Software Engineer: What is it? Skills, and How to Become One

As of 2025, an average software engineer earns about $123,052; with senior engineers earning about $200,000 annually. Software Engineering happens to be one of the most in demand skills today, because technology drives the world and software engineers makes it happen.

​According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. ​

In this article, we will tell you all you need to know about software engineering, all you need to start on this career path, and how to navigate this career path as a beginner or a career changer. Lock In!

Key Takeaways

• Software engineering is a highly sought-after career with an average salary of $123,052, and senior engineers earning around $200,000 annually.
• It involves designing, creating, and maintaining software applications, including apps, and games.
• There are various specializations like front-end, back-end, full-stack, mobile, DevOps, security, and AI engineers.
• To become a software engineer, you typically need a computer science degree, knowledge of programming languages, and practical experience through coding bootcamps or freelancing.
• Key skills include problem-solving, creativity, and technical expertise in programming languages, data structures, and algorithms.

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What is Software Engineering, and What Does a Software Engineer Do?

Software engineering is the process of designing, building, and maintaining application software, websites and complex systems. It’s more than just coding—it’s about solving real-world problems with technology, while ensuring efficiency, reliability, and scalability.

Software engineers design, build and maintain software such as games, business applications, operating systems, network control systems, etc.

Types of Software Engineers

Software engineering is a broad career that features other specialized career paths. It is so broad that you have to pick a specialized area, focus on it, and create a career out of it.

These are the different types of software engineers available:

1. Front-End Engineer

Front-End Engineers focus on the user interface (UI)—the part of the application users interact with directly. They ensure the website or app looks good and functions smoothly across devices.

Their main job here is to perfect the performance of the software such as loading speed, security, ensure the codes are working well, and ensure the overall efficiency of the software before it gets to the end user.

Front-End Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Experience with front-end frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js.
• Knowledge of responsive design and cross-browser compatibility.
• Understanding of version control systems like Git.

2. Back-End Engineer

Back-End Engineers handles the server-side logic, and databases. They build the systems that process business logic, algorithms and manage user connections, data, and authentication.

Back-End Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in server-side languages like Python, Java, Ruby, or Node.js.
• Experience with database management systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB.
• Understanding of RESTful APIs and web services.
• Knowledge of cloud computing.

3. Full-Stack Engineers

Full-Stack Engineers works on both the back-end and the front-end of any application or website in development.

They work on the efficiency of the user side and the server side of the software being built from start to finish.

Full-Stack Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in both front-end (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and back-end (Node.js, Python, Ruby) technologies.
• Experience with both SQL and NoSQL databases.
• Knowledge of frameworks like React, Angular, and Express.js.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms and DevOps practices.

4. Mobile Engineers

Mobile Engineers are responsible for creating and designing mobile apps for Android or iOS. Think of the apps you use on your phones, a mobile engineer is responsible for its functionality and efficiency.

Mobile Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in mobile development languages such as Swift (iOS) or Kotlin (Android).
• Familiarity with mobile frameworks like React Native or Flutter.
• Knowledge of mobile UI/UX best practices.
• Experience with mobile testing and debugging tools.

5. DevOps Engineers

DevOps Engineers plays the role of bringing development and operations of a software together. They ensure code is deployed quickly, reliably, and securely through automation and monitoring

DevOps Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in scripting languages like Python, Bash, or Ruby.
• Experience with CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitLab, or CircleCI.
• Knowledge of Docker and Kubernetes.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure.

6. Security Engineers

Security Engineers also known as Cyber Security Engineers designs and maintain the security of the software being developed.

Their main job is to protect the application software from external or internal threats, hackers, security breaches, network and data hijack, and generally ensure software safety.

Security Engineer Skills:

• Knowledge of network security protocols and encryption methods.
• Experience with penetration testing and vulnerability assessments.
• Proficiency in programming languages like C, C++, Python, or Java.
• Familiarity with security tools like Wireshark, Nmap, and Nessus.

7. Data Engineers

Data Engineers design and build systems for collecting, storing, and analyzing data. They make data accessible for organizations that will need it for analysis and decision making.

Data Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or Scala.
• Experience with big data technologies such as Hadoop, Spark, or Kafka.
• Familiarity with ETL processes and data warehousing.
• Knowledge of databases such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB.

8. Machine Learning (ML) Engineers

Machine Learning Engineers design, build and maintain software systems that enable machine learning models to operate in a real world. They develop the tools needed to scale and optimize machine learning processes.

ML Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, R, or Java.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras, or PyTorch.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and probability.
• Familiarity with data preprocessing and feature engineering.

9. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engineers

AI Engineers design, develop, and deploy artificial intelligence systems that think like humans.

They work on intelligent algorithms, natural language processing (NLP), and other branches of AI to build smart applications like voice assistants, chatbots, fraud detection systems, etc.

AI Engineer Skills:

• Strong knowledge of AI concepts such as neural networks, reinforcement learning, and natural language processing.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, or Java.
• Experience with AI frameworks and libraries like TensorFlow, Keras, or OpenAI.
• Understanding of machine learning, deep learning, and data science.

