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How to become a Software Developer

5,058

Software Developer jobs

1,250

Software Developer courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Software Developer

Software Developer

| Up to £32,000

Software Engineer

| Up to £40,000

Senior Software Engineer

| Up to £50,000

The role of a Software Developer

What does a Software Developer do?

Getting sick of your latest iOS update? Think you could do better? You should be a Software Developer…

The main role of a Software Developer is to design and maintain a variety of computer software, which can help a company improve its efficiency. This could range from building databases for internal use and improving the office’s operating systems through to building servers and manufacturing mobile apps from scratch.

Although specific responsibilities vary from industry to industry, the role of a Software Developer will include the following:

Meeting with all key stakeholders to determine the desired outcome of a piece of work
Designing and installing new IT systems
Writing and implementing code
Conducting tests to monitor bugs and mitigate risks
Day-to-day maintenance of the programmes

Is a career as a Software Developer right for me?

To be successful as a Software Developer, you will need to be a natural when it comes to computers.

You will be expected to have some knowledge of an array of specific programming language, including (but not limited to) Javascript, C#, SQL and/or Python. And if the names mentioned above mean anything at all to you, you might just have what it takes to become a Software Developer.

It may also help if you’re Agile. Just saying…

Other key skills include:

Excellent problem solving skills
The ability to communicate effectively with your team
Critical and analytical thinking
The ability to pick things up quickly and work to strict deadlines
An active interest in all things tech

What's it like to be a Software Developer?

"Working as a Software Developer is great for a multitude of reasons. Not only does it mean I get to immerse myself in tech day in, day out, it also means I get to work with a group of like-minded individuals who love it just as much as me. I get to be myself, and do what I love – write code and develop programs. Also, the work sometimes involves some form of online gaming. Although strictly in lunch hours, obviously…"

Get qualified as a Software Developer

It is not a necessary requirement to have a degree to become a Software Developer, although some employers may look for candidates with a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Certifications in specific programming languages, technologies, or methodologies will also help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional development, and detailed knowledge of programming languages - such as Javascript, C#, SQL and Python - is essential for Software Developers. Microsoft, Cisco, and Oracle certifications are also widely recognised and respected in the industry.

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