Software engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They may specialise in areas such as web development, mobile apps, artificial intelligence, and embedded systems, depending on the interests and needs of their employer or client. The role often requires a balance of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication.
If you enjoy being challenged and engaging your analytical and creative skills in technology this could be the career for you.
OnSecurity, the leading penetration testing vendor has put this career guide together to give you full insight into what software engineering involves, the skills and qualifications required and what to expect.
What is a software engineer?
A software engineer creates computer software and solves problems using code and programming languages, as well as writing their own programmes to assist businesses in improving their processes. They focus on developing and maintaining solutions including software programmes, web applications, and mobile apps.
The dynamic skills of a software engineer mean their work can span across various disciplines, and the job title is often used interchangeably with ‘software developer’ or ‘programmer’. The versatility means jobs can span across multiple sectors: from finance to healthcare to construction. Software engineers are constantly in demand and are often offered higher salaries as a result.
Skills
Outside of their technical abilities, software engineers need varied and developed skills such as:
- Problem-solving skills: Ability to break down complex issues and find innovative solutions
- Critical thinking: Analytical approach to evaluating solutions and making decisions
- Creativity: Innovative thinking for developing new features or solving unique problems
Employer Demand
Almost all companies, from the largest blue-chip companies like Google and Amazon to small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) need software engineers to manage projects and assist development.
According to UCAS, there were over 300,000 jobs in programming and software development available last year and that demand is expected to continue growing.
Salary
As of May 2024, the average base salary of a software engineer was £47,126, according to Indeed*.
Below is a list of average salaries in the highest-paying cities for software engineers:
| City | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| London | £57,385 |
| Cambridge | £48,534 |
| Manchester | £46,964 |
| Liverpool | £43,414 |
| Nottingham | £42,372 |
[Source: Indeed.com, May 2024]
Ways to become a software engineer
Secure a university degree
The most traditional way to become a software engineer is through an undergraduate or master’s degree in computer science, or a similar IT-based degree, such as software development, cybersecurity or information technology. Although a master’s degree is not an essential requirement to work as a software engineer, it provides an opportunity to fully develop a range of both theoretical and practical skills, such as programming, coding languages, and hardware construction, which will impress employers.
Alternative qualifications
Diplomas
Entrance to software engineering without a degree is possible, but your application will likely be more appealing if you’re able to prove your extensive knowledge in another form. If you’ve opted against the university route, you’ll need to engage in other courses, such as diplomas or BTECs, to ensure you are well-versed in a range of coding languages and familiar with the technicalities of software engineering.
Online Certifications
Similarly, it is also possible to obtain online certifications to specialise in particular fields. Specialised sites offer professional training, which involve working remotely in a more independent form of study, nonetheless ending with an exam to qualify. The benefits of such a route include a more flexible study schedule, as well as the opportunity to specialise early and hone knowledge and expertise in one particular field to impress employers.
Work experience
Gaining hands-on experience within the tech industry will also put you in a desirable position: it’ll give you the opportunity to experience the practicalities of the job and gain some real-life experience in the software industry. Look for apprenticeship or internship opportunities in a related field, for example working as a gaming programmer apprentice, or an assistant software technician can give you invaluable experience.
Career Progression
Depending on the person’s field of interest, software engineers have a wide breadth of options as their career progresses. As well as substantial salary increases to look forward to. Future engineers can choose from routes in management, security, data, web development, and gaming, to name a few.
If this professional trajectory seems like an appropriate fit for you, why not take a look at OnSecurity’s website to learn more about cybersecurity and pentesting, and start your journey into your career: https://www.onsecurity.io/careers/
Sources
- Indeed, May 2024. https://uk.indeed.com/career/software-engineer/salaries
