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What is a computer software engineer and how to become one
Computer software engineers are responsible for creating and modifying general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. They design software or customize the software for client use to optimize operational efficiency. They may also analyze and create databases within an application area as well as advise users regarding the technical direction of their computer system based on their needs. Computer software engineers earn an average sum of $101,000 annually or $48 per hour.
Computer software engineers modify existing software to correct errors and allow it to adapt to new hardware. They analyze user needs and software requirements to determine the feasibility of design within time and cost constraints and consult with customers about software system design and maintenance. They also coordinate software system installation and monitor equipment functioning.
Computer software engineers mostly hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, software engineering, or other related fields. Although, a master's degree may be the right choice in some instances. They are expected to possess excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills to understand written sentences in work-related documents.
What general advice would you give to a computer software engineer?
Frank McCown Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Harding University
Avg. Salary $102,511
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 21%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.17%
Asian 30.01%
Black or African American 4.35%
Hispanic or Latino 8.08%
Unknown 4.78%
White 52.62%
Genderfemale 19.46%
male 80.54%
Age - 38American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 38Stress level is moderate
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is good
6.4 - fair
Computer software engineer career paths
Key steps to become a computer software engineer
Explore computer software engineer education requirements
Start to develop specific computer software engineer skills
Skills Percentages Python 18.80% Software Development 12.80% Java 12.04% Linux 7.25% Object Oriented Programming 4.54% Complete relevant computer software engineer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer software engineers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer software engineer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer software engineer resumes.Research computer software engineer duties and responsibilities
- Contribute to implementing microservices used to manage entities and maintain a synchronize state between supplier and distributor.
- Authore PHP, Perl, and JAVA scripts for various other department projects.
- Compile for Linux and BSD Unix.
- Develop the front-end of the application using JSP and Perl.
Get computer software engineer experience
Generally, it takes 2-4 years to become a computer software engineer. The most common roles before becoming a computer software engineer include software engineer, senior software engineer team lead and research assistant.Prepare your computer software engineer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your computer software engineer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a computer software engineer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable computer software engineer resume templates
Build a professional computer software engineer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your computer software engineer resume.
Apply for computer software engineer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a computer software engineer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first computer software engineer job
Are you a computer software engineer?
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Average computer software engineer salary
The average computer software engineer salary in the United States is $102,511 per year or $49 per hour. Computer software engineer salaries range between $77,000 and $134,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do computer software engineers rate their job?
Computer software engineer reviews
Problem solving and cutting edge technology - always learning and evolving my skill set
Still have to deal with people :)
I enjoyed working on creative problems that dealt with the user interface
I didn't like how technical it could become
Designing a new system or making changes to an old one.
Compensation. Pay and Benefits do not match the time spent on a project. Alabama is the Worst state to live in for SOFTWARE ENGINEER Salaries. 40 to 50 percent less than our peer States.
Updated January 8, 2025
