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Software developers, also known as computer programmers or software developers, design, install, test and maintain software systems used by commercial and manufacturing organisations in their IT systems.

In the past, systems were often replaced due to rapid developments in technology, which was time-consuming and expensive. Now, more often, 'off-the-shelf' software packages are integrated into an existing system, 'bolting together' existing software products, so only the code to link them together has to be created. This requires thorough knowledge of available software packages and programming languages, together with the ability to provide appropriate interfaces with which to integrate them.

To install a new system or update an existing one, software engineers must gain a thorough understanding of the user's business and information needs, examine any existing system, decide on recommendations and present a proposal to the user, and cost the proposal accurately. 

The software engineer then leads a team, which produces detailed design specifications, designs the software, writes and documents the programming code, and tests the product in real situations.

Entry level

The usual qualification is a degree or HND/HNC, or substantial experience and proven ability in programming. A postgraduate IT conversion course is useful if your degree or HND/HNC does not have significant IT content.

Some people do start as trainee programmers, with A levels/H grades or equivalent qualifications. It is sometimes possible to start in basic computing work and progress to become a software engineer. There is also a Graduate Apprenticeship in IT.

It helps to get some experience before looking for work, perhaps gained through course requirements or project work with employers. Smaller employers generally require knowledge of specific programming languages, software or operating systems.

The selection procedure may include programming aptitude tests.

The degree subjects usually preferred are computer science or software developing, electronics, physics, maths and electrical engineering. A level/H grade maths is often required for these courses.

Making the grade

Many employers provide training that can lead to professional qualifications, for instance from the British Computer Society, the Institute for the Management of Information Systems or The National Computing Centre. You can also work for professional certification from companies such as Microsoft.

Promotion is normally to senior or principal software engineer and then to project manager. Experienced managers can also work in IT training and technical writing.

With approximately three years' experience, it is possible to work freelance, often through an agency, or as a self-employed contractor or consultant.

Personal qualities

You would need to be passionate about IT and up to date with developments in this rapidly changing field. You should be strong at maths, with a logical and practical approach to problem solving. In addition, you would have to listen to the requirements and ideas of others and to accommodate these in your plans. With tight deadlines to meet, you would need the ability to prioritise effectively.

Looking ahead

Software engineers usually specialise in business, scientific, engineering or microcomputer applications. They work across commerce and industry, public services, utilities, defence and research. There are opportunities with computer and software manufacturers, IT and management consultancies, the Armed Forces and defence establishments, and other organisations that use computers.

Although there is a shortage of people with the appropriate skills, entry is fairly competitive. Organisations are increasingly contracting development work to firms of IT consultants.

Alternative suggestions

Other possibilities might include graphic designer, multimedia designer, systems analyst or webmaster.

Take-home pay

Software engineers are usually well paid, with graduate starting salaries ranging from around £19,000 to £35,000 (Earnings at the higher end relate to work in management consultancy). This should rise as you gain experience to £30,000 to £80,000, if you are reliable and can produce useful results. The size of installation, location and the nature of the employer's business will affect salary levels. Computer manufacturers, software houses, as well as the finance centre of London, usually pay higher salaries.

Contracting and freelance work can be more highly paid due to specialist skills.

Effects

The normal working week is 37 to 40 hours, but overtime and weekend working may be needed to deal with deadlines and emergency problem solving. In sectors such as finance and consultancies, longer working hours may be required.

Sources of information

e-skills UK: www.e-skills.com/itcompass

Skillset: www.skillset.org

British Computer Society: www.bcs.org.uk

British Interactive Media Association: www.bima.co.uk

Institute for the Management of Information Systems: www.imis.org.uk

National Computing Centre: www.ncc.co.uk (please note: NCC Education is a separate organisation).

NCC Education: www.nccedu.com