What does a software developer do?
Software developers are computer science experts who are responsible for designing and creating custom software and applications for clients using programming languages. In the process, they write code to carry out the functions of the software, and they liaise with clients to fine-tune and test the required programs. A software developer usually specialises in a particular area, such as database development or web development.
When creating software, software developers collaborate with development managers and systems analysts to ensure the best possible functionality. They usually follow the software development cycle consisting of eight stages, namely requirements analysis, planning, design, development, test, deployment, operation and maintenance.
Software developer skills and qualifications
A successful software developer needs to have the following skills and aptitudes:
- mathematical and technical aptitude
- ability to learn new technologies and programming languages
- great attention to detail
- excellent communication skills
- outstanding problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
- willingness to learn and keep up with the latest trends
Software developer experience requirements
Software developers are typically expected to have a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer programming, software development or a related field. Some employers will even look for applicants with more in-depth expertise acquired through a Master’s degree, while others are open to hiring applicants with only a high school certificate but relevant training and work experience.
What experience you require a software developer to have will depend on the programming needs of your organisation in each case. There will likely be a suitable applicant for any need.
Software developer education and training requirements
A software developer can choose from different educational paths. They could choose the university path and complete a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering or a related field. Alternatively, they can go down the Vocational Education and Training path and obtain a VET qualification, such as a diploma in information technology.
In addition, they need to train in agile development methodologies and acquire knowledge of coding languages (e.g. Java, JavaScript, C++), frameworks (e.g. Git, AngularJS) as well as databases and Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) frameworks (e.g. Hibernate).
Later on, optional further study through a professional institute is recommended to get either an IT certification or a relevant Master’s degree.
Software developer salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a software developer is $100,456 per year. Software developer salaries may vary depending on the employer and the location. Software developer salaries in major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane tend to be higher than those in more remote areas.
Job description samples for similar positions
There are a few roles that are similar to a software developer. Take a look to see if you need to hire one of these experts in addition to or instead of a software developer:
Software developer job description FAQs
Do software developers work alone or in a team?
A software developer can work alone while coding a program, but they are always part of a larger team and need to interact with colleagues and clients on a regular basis. Especially close coordination is required between software developers, interface designers, IT specialists, development managers and systems analysts to ensure everyone is on the same page and everything stays on track.
Software developers are often employed by large flagship organisations such as Microsoft, or in IT departments of more traditional companies. Some software developers prefer to work as contractors and join organisations on a freelance or project basis.
What does a software developer do once a program is completed and up and running?
A software developer’s job is far from over once an app or software goes live. Software developers often stay in close contact with clients and users to ensure the programs run smoothly and to maintain them.
Some programs may also need to be updated and adapted to new trends or developments over time, while other clients may want their applications to be regularly enhanced or further developed in the long term.
Does my software developer need to be in-house or can they work remotely?
Nowadays, remote working has become the norm in many organisations – especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. You do need to have regular check-ins with your software development team, but this can be easily done via video call. It is therefore not absolutely necessary to have your development team on site. In fact, your ideal candidate may be based hundreds of miles away, but this is no longer a dealbreaker these days, given the current technical possibilities for liaising with clients, colleagues and stakeholders.
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