Using software has grown commonplace, whether it's for music listening, video conferencing, or flight booking. In fact, it's become so commonplace that it's difficult to picture life without applications.
The creation of the apps we use on a daily basis is the work of software engineers. A thorough understanding of coding, development tools, and engineering principles is necessary for this highly skilled position. A great job choice for someone with a technical brain and a passion for problem-solving is software engineering.
We'll look at every skill you'll require to start out in the industry. But first, let's take a closer look at the position.
What Does a Software Engineer Do?
A software engineer plans, designs, develops, tests, and maintains computer software and mobile applications using engineering principles. Although substantial programming skills is required for the position, it involves more than just computer programming.
Before coming up with design concepts to satisfy the requirements, software engineers must first gather user needs, specify the system requirements, and describe the requirements. The software must then be created and error-checked. After the software is created, the task is not finished. Based on customer feedback, software developers must continuously provide support, maintenance, and software updates.
Software engineers are in high demand as a result of the recent surge in mobile technology. Software engineers with advanced skills are highly prized by employers, who provide them with competitive pay and benefits.
Here are some common software engineering responsibilities:
- Improving system quality.
- Enhancing applications.
- Writing testable code.
- Debugging and troubleshooting existing systems.
- Developing flowcharts, layouts, and documentation for solutions.
- Executing the software development lifecycle.
- Developing and executing project plans.
- Problem-solving using statistics and mathematical tools.
- Implementing new technologies wherever relevant.
- Maintaining codebases.
- Collaborating with others to implement technical designs.
- Ensuring the system is updated with the latest features.
Software Engineering Hard Skills
Here are some technical skills required for the role:
Programming Languages: There are hundreds of programming languages to choose from. Some of the most popular languages include JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Python, SQL, C++, PHP, Ruby, and Java.
If you’re planning a future in software engineering, you must have a command over at least one or two of these languages. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages and is used in specific situations.
For example, C++ provides fast execution times and low resource usage. It’s great for building software that needs to be optimized for speed like 3D video games.
JavaScript is a scripting language that requires a web browser to run. It’s device-independent so the same program can run across different platforms. This makes it perfect for web applications.
Databases: Every software engineer should know how to work with databases. You’ll have to handle creating, storing, maintaining, managing, and updating data. Knowledge of concepts like normalization and table design will come in handy.
You should also be good at writing SQL queries. MySQL, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, Cassandra, and Redis are some popular database systems. You don’t need to be good at all of these, mastering one will do the job.
Data Structures: This is a crucial skill required for problem-solving and writing code. You’ll not be able to write an application without knowing basic data structures like a map, linked list, and an array.
IDEs: An IDE (or Integrated Development Environment) is a word processor for programmers. It’s easier to read and write computer code using an IDE. They speed up the process by highlighting and color-coding commands and statements. They can also report errors in real-time so you don’t have to compile the program to identify bugs.
Visual Studio or Code Blocks are considered good IDEs for C, C++, and C# programmers. PyCharm, Spyder, or Jupyter notebooks are popular amongst those who use Python. Eclipse, NetBeans, and IntelliJ IDEA are recommended for Java developers.
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Text editors can also be used to write code. Notepad++, Sublime, VIM, and Atom are some of the widely used editors. You should learn keyboard shortcuts too, in order to save time and work efficiently.
Software Testing and Debugging: Many companies prefer candidates who are good at testing and debugging. These are crucial parts of any large scale software project.
Networking: Almost all applications are based on a client-server model, where the request will go through the network to a server. Applications like online games, cloud computing, and business automation all use networks. The architecture has to be designed properly, otherwise errors and HTTP request issues can occur.
Software Engineering Soft Skills
It’s rare to work in isolation as a software engineer. You’ll therefore need strong social and interpersonal skills to help you be an effective team member. Here are some essential soft skills needed for the role:
Adaptability: Technological domains advance quickly. This is particularly valid for a software engineer position. As outdated methods alter and advance, you should be willing to pick up new knowledge and technologies. Adopting new techniques can be difficult at times. You should be able to respond positively to issues, criticism, and remarks.
Empathy: You should be able to imagine yourself in their position as a software engineer. This can aid in your comprehension of the issues and difficulties that your team is experiencing. For instance, you should consider the viewpoint of the team member to whom you are providing feedback. Additionally, you want to be able to relate to your users. You can better comprehend their demands if you do this.
Teamwork: You'll have to collaborate with others in groups, which calls for people skills. You should be able to take criticism well, respect your coworkers, hear what they have to say, feel empathy for them, and talk to them. You'll be a good team player if you possess these traits.
Communication: It’s important that you communicate your ideas and your perspective to others clearly and effectively. Good communication within a team facilitates harmony. You should also be a good listener. Keep in mind not to interrupt others while they’re speaking.
Problem-Solving: Problems and challenges are a part of every job. The important thing is how you handle them. The key is to look at problems objectively. Instead of blaming others, your aim should be to find solutions. This is a key quality recruiters look for in a candidate during the hiring process.