Guide To A Successful Software Engineer Career Path

Technology is one of the reasons why the world is fast evolving, changing the way we live and work. In fact, a survey done by JobStreet with the Boston Consulting Group (BGC) and The Network, talks about how automation is affecting workers and industries all over the world. As internet users increase, so do the companies that use technology. However, to keep things running smoothly, businesses always need tech solutions. To do this, they need IT professionals such as software engineers. Here is your guide to everything you need to know about a software engineer career path.

What does a software engineer do?

Before houses are built, architects work with construction engineers. These engineers make sure that plans have strong foundations. Because no matter how beautiful a house looks, it can pose danger to its dwellers if its structure is weak.

In the same way, software engineers study software's structure to make it function efficiently. They are problem-solvers, using the principles of math, programming, and computer science. Software developers actually make codes based on the plans of software engineers. Simply put, software engineers are involved in all aspects of software production"”from brainstorming to the finished product.

A software engineer does the following:

• Helps build and maintain software 
• Works with different teams 
• Studies and solves software problems
• Ensures software quality through testing guidelines
• Leads projects by assigning and scheduling tasks

Salary Range

Software engineers in the Philippines can expect an average yearly salary of ₱432,027. Factors that may affect salary are work experience, skills, employer, and the requirements of the job itself

The Software Engineer Career Path

Because remote work is on the rise, some software engineers enjoy flexible hours in the comfort of their own homes. But their skills are sought after everywhere"”in health care, businesses, and the government among others. Just how important are software engineers? Well, all the apps in your smartphone, computer or tablet were developed by these tech wizards.

Typically, software engineers can enjoy these positions depending on their work experience:

Junior Level (1-3 years' experience)

Junior Web Developer, Associate Software Engineer

Mid-Level (4-8 years' experience)

Software Engineer, Senior Software Engineer, Software Developer, Senior Software Web Developer

Senior Level (8 years or more)

Lead Software Engineer, Technical Architect, Software Development Manager, Chief Technology Officer

Software engineer career path requirements

Software engineers absorb a lot of info, but they also know how to apply this in real life. Here is a tip if you want to be a software engineer: a good mix of hard and soft skills can spell career success. 

Required Skills

1.  Programming languages

To get computers to follow your commands, you first need to understand their language. Programming languages are a series of instructions that lets you build and develop software. Examples of these are Java, Python and C++. You need to master only one or two of these languages to boost your expertise.

2.  Coding

Once you learn a programming language, you can try coding. Several codes make up a script, which tells the computer to do a task. For instance, a script is what makes a window pop up when you click a link.

3.  Software design and architecture

Software engineers know the architecture or structure of a program, and the ways its parts work together. However, they also know software design, which shows the details of how the whole software works. This involves algorithms and data structures.

4.  Problem solving

If you want to be a software engineer, then you should like finding solutions. But to solve problems, you must be good at studying and interpreting data. To find the cause of problems, you would need to test and retest software, remove its bugs and troubleshoot.

5.  Organizational skills

Programming languages can get complicated, so software engineers should know how to organize their knowledge. Through diagrams, flowcharts and other visual aids, these experts use their creativity to work more efficiently.

Other Skills

1.  Teamwork

It takes a team to create a successful software program. Software engineers  cannot do this on their own. By working with others, they can keep track of software edits, assign  tasks, and meet business goals.

2.  Communication

Software engineers collaborate with teams to resolve project issues. Nonetheless, communication goes both ways. As a project member, software engineers should know how to take constructive criticism. By owning up to their mistakes, they show professionalism and a passion for self-improvement.

3.  Attention to detail

A misplaced bracket or a wrong punctuation mark can make programs malfunction. Therefore, software engineers need to zero in on the details so they can catch even the smallest errors. Consequently, detail-oriented engineers turn in quality work.

4.  Long-Term Vision

A software engineer's list of tasks is long. Still, they shouldn't allow themselves to drown in their daily duties. They have to think ahead, and see how all the elements come together in the end. By looking at the big picture, they are able to make better decisions for the project at hand.

Educational background

The Commission on Higher Education included IT in its priority courses for scholarship programs for the academic year 2020 to 2021. This means that info tech jobs offer promising careers. Because technology is here to stay, being a software engineer can give you job security and a competitive salary. To pursue this profession, here's what you can study:

Bachelor Science in Computer Engineering

It takes four or five years to complete this program, depending on the college or university. This teaches students how to apply the principles of creating and supporting computer systems. This also equips them to understand ever-changing digital technologies.

Nevertheless, you can still be a software engineer by finishing similar programs such as Computer Science, Information Technology, and Electronics and Communications Engineering.

There are schools that offer software engineering as a two-year diploma course. Even so, more career opportunities, especially leadership roles, are open to those who graduated with a bachelor's degree.

Higher education includes a Master's Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology and other related fields. You can also get your Ph.D. in these programs. Aside from deepening your knowledge, these additional degrees can level up your career.

Required Certification and Training

Currently, software engineers in the Philippines do not require a license. But you can get certified on software development programs through various local and international bodies. These include the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and Microsoft. Though certifications are not required, these can boost your resume.

On your own, you can continue learning through podcasts, conferences and online courses. This keeps you updated on software news and developments. 

And as for upskilling your tech capabilities, you can check out these courses offered by Luna Academy in collaboration with Jobstreet.

How to write a software engineer resume?

An in-demand role such as a software engineer can also be highly competitive. So, make sure your resume packs a punch to bring you a step closer to getting hired!

Sample Resume for Software Engineers

Download this Software Engineer resume HERE.

Ready to jumpstart an exciting career in IT?  Visit JobStreet for the #JobsThatMatter, and create or update your profile. For more tips and news, check out Career Advice.