10. Prompt Engineer

Prompt Engineers specialize in developing precise and effective prompts to optimize responses from AI language models, especially on large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4.

For an AI model to deliver outputs, it needs prompts. And its result depends on the prompts it is given. A good prompt will deliver good results, a bad prompt will deliver bad results.

Prompt Engineer Skills:

• Strong understanding of natural language processing (NLP) and LLMs.
• Experience with AI tools and platforms like GPT-4 or OpenAI API.
• Knowledge of data analysis and tuning techniques for model accuracy.
• Creativity in framing prompts to elicit the best responses.

11. Cloud Engineers

Cloud Engineers are responsible for building and managing cloud based infrastructure and apps. They help companies migrate to and maintain services on platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

Cloud Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in cloud services and platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure.
• Knowledge of infrastructure as code (IaC) tools like Terraform or CloudFormation.
• Experience with cloud security practices and monitoring tools.
• Familiarity with Docker and Kubernetes.

12. Blockchain Engineers

Blockchain Engineers are responsible for creating and implementing decentralized applications in the blockchain network.

Blockchain Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in blockchain platforms like Ethereum, Hyperledger, or Solana.
• Experience with smart contract development using Solidity or other blockchain languages.
• Knowledge of cryptography and consensus algorithms.
• Understanding of blockchain architecture and decentralized systems.

13. Embedded Systems Engineers

Embedded System Engineers work on hardware-level programming for devices like smartwatches, cars, and medical devices.

Embedded Systems Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in programming languages like C, C++, or Python.
• Experience with embedded systems development tools and IDEs.
• Knowledge of hardware and low-level programming.
• Familiarity with microcontroller architectures and peripherals.

14. Web Application Security Engineers (WASE)

Web Application Security Engineers are cybersecurity specialists that focus on protecting web applications from threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks such as SQL injection, XSS, and DDoS attacks.

WASE Skills:

• Strong understanding of web application vulnerabilities like SQL injection, XSS, and CSRF.
• Familiarity with security tools like OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, and Wireshark.
• Experience with encryption methods and secure authentication protocols.
• Knowledge of penetration testing and security audits.

15. Quality Assurance (QA) Engineers

QA Engineers are responsible for testing a software to ensure it meets quality requirements. They ensure software is of high quality and that software works efficiently with no bugs or glitch.

Quality Assurance Engineers Skills:

• Experience with manual and automated testing tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding of software development life cycles.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.

16. Site Reliability Engineers (SREs)

Site Reliability Engineer ensures the stability and reliability of the software before it’s released to the end users. They monitor performance, respond to incidents, and implement automation.

Site Reliability Engineers Skills:

• Proficiency in programming and scripting languages.
• Experience with system monitoring and logging tools.
• Understanding of distributed systems and networking.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

17. User Experience (UX)/ User Interface (UI) Engineers

UI Engineers focus on how users interact with software. While UX Engineers handle usability, user flows, and accessibility, UI Engineers focus on the visual and interactive elements of applications.

UI/UX Engineers Skills:

• Proficiency in design tools like Adobe XD, Sketch, or Figma.
• Strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Experience with responsive and adaptive design principles.
• Knowledge of user-centered design methodologies.

18. Games Developers

Game Developers design and code video games for consoles, PC, or mobile devices. They often work closely with game designers and animators.

Game Developers Skills:

• Proficiency in game development frameworks and engines like Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C++ or C#.
• Understanding of 2D and 3D graphics rendering.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.

19. AR/VR Developer

AV/VR Developers handles 3D modeling, physics simulation, user interaction, and hardware integration (like VR headsets or AR glasses), they also create augmented and virtual reality experiences for apps, games, and simulations.

AV/VR Developer Skills:

• Experience with AR/VR development platforms like ARKit, ARCore, or Oculus SDK.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering techniques.
• Strong programming skills in languages such as C# or C++.
• Understanding of user interaction within AR/VR environments.

20. Internet of Things (IoT) Engineers

IoT Engineers specialize in the design, developing and operation of Internet of Things software solutions that connects physical devices to the internet, enabling real-time monitoring and control.

IoT Engineer Skills:

• Proficiency in embedded programming languages like C or Python.
• Understanding of wireless communication protocols such as MQTT or CoAP.
• Experience with cloud platforms for IoT data management.
• Knowledge of security considerations in IoT systems.

21. Software Architects

Software Architects are senior level software developer who oversees software development projects, makes recommendations for the right software systems to use, and enforces coding standards.

Software Architects Skills:

• Extensive experience in software development and design.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in multiple programming languages and frameworks.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

How to Become a Software Engineer

Here are sure things you need to do to get your career started as a software engineer: 

1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (CS)

To start off your career in software engineering, you need to have a degree in Computer Science. Most recruiters prefer if you already have a degree to back up your skills.

The benefits of getting a degree in Computer Science is that it offers you a strong background in learning about software and designs, equips you with coding skills, increases your job prospects, and while studying computer science, you can delve into getting relevant skills and volunteering for real life projects.

