Software Engineer

Software engineers research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers and network distribution software.

They work with medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific and general computing applications.

Software engineers set operational specifications and formulate and analyze software requirements.

SKILLS

The ability to create functional and technical design specifications for development efforts is an essential skill for software engineers.
They must also have proficient programming skills, including familiarity with data types, syntax and control structures, and must be able to analyze and prioritize information to make appropriate recommendations.
Software engineers should also be adept at debugging complex application problems and be able to produce quality software documentation, including requirements specifications, design documents and unit test plans.
Other important skills include problem solving and the ability to work as part of a team.

EDUCATION

A four-year Engineering degree or Master in Computer Application (MCA) in a computer-related discipline is required for most software engineering positions.
Certification in various software applications is suggested.
Training programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, technical institutes and in the Armed Forces.

OUTLOOK

Demand for this occupation is expected to grow as computer applications continue to expand.
Growth will be driven by the very rapid growth in computer and data processing services, which is projected to be the fastest expanding industry in the US economy.