Post job

What does an associate software engineer do?

Updated January 8, 2025
8 min read
Quoted expert
Frank McCown Ph.D.
What does an associate software engineer do

An associate software engineer is an individual who is responsible for improving existing software or designing new application software. Working under the supervision of a senior software engineer and together with a team of engineering professionals, associate software engineers must be able to code software and ensure that it can run with different types of technology. They must have the technical knowledge and expertise of commanding programming languages such as JAVA, HTML, and CSS. Associate software engineers are also required to assist the QA team in testing the software before it is released to the customers.

On this page

Associate software engineer responsibilities

Here are examples of responsibilities from real associate software engineer resumes:

  • Contribute to implementing microservices used to manage entities and maintain a synchronize state between supplier and distributor.
  • Grade homework papers and programs develop on HTML, JavaScript, JSP and XML.
  • Create web pages to store the Wiki information about the team using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
  • Utilize programming skills in PHP, HTML, MySQL and JavaScript.
  • Compile the code on both UNIX and Linux platforms and resolve the bugs.
  • Develop a web application independently using ASP.NET and integrate it with intuit QuickBooks payment API.
  • Handle assignments in developing UI pages using JSP, HTML, CSS and JavaScript technologies for modules in BDMS.
  • Used different user interface technologies JSP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for developing the GUI of the application.
  • Designed/Implement driver for PCI and USB base network cards on Linux platform.
  • Launch and track debug and release builds through the Jenkins web portal.
  • Used Kibana to generate visualization reports projecting the performance of the VMs.
  • Work on Java automate tools for the production deployments & SDLC relate knowledge base.
  • Develop code in Java which creates mapping in ElasticSearch even before data is indexed into.
  • Construct unit test cases at code level and in Jenkins to test for code coverage and efficiency.
  • Develop screens base on JQUERY to dynamically generate HTML and display the data to the client side.

Associate software engineer skills and personality traits

We calculated that 15% of Associate Software Engineers are proficient in Java, Python, and C++. They’re also known for soft skills such as Analytical skills, Communication skills, and Creativity.

We break down the percentage of Associate Software Engineers that have these skills listed on their resume here:

  • Java, 15%

    Inspired and guided over 40 coworkers to apply for java programming certification after achieving personal certification

  • Python, 9%

    Developed automated data analysis scripts in Python, increasing accuracy of results and reducing individual engineer analysis time.

  • C++, 8%

    Contributed expertise in Object Oriented Design and C++ development to design software for Naval Helicopter platforms within a team of engineers.

  • GIT, 5%

    Trained in SourceTree (GIT UI) & GIT for source code management/version control.

  • Object Oriented Programming, 5%

    Used ASP.NET Web Forms, Server Controls extensively following Object Oriented Programming Principles and Web Pages using ASP.NET and C#.

  • Linux, 4%

    Developed and ported to Linux, Upgrade Utility for VCS to enable version migration.

"java," "python," and "c++" are among the most common skills that associate software engineers use at work. You can find even more associate software engineer responsibilities below, including:

Analytical skills. One of the key soft skills for an associate software engineer to have is analytical skills. You can see how this relates to what associate software engineers do because "developers must analyze users’ needs and then design software to meet those needs." Additionally, an associate software engineer resume shows how associate software engineers use analytical skills: "overhauled three significant data warehouse applications for the search and visualization of criminal warrants, arrest records and employee data. "

Communication skills. Many associate software engineer duties rely on communication skills. "developers must be able to give clear instructions to others working on a project," so an associate software engineer will need this skill often in their role. This resume example is just one of many ways associate software engineer responsibilities rely on communication skills: "used java mail api for communication for sending updates to various other applications. "

Creativity. associate software engineers are also known for creativity, which are critical to their duties. You can see how this skill relates to associate software engineer responsibilities, because "developers are the creative minds behind new computer software." An associate software engineer resume example shows how creativity is used in the workplace: "designed automation for inventory report generation using ssis and ms sql server 2005. "

Detail oriented. associate software engineer responsibilities often require "detail oriented." The duties that rely on this skill are shown by the fact that "developers often work on many parts of an application or system at the same time and must therefore be able to concentrate and pay attention to detail." This resume example shows what associate software engineers do with detail oriented on a typical day: "utilize object-oriented programming concepts similar to java and c."

Interpersonal skills. Another crucial skill for an associate software engineer to carry out their responsibilities is "interpersonal skills." A big part of what associate software engineers relies on this skill, since "software developers must be able to work well with others who contribute to designing, developing, and programming successful software." How this skill relates to associate software engineer duties can be seen in an example from an associate software engineer resume snippet: "generated a map of interpersonal relationships from an xml file. "

Problem-solving skills. While "problem-solving skills" is last on this skills list, don't underestimate its importance to associate software engineer responsibilities. Much of what an associate software engineer does relies on this skill, seeing as "because developers are in charge of software from beginning to end, they must be able to solve problems that arise throughout the design process." Here is a resume example of how this skill is used in the everyday duties of associate software engineers: "developed software solutions for enterprise environments using java, j2ee, sql, and other technologies. "

Most common associate software engineer skills

Choose from 10+ customizable associate software engineer resume templates

Build a professional associate software engineer resume in minutes. Our AI resume writing assistant will guide you through every step of the process, and you can choose from 10+ resume templates to create your associate software engineer resume.
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume
Associate Software Engineer Resume

Compare different associate software engineers

Associate software engineer vs. Software analyst

A software analyst is responsible for creating and designing software programs and applications, as well as modifying existing ones for optimization according to business requirements. Software analysts work with the technical team to draw system codes, analyze programming languages, and ensure the stability and efficiency of software navigation by running multiple quality checks to the system. They inspect the application's performance, configure servers, and improve software infrastructure according to quality findings. A software analyst records resolution reports and provides progress updates, ensuring that the project adheres to budget limitations and set timetables.

