City, New York: $100,000
• Seattle, Washington: $100,000
• Overall: $99,000

5 Years of Experience:

• Orlando, Florida: $110,000
• Tampa, Florida: $100,000
• Jacksonville, Florida: $114,000
• Miami, Florida: $104,000
• Atlanta, Georgia: $108,000
• Chicago, Illinois: $120,000
• Houston, Texas: $120,000
• Los Angeles, California: $120,000
• New York City, New York: $120,000
• Seattle, Washington: $115,000
• Overall: $118,000

Similar Job Titles

• Developer
• Software Engineer
• Senior Software Engineer
• Programmer
• Coder
• Architect
• Software Architect
• Front-End Web Developer
• Java Developer
• IT Project Manager
• Web Developer

Career Path

A Software Developer needs to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Students are encouraged to pursue internships with software companies while they are in college to gain some real-world experience in the field. Some companies prefer applicants for more senior Software Developer positions to have a master’s degree.

While Software Developers don’t always write code, having a strong background in computer programming often makes a candidate for a Software Developer position more attractive to employers. Also, knowledge of the industry for which you want to develop software is essential. For example, potential Software Developers who want to work on software for e-commerce should know the online retail industry.

Software Developers can advance into positions like IT Project Manager or Computer and Information Systems Manager. In those roles, they oversee and guide the software development process, sometimes supervising a team of Software Developers. Software Developers who want to move into management roles should develop soft skills like relationship building, motivating and influencing others, and communication.

Position Trends

The need for Software Developers in the coming years is expected to increase. It’s one of the fastest-growing jobs in the IT field. According to the trade publication Tech Times, Software Developers should look at solutions involving artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies are being adopted across industries very quickly; more companies are looking to AI software to make better use of the data they collect.

Increased demand for the Internet of Things (IoT) is another trend for Software Developers to watch in the coming years. Devices that can connect to the internet, from smart appliances to wearable technology, are becoming more and more popular. Many software companies are expected to begin specializing in programming for the IoT sector, so Software Developers who are knowledgeable in creating software for smart technology will be more in demand.

Another trend in the software development field in the coming years is the increased use of progressive web apps (PWAs). They’re a kind of website that functions like a mobile app but runs in a web browser. More companies are using them because it can save them money by not having to develop a mobile version of their websites or a mobile app. Instead, PWAs give companies the same benefits as a mobile app and offer faster load times and better functionality for customers.

Job Outlook

As we continue to rely on apps and smart devices for more aspects of daily life, the need for Software Developers to envision and create those applications and programs will only increase.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Software Developer field is expected to grow by 21 percent between 2018 and 2028. That’s much faster than average.

Typical Hours

The typical work hours in an office setting for a Software Developer are usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional work hours can be commonplace when approaching project deadlines.

Some Software Developers work remotely on a freelance basis, which allows them more freedom to set their own work hours.

Where You Can Find Jobs

• 4 Corner Resources
• Career Builder
• Glassdoor
• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Monster
• Zip Recruiter
• IT Career Finder

Are You Interested in Becoming a Software Developer?

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