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Get started in software developer careers

February 1, 2023
4 mins read
Get started in software developer careers

Get started in software developer careers

Software developers are in high demand as businesses look to create and maintain software products. As technology advances and the need for custom software becomes more prevalent, the demand for software developers will continue to grow.

Software development is an exciting, challenging, and rewarding career path. It requires a unique combination of technical and creative skills and a deep understanding of the most up-to-date programming languages and platforms. Let’s explore software developer jobs and why it’s a great career path.

What is a Software Developer?

A software developer designs, builds, tests, and maintains software applications and systems. Software developers may be self-employed, employed by a software development company, hired as a consultant, or employed by a business or organisation. Software developers often specialise in one type of software or are generalists who can work on any type of software.

Types of Software Development

Software development can be divided into multiple categories. The industry is constantly expanding and evolving, and this growth has caused numerous types of software development to flourish. For instance, some of the main types of software development include the following:

  • Web development
  • Frontend development
  • Backend development
  • Database development
  • Mobile development
  • Cloud computing
  • DevOps engineering
  • Full-stack development
  • Security engineering
  • Desktop development
  • API development
  • Application development

Skills and Qualifications

Software developers need a combination of technical and creative skills to succeed. Technical skills include knowledge of programming languages, databases, operating systems, software development tools, and other technologies, and creative skills include problem-solving, communication, and design.

In addition to these skills, software developers need a deep understanding of the software development process, including the software design cycle, software testing, debugging, and software project management.

You’ll need to meet specific qualifications if you’re considering a career in software development or looking to hire a software developer. For example, below are some qualifications required by most software development jobs.

  • A bachelor’s degree in software development, computer science, or other similar fields
  • Work experience: depending on the software development company, you’ll typically need anywhere between 2 to 5 years of experience as a developer
  • Knowledge of programming languages
  • Knowledge of coding

The Demand for Software Developers

Software development is a rapidly growing field. In 2021, 466,000 programmers and software developers were employed in the United Kingdom, and the market size for this industry is anticipated to increase by 4.2% in 2023 in the UK.

Job Market Statistics

In the UK, the software development industry is estimated to be £41.4bn in 2023, and the market size has grown an average of 5.3% per year between 2018 and 2023. Globally, the software development market is expected to flourish and continue multiplying in the upcoming years. In the global market, the software developer population will reach an estimated 28.7 million people by 2024.

The highest growth rate for software development positions is the market in China. The country's growth rate of six to eight percent entering 2023 will likely continue to lead in this arena.

Industries in Need

Software developers are in high demand in various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, education, and government. Businesses in these industries want to create and maintain software products to meet customers’ needs. As technology advances, the need for software developers will continue to grow in these industries and many others.

Benefits of Working in a High-Demand Field

Software development is an exciting, challenging, and rewarding career path. Many positions offer high salaries and job security, and this field gives you the potential to work in numerous industries. Additionally, developers can work on innovative software and cutting-edge technologies to continue developing their skills and reach their field's top.

Roles and Responsibilities

Software developers cover numerous responsibilities that help an organisation thrive with innovative technology solutions. Some of the primary responsibilities of software developers include:

  • Working with other developers to create algorithms and flowcharts
  • Integrating various components and third-party programs
  • Verifying systems
  • Troubleshooting existing software
  • Upgrading existing software
  • Creating efficient and effective code
  • Making vital recommendations for software improvements
  • Documents essential data for reporting

How to Become a Software Developer Step-by-Step

Becoming a software developer requires a specific skill set and creative intuition. Along with qualifications like a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and previous work experience, there are other steps to remember. Here is a guide to becoming a software developer:

  1. Learn the basics: Start by learning programming languages, databases, operating systems, and software development tools.
  2. Gain experience: Once you understand the fundamentals, gain experience by working on projects and building your skills.
  3. Get certified: Consider getting certified in a programming language or software development tool to demonstrate your expertise.
  4. Find a job: Use job boards, online networks, and other resources to find a software development job.
  5. Build your network: Connect with other software developers, attend conferences and seminars, and volunteer for projects to build your network.

Read our blog on how to create a cv for a software developer.

Resources Available

There are a variety of resources available to help you become a software developer. You can learn the basics of programming languages, databases, and other technologies through online courses, tutorials, or books. In addition, there are a variety of job boards, online networks, and other resources to help you find a software development job.

Salary and Benefits

Your salary depends on numerous factors, such as location and seniority level. In 2021, U.S.-based software developers earned an average salary of $108,000; in the UK, software developers made an average base salary of £31,910. Though this may vary, many software developers receive medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Earning Potential

The earning potential for software developers depends on various factors, including experience, education, location, and the type of job. Software developers with more experience and a higher level of education have the potential to earn a higher salary.

In addition, software developers in specific locations or with specialised skills can command higher salaries. If you are looking for a higher salary, continue developing your skills in software development.

Conclusion

Software development is a dynamic and in-demand field, offering a high salary, job security, and the potential to work in numerous industries. With the right combination of technical and creative skills, software developers can find exciting and rewarding career paths.

Additionally, businesses seeking software developers and individuals looking into software engineer jobs can find what they’re looking for at Scrums.com. Scrums.com has experts to help you hire a software developer.

At Scrums.com, we can help you scale your enterprise at a low cost to help your business thrive. Contact our team today and sign up to get started on your flourishing career in software development.

About Scrums.com

Scrums.com is revolutionizing the way growth companies scale their engineering teams. Our platform offers access to top-notch remote software engineering teams at an affordable subscription price.

Contact us and let's chat about how we can help you grow.

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