Engineering - Software
How would you like to design and test computer games for a living? Does the idea of using your expertise to devise business applications and software solutions appeal to you?
A career in the fast-moving industry of software engineering involves using computer science and mathematics to develop software for entertainment and business needs. Engineers in this sector are sometimes tasked with designing computer operating systems or software to control highly advanced hardware such as automatons. They are also employed to implement new systems, complete testing, carrying out maintenance and update systems and software.
It is one of the most popular careers in IT and the technical expertise of software engineers is highly valued by many industries. The sector is growing and evolving all the time so people working in this industry need to keep up to date with developments and have knowledge of a variety of computer coding and programming languages and applications.
Software engineers are often based in an office or computer science laboratory, but remote working is becoming more common in this sector. They tend to work normal office hours but may be required to work longer hours to meet deadlines. Sometimes software engineers are required to work weekends and evenings to complete testing and debugging, and in some cases they may work on-call shifts to tackle any problems that arise.
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The starting salary for a software engineer is around £27,000 per year, rising to between £35,500 and £38,700 with experience. Senior software engineers earn up to £50,000 per year or more with some employers offering bonuses and incentives.
A software engineering, computer engineering or computer science degree is required for a role in software engineering. The amount of software engineering study in the degree programme will determine how suitable you are for the position.
Technical competency and knowledge of computer programming and various applications are necessary for a career in software engineering. Excellent analytical, problem-solving skills and numeracy skills are important, as is the ability to work to tight project deadlines and communicate effectively with clients and co-workers. It will also help if you are able to get to grips with new technology fast and have a good understanding of the current technological issues and trends.
