Though software engineers tend to have a minimum of
a degree in computer science or electronic engineering, as many as 1 in 5 are self-taught coders.
Software engineers, also sometimes known as software developers, apply
mathematical analysis and the principles of computer science to design, develop
and debug computer programs to meet a variety of business and corporate
requirements using the principles of software engineering.
Software Engineers
are responsible for creating the many types of software programmes or software
tools, such as middleware, bare metal/firmware, embedded software, operating
systems, network control, and business applications, whereas software
developers tend to use tools to build software for products such as apps.
A Software Engineer is generally involved with
software development, but very few software developers are engineers. The
difference between software engineering and software development is one often
oversees the engineering while the other tends to focus on creating functional
programs.
Despite overall recruitment activity declining
during the pandemic, there is a rising demand for engineers making
a software engineer career path an extremely attractive one. A software
engineer will work in a constantly evolving environment with the ever-growing
complexity of technology. Demand has been growing exponentially as billions of
physical devices around the globe are connected to the internet (IoT).
These digitally intelligent devices collect and
share data, enabling many industries to become technology-driven. Here are the
five key skills you need to succeed as a software engineer.
Coding
Generally coming from a computer science
background, proficiency in coding languages such as C#, C and C++ are likely to
be skills outlined on many software engineers’ curricula vitae. Being
proficient in computer programming is essential for designing software and
testing the systems built by others, meaning that software engineers tend to be
fluent in at least one coding language. Professionals who stand out to
employers are those who understand several languages or who are well-versed in
structured programming languages which have several similarities. e.g. C++ grew
from C.
Software engineers who want to diversify and build
their language expertise should consider learning Python, PHP, Tcl, Java and/or
JavaScript which are currently heralded as some of the best programming
languages to learn. In fact, JavaScript steals the top spot with 73% of developers revealing they have
knowledge of the computer programming language.
However, success in a software engineering career
can require more than just a great coding ability.
Problem-solving
Problem-solving is a typical talent found in a
software engineer’s skill set, they tend to be investigative and inquisitive
individuals. It is considered a soft skill that is inherent rather than learnt
but with time senior software engineers can easily hone this talent. Though
it’s an essential skill for software engineers, SHRM’s 2019 State of the Workplace found
that it is one of the top skills that today’s workforce lacks with a total of
37% failing to show evidence of it. The first step of problem-solving is
to define the issue. Software engineers will draw on their scientific and
mathematical knowledge to arrive at a conclusion. Combing both critical
thinking and creativity, these computer scientists analyse data to identify the
scope of problems and isolate invalid software models. Software engineers who
demonstrate strong problem-solving skills stand themselves in good stead when
looking to take the next step in their career.
Attention
to detail
Whether they’re engineering AI for the cyber security market, control applications for special-purpose machinery,
sophisticated algorithms, device drivers for semiconductors, or working
on “DSP” for world-class audio systems, software engineers will need to be
methodical and able to demonstrate great attention for detail. They must be
meticulous in their coding, testing, and have an eye for identifying bugs to
fix these issues. Analytical and detail-oriented individuals tend to produce
more accurate programmes and code – something which is extremely important in
software engineering today.
Teamwork
Aside from having a passion for software
programming, software engineers must also be able to work well in a team. The
creation of software systems can be a solitary task but overcome challenges on
a project and devising solutions is key. Software engineers must collaborate
and communicate their thought processes. A software engineer's job is to solve
problems and to create a superb product, not just to write as many amazing
lines of code as possible. Though software engineering qualifications and
experience using Linux are usually required, teamwork skills are what makes
software engineers indispensable.
Leadership
As employees progress from junior or graduate
software engineers to senior roles in an organisation, they will need to show
strong delegation skills whilst ensuring that concepts, architecture, and
solutions are innovative, high-quality, and cost-effective. Good leadership
skills will help software engineers liaise between external customers and
internal departments and ensure that the product design process is run
smoothly. Evidencing this skill is key when mapping out a software engineer
career path.
Find
your next Software Engineer with Redline
Redline have provided exceptional professional
talent for the European Technology industries since 1982. Our team includes
engineers themselves and recruitment professionals with many years’ experience
in software engineering, meaning we’re able to provide the knowledge, contacts
and support you need. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the engineering and technical sector, and our consultants are always up-to-date on the latest market trends.
We offer both contract and permanent roles and we
are currently recruiting software engineers to join diverse and dynamic teams.
View our current software jobs or quick send your CV to hear about our latest
job opportunities.