Description of Software Engineer
A software engineer is a person who applies the principles of software engineering to the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of computer software.
Prior to the mid-1970s, software practitioners generally called themselves computer scientists, computer programmers or software developers, regardless of their actual jobs. Many people prefer to call themselves software developer and programmer, because most widely agree what these terms mean, while the exact meaning of software engineer is still being debated.
What Does a Software Engineer Do?
Computer software engineers apply engineering principles and systematic methods to develop programs and operating data for computers. If you have ever asked yourself, "What does a software engineer do?" note that daily tasks vary widely. Professionals confer with system programmers, analysts, and other engineers to extract pertinent information for designing systems, projecting capabilities, and determining performance interfaces. Computer software engineers also analyze user needs, provide consultation services to discuss design elements, and coordinate software installation. Designing software systems requires professionals to consider mathematical models and scientific analysis to project outcomes.
KEY HARD SKILLS
Hard skills refers to practical, teachable competencies that an employee must develop to qualify for a particular position. Examples of hard skills for software engineers include learning to code with programming languages such as Java, SQL, and Python.
- Java: This programming language produces software on multiple platforms without the need for recompilation. The code runs on nearly all operating systems including Mac OS or Windows. Java uses syntax from C and C++ programming. Browser-operated programs facilitate GUI and object interaction from users.
- JavaScript: This scripting programming language allows users to perform complex tasks and is incorporated in most webpages. This language allows users to update content, animate images, operate multimedia, and store variables. JavaScript represents one of the web's three major technologies.
- SQL: Also known as Structured Query Language, SQL queries, updates, modifies, deletes, and inserts data. To achieve this, SQL uses a set number of commands. This computer language is standard for the manipulation of data and relational database management. Professionals use SQL to manage structured data where relationships between variables and entities exist.
- C++: Regarded as an object-oriented, general purpose programming language, C++ uses both low and high-level language. Given that virtually all computers contain C++, computer software engineers must understand this language. C++ encompases most C programs without switching the source code line. C++ primarily manipulates text, numbers, and other computer-capable tasks.
- C#: Initially developed for Microsoft, this highly expressive program language is more simple in comparison to other languages, yet it includes components of C++ and Java. Generic types and methods provide additional safety and increased performance. C# also allows professionals to define iteration behavior, while supporting encapsulation, polymorphism, and inheritance.
- Python: This high-level programing language contains dynamic semantics, structures, typing, and binding that connect existing components; however, the Python syntax is easy to learn with no compilation stage involved, reducing program maintenance and enhancing productivity. Python also supports module and package use, which allows engineers to use the language for varying projects.
Programming languages comprise a software engineer's bread and butter, with nearly as many options to explore as there are job possibilities. Examples include Ruby, an object-oriented language that works in blocks; Rust, which integrates with other languages for application development; PHP, a web development script that integrates with HTML; and Swift, which can program apps for all Apple products. Learn more about programming languages here.
KEY SOFT SKILLS
While hard skills like knowledge of programming languages are essential, software engineers must also consider which soft skills they may need to qualify for the position they seek. Soft skills include individual preferences and personality traits that demonstrate how an employee performs their duties and fits into a team.
- Communication: Whether reporting progress to a supervisor, explaining a product to a client, or coordinating with team members to work on the same product, software engineers must be adept at communicating via email, phone, and in-person meetings.
- Multitasking: Software development can require engineers to split attention across different modules of the same project, or switch easily between projects when working on a deadline or meeting team needs.
- Organization: To handle multiple projects through their various stages and keep track of details, software engineers must demonstrate a certain level of organization. Busy supervisors oversee entire teams and need to access information efficiently at a client's request.
- Attention to Detail: Concentration plays a critical role for software engineers. They must troubleshoot coding issues and bugs as they arise, and keep track of a host of complex details surrounding multiple ongoing projects.
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