what is a software developer?
As a software developer, you are the creative mind behind computer programmes and software applications. You build the programmes from scratch or oversee the team in charge of creating the applications. Software programmes help users perform specific tasks on various gadgets like computers and mobile phones.
As a software developer, you can create applications or operating systems used in computers and electronic gadgets. You collaborate with computer engineers and programmers to develop complex and functional systems that meet customers' needs or help a company improve efficiency. Your job doesn't end in development; you have to test and install the software to ensure it works correctly.
job description of a software developer
As a software developer, you maintain and update software applications to fix bugs and improve their functionality. That means you need to monitor the performance and find creative ways to add new features. For instance, the security systems should be up-to-date and have the latest security features, and the software application should be compatible with new operating systems.
If you want to become a successful developer, you need strong coding skills and creativity. Skills in design help you translate user needs into an interactive application with an appealing layout and theme. Your technical lead aptitude in mind also assists in figuring out how the pieces of a system can work together.
Would working as a software developer suit your technical aptitude? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a software developer role.
average salary of a software developer
According to National Careers, a junior software developer with minimal experience earns £20,000 per year. A senior software developer with expertise in the field earns up to £70,000 annually. You can increase your salary by working extra hours. Some companies also offer bonuses for the successful completion of projects. Apart from the basic salary, you also receive allowances and medical insurance or contribution to your pension scheme.
factors that affect the salary of a software developer
Your earnings as a software developer vary based on your experience and skills. Senior software developers earn more than their junior counterparts since they have additional years of experience. Besides, senior software developers manage teams and undertake complex projects. Experience enhances your skills and competencies, making you eligible for better pay. Educational qualifications can also influence your earnings. A software developer with a degree or masters has a better compensation package than developers joining through apprenticeships.
Your salary also depends on the employer and project complexity. For instance, a large company handles complex projects and pays higher wages than small businesses. However, start-ups are great for entry-level developers who need to build their skills and experience.
types of software developer
A software developer can specialise in the following roles:
- web developer: your job involves building websites and applications based on clients' needs. You work on the sites' visual elements, like the layouts and themes, to make them appealing for clients. You also control the databases and code the back-end.
- system developer: you are responsible for building operating system software for various programmes. You also create systems for regulating and operating computer infrastructure. Embedded system software developers create programming codes on hardware devices like washing machines, fridges and televisions.
- app developers: your job is to write codes for video games or mobile applications. You build the user interface and perform various functions on mobile devices. Video game and mobile developers are app software developers.
working as a software developer
Software development is an exciting career that allows you to build applications and websites. Let's explore what the daily life of a software developer looks like and the duties involved.
For more information on the application process and interview tips, access the links below:
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software developer job description
Specific tasks depend on the project or industry, but the common duties include:
- discussing software requirements with clients: as a software developer, you meet with clients to determine their software needs. Some clients know the features they want in their software, while others can only provide the general purpose of the software. Hence, you need to research the target users and identify features to incorporate into the software.
- planning and designing the software: when you have a picture of the client's needs, you should develop a plan that guides the design. You can list the steps necessary for building the software and create a timeline from start to finish. During planning, you also identify the coding languages to use and start coding the software.
- upgrading current applications: when you are not building new software, your job is to test existing applications. You can adjust the functions and find creative ways to improve the performance of the software. Sometimes the upgrades involve optimising the software to enhance speed and improve integration with the latest technologies.
- testing applications and performing quality checks: new software should undergo testing before introduction to the market. As a software developer, you need to complete functional and non-functional testing. In functional testing, you determine if the software functions properly. If a customer clicks a link, it should take them to the correct destination. Non-functional testing ensures the website or application meets the user's standards in terms of speed and functionality in different devices.
- recording the software development process: it is crucial to document the development process. It helps future maintenance teams identify portions of the code that need improvement and speeds up the identification of bugs and errors.
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work environment
Software developers work in IT and tech and they work in various industries, from large corporations to small start-ups in finance, technology and manufacturing. A software developer works in an office setting and accomplishes most of the work on a computer. While you spend many hours in the office, most employers provide cosy offices with functional spaces for brainstorming sessions or private coding spaces. The offices are also well-lit and air-conditioned. Some software developers work remotely from their home offices or library.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer, your colleagues might include software engineers, computer engineers and information technology consultants. Software engineers help you develop the design while IT consultants assist in analysing client requirements. You might also be working in close proximity to data scientists, ux designers, .net developers, cad designers, quality assurance analysts, e-commerce managers and other specialists like testers, project managers and security developers.
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work schedule
As a software developer, your work schedule varies depending on the project. Minor projects are not time-consuming, and you can complete them by working the regular office hours from 9 am to 5 pm for 40 hours a week. However, complex projects take a lot of time, and sometimes, you have to work over 50 hours a week, including weekends and evenings. Most software developers work full-time positions, but part-time positions are available. Short-term contracts and freelance opportunities are also available for software developers who enjoy flexible working hours. Your job involves travelling to meet clients and overseas travel if you work for a multinational company.
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job outlook
As a software developer, you have exciting opportunities for career development. When you start at a junior position, you can improve your skills and become a senior software developer in charge of your team. Some software developers migrate to related careers like system design, business system analysis or IT architecture. Alternatively, specialise in one of the branches of software development like mobile, web or video game development and become an expert in the field. Software development also provides opportunities for self-employment for those with adequate experience.
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advantages of finding a software developer job through randstad
Finding your software developer job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a software developer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
As a software developer, you need educational qualifications to acquire relevant expertise in the field. Some of the academic requirements include:
- university course: join the profession through a higher national diploma, foundation degree or undergraduate degree in software development. Other related fields include information technology, financial technology and computer science. You need 1 or 2 A Levels for your higher national diploma and foundation degree, while an undergraduate degree requires 3 A Levels.
- college: a college course can land you a software developer trainee position, but you will need advanced qualifications to progress in your career. The best courses in software development are Level 3 certificates in programming courses and a higher national certificate in computing.
- apprenticeship: complete an apprenticeship in software development or digital technology to become a trainee software developer. The apprenticeship requires 5 GCSEs, and you have to work at least 30 hours a week.
skills and competencies
Some of the skills of a software developer include:
- analytical skills: as a software developer, you need to evaluate users' needs when determining the software requirements. Analytical skills help you separate useful features and analyse the software's functionality. Analytical skills also come in handy during testing.
- communication skills: as a software developer, communication skills are crucial for giving clear instructions to the development team and explaining problems that arise. Communication skills also help you explain complex features to clients and investors without using technical terms.
- creativity: a software developer should be innovative to design visually appealing platforms. Creative skills help you find unique ways to design software or improve the functions of an application.
- detail-oriented: as a software developer, you need to tackle various software components. If you are not detail-oriented, your application will have many errors, slowing down the development process. Attention to detail also helps you identify bugs and errors during maintenance or testing.
FAQs
FAQs about working as a software developer
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what is the role of a software developer?
A software developer builds software based on the users' requirements and pre-determined functions. They also check for errors and maintain existing applications.
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how much do software developers get paid?
As a software developer, your salary ranges from £20,000 to £70,000 per year. You also receive additional benefits like bonuses and allowances. Want to learn more about working as a software developer? Then check out this article.
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what does software developer mean?
A software developer is a programmer who uses coding skills to build software and applications.
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What are the qualifications for a software developer?
You need a degree in software development or a computer-related subject to become a software developer. Apprenticeship and college courses are also available.
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how do I apply for a software developer vacancy?
Applying for a software developer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!
