Computer Software Engineer

Also known as:

Engineer, Computer Software
Software Engineer

Introduction

Computer software engineers analyse, design and create computer systems and software. They work on complex software, including operating systems.

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Work Activities

Computer software engineers usually work on operating systems and the types of software used to control automated equipment such as that used in manufacturing industries. Computer analyst programmers and computer programmers tend to work on software used for business activities, such as managing a payroll. However, these career titles are increasingly being used to describe both types of job.

Software engineers work on all stages in the development of software products. They devise software to meet a particular need. They might analyse an existing system, decide how the new system will work and what features it will have. They design the system, then code it in a computer programming language. They test the code to make sure there are no faults ('bugs') in it.

Software engineers must understand their client's business and their needs and problems. They agree costs and deadlines with their client, and set out a proposal for the finished software product. Then, usually working in a team for larger programs, they write the program. Finally they test the program and correct any problems.

Software engineers might train their clients to use the new program or system. They also train service technicians and support engineers who will support and maintain the system.

They often write instructions or manuals to go with their software.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

Attention to detail and commitment to seeing projects through from start to finish are vital. You must enjoy solving problems and have a logical, methodical approach to your work.

Computer software engineers need a high level of technical expertise. You must keep up-to-date with advances in hardware and software technology.

You will also need good interpersonal skills to work in teams and to communicate with clients, who may be unfamiliar with computers. You need good written skills to present proposals and reports to clients and to write instruction manuals. Strong communication skills are also needed to train clients in how to use new programs.

As well as working in teams, software engineers must be able to work alone.

They often work to deadlines, so you must be well organised and able to work well under pressure.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for computer software engineers vary, depending on employer, role and responsibilities.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Computer software engineers earn in the range of £22,000 - £28,000 a year, rising to £35,000 - £44,000. Higher earners can make around £54,000 a year, and higher salaries are available.

Software engineers usually work a 35-hour week, Monday to Friday, but sometimes have to work late to meet deadlines.

Most jobs are in the aerospace, computing, instrumentation or telecommunications industries. Other employers are information technology consultants and software or systems houses.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (eg, Access to Engineering) could be the way in.

These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

One-year IT postgraduate conversion courses may be available for graduates who have a non-relevant first degree subject.

Sponsorship for study at higher education level may be available through the larger IT, engineering and manufacturing companies.

Funding for postgraduate study can be available from some research councils, especially the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

There are other pathways through which candidates can register as Chartered or Incorporated Engineers, such as career progression from other levels of registration and routes based on the achievement of occupational standards.

• 4% of computer software engineers work part-time.
• 21% have flexible hours.
• 3% work on a temporary basis.

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