We looked at the average associate software engineer salary and compared it with the wages of a software analyst. Generally speaking, software analysts are paid $581 lower than associate software engineers per year.Even though associate software engineers and software analysts are distinct careers, a few of the skills required for both jobs are similar. For example, both careers require java, c++, and object oriented programming in the day-to-day roles and responsibilities.

While similarities exist, there are also some differences between associate software engineers and software analyst. For instance, associate software engineer responsibilities require skills such as "python," "git," "taking care," and "code reviews." Whereas a software analyst is skilled in "software development," "troubleshoot," "test data," and "business process." This is part of what separates the two careers.

Software analysts earn the highest salaries when working in the manufacturing industry, with an average yearly salary of $86,986. On the other hand, associate software engineers are paid more in the finance industry with an average salary of $111,877.The education levels that software analysts earn slightly differ from associate software engineers. In particular, software analysts are 2.1% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree than an associate software engineer. Additionally, they're 0.3% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

Associate software engineer vs. Lead engineer

A lead engineer's duties vary on their line of work or industry of employment. Typically, their responsibilities will revolve around overseeing the progress of operations and performance of the workforce, ensuring that everything is running smoothly. They are also responsible for addressing issues and concerns, assessing risks, monitoring the budget, coordinating with clients and architects, and even training workers. Furthermore, as a lead engineer, it is crucial to conduct regular inspections to ensure the quality of work and maintain a safe environment for all workers.

A career as a lead engineer brings a higher average salary when compared to the average annual salary of an associate software engineer. In fact, lead engineers salary is $5,946 higher than the salary of associate software engineers per year.A few skills overlap for associate software engineers and lead engineers. Resumes from both professions show that the duties of each career rely on skills like "java," "python," and "c++. "

Each career also uses different skills, according to real associate software engineer resumes. While associate software engineer responsibilities can utilize skills like "scrum," "taking care," "code reviews," and "front end," lead engineers use skills like "architecture," "c #," "javascript," and "database."

Lead engineers earn a higher average salary than associate software engineers. But lead engineers earn the highest pay in the automotive industry, with an average salary of $110,872. Additionally, associate software engineers earn the highest salaries in the finance with average pay of $111,877 annually.In general, lead engineers achieve similar levels of education than associate software engineers. They're 2.5% more likely to obtain a Master's Degree while being 0.3% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for associate software engineers in the next 3-5 years?

Frank McCown Ph.D.Frank McCown Ph.D. LinkedIn profile

Associate Professor, Harding University

Software continues to move to mobile devices and the web and away from desktop applications. The pandemic has encouraged growth in applications that make in-person transactions go away, and that trend will likely continue. Obviously AI-enabled or assisted applications will continue to grow.

Associate software engineer vs. Software developer

A software developer is responsible for designing application systems to support the user and business' needs. Duties of a software developer include testing software codes, performing diagnostic programs and troubleshooting, interpreting system data and establishing efficient parameters, and ensuring the compatibility of the systems. A software developer must have an excellent knowledge of computer programs and programming languages to understand its complexities, especially on detecting system defects and malfunctions. A software developer must have strong attention to detail, communication, and decision-making skills to coordinate with the team and also work independently under minimal supervision.

An average software developer eans a higher salary compared to the average salary of associate software engineers. The difference in salaries amounts to software developers earning a $8,540 higher average salary than associate software engineers.Using the responsibilities included on associate software engineers and software developers resumes, we found that both professions have similar skill requirements, such as "java," "python," and "c++.rdquo;

Some important key differences between the two careers include a few of the skills necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of each. Some examples from associate software engineer resumes include skills like "taking care," "code reviews," "data analysis," and "development life," whereas a software developer is more likely to list skills in "software development," "javascript," "database," and "version control. "

Software developers earn the highest salary when working in the finance industry, where they receive an average salary of $96,138. Comparatively, associate software engineers have the highest earning potential in the finance industry, with an average salary of $111,877.software developers typically earn similar educational levels compared to associate software engineers. Specifically, they're 4.1% more likely to graduate with a Master's Degree, and 0.5% more likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

Associate software engineer vs. Software engineering internship

A software engineer intern is responsible for assisting the technology department's operations, using their class knowledge on performing practical applications. Software engineer interns support software engineers on their processes, shadowing their daily tasks, and performing duties under mentors' supervision. They assess ideas, contribute to the development of new applications, and research current technology trends to help with product innovations. A software engineer intern must have excellent knowledge of the technology systems industry, programming languages, and learn efficiently through observations.

Software engineering interns average a lower salary than the annual salary of associate software engineers. The difference is about $31,817 per year.While both associate software engineers and software engineering interns complete day-to-day tasks using similar skills like java, python, and c++, the two careers vary in some skills.

Even though a few skill sets overlap between associate software engineers and software engineering interns, there are some differences that are important to note. For one, an associate software engineer might have more use for skills like "taking care," "api," "application development," and "development life." Meanwhile, some responsibilities of software engineering interns require skills like "software development," "cloud," "emerging technologies," and "c."

Software engineering interns enjoy the best pay in the technology industry, with an average salary of $54,203. For comparison, associate software engineers earn the highest salary in the finance industry.software engineering interns reach higher levels of education compared to associate software engineers, in general. The difference is that they're 6.8% more likely to earn a Master's Degree, and 0.5% more likely to graduate with a Doctoral Degree.

Types of associate software engineer

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Browse computer and mathematical jobs