It will be easy to convince people you are a software engineer with that degree, however without the degree you can still learn the relevant skills and make headway in your career.  

These are some top schools that you can get a Bachelor’s degree globally. They include:

• Harvard University
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• Stanford University
• University of Washington
• Carnegie Mellon University
• University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
• California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
• University of Texas at Austin
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

However, getting your degree does not have to be from top schools as this. What is more important is that you are learning the skills needed for the job, and not just a fancy degree.

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N/B: You can become a successful software engineer without a degree by focusing on self-learning, gaining practical experience, and earning certifications.

Many successful software engineers have built their careers by learning programming languages through bootcamps, online courses, and working on projects.

The key is to develop the right skills, build a strong portfolio, and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.

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2. Master Programming Languages & Required Skills

Most of the jobs you will do as a software engineer will require you to know programming language such as Python, Java, C++, C#, and other relevant programming languages.

Understanding of basic logic such as Boolean, operating systems, algebra, code debugging, are all relevant skills you need to master as a software engineer. 

3. Learn Data Structures and Algorithms

Data can be stored in different structures but you need to know how to tweak and manipulate these structures to create software.

Learning these skills will help you write codes that are efficient thereby improving your programming abilities which will be needed to make headways as a software engineer. 

4. Take Software Engineering Courses Online

In addition to getting a degree, you need to take professional software engineering courses online.

Coursera, Udemy, W3Schools, Data Camp, and even YouTube offer solid software engineering courses to help you learn and sharpen the skills you need as a software engineer. 

5. Join Coding Bootcamps

Bootcamps are short and intensive training techies get into. Bootcamps help you practice your skills, learn more and deepen your knowledge, and connect with other people in the same field as you.

Bootcamps are different from courses because courses are flexible but bootcamps are very intensive training.

Some bootcamps you can join include; General Assembly, SpringBoard, DevMountain, Coding Bootcamp, and other relevant boot camps offered globally.

Bootcamps offer you many benefits such as:

• Intensive training.
• Hands-on practical sessions.
• Access to relevant tools needed to sharpen your skills.
• Participate in group sessions and presentations.
• Network with fellow software engineers both junior level and senior level engineers.
• Offers you coaching sessions.

Also, engaging in Boot camps equips you with the discipline you need to learn than if you are self learning. And, the learning period will be faster than if you were learning all by yourself.

Bootcamps will give you an edge, and as a budding software engineer, investing in boot camps will help your career growth.

6.  Choose an Area of Specialization

As discussed earlier, there are different fields of specialization you can take on as a budding software engineer, and each area is very important in the grand scheme of things.

You need to pick one that aligns with your interest, get the skills and knowledge required, and start bidding for jobs.

Some of the most in-demand areas include:

• Cloud engineering
• Full-stack development
• Data engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Machine learning and AI

7. Get Practical Experience

It does not just end with getting a degree or taking multiple courses; You also need practical experience. 

This can be obtained by working on real life projects or even personal projects. When starting out, you can volunteer or intern for free.

The goal is to gain experience and learn while doing the job in real life scenarios. While starting out, money should not be the main focus but focus on getting the relevant skills and experience.  

You can also freelance by bidding for jobs on LinkedIn,  Upwork, Fiverr, Indeed, Working nomads, and many other job platforms where you can freelance from. 

8. Get Certifications & Advanced Learning

As they say, learning never ends. You need to continue updating your knowledge in your chosen field.

You should not relent in upskilling and taking advanced courses in order to scale up in your field as a Software Engineer. Also, getting a certification is important; as it will enhance you skills and increase your job prospects.

Some of the best certifications for software engineers include:

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect
• Certified Kubernetes Administrator
• Google Cloud Professional Cloud Developer
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• Oracle Certified Java Programmer

9. Land your first job as a Software Engineer

In order to land your first job as a Software Engineer, you need to be prepared. You have to prepare your resume, portfolio, as well as a cover letter. In addition, you need to prepare yourself for interviews.

1. Prepare you Resume

A piece of document (1-2pages), summarizing your professional qualifications.

Your resume should highlight your educational background, skills, work experience, or projects you have worked on in the course of your career.

Keep a Resume handy when applying for a job, and always remember to tweak your resume to fit each job you are applying for.

2. Get a Portfolio

A Portfolio is a collection of projects you have worked on. While your resume says you have done something, a Portfolio shows what you have done, how you did it, and what was the results of what you did.

A potential employer needs to see concrete example of what you can do beyond what you say in your resume. Your portfolio should consist of samples of your work, it is a practical way to show your skills to a potential employer.

3. Apply for a Software Engineer Job

Next thing you want to do when searching for a job is get on LinkedIn, one of the social networks where you can connect with potential employers and pitch yourself to them.

4. Master the Art of Nailing Interviews

One way to do this is to see interviews as a way to pitch yourself to potential employers.

You will be asked questions about your skillsets and experience, you must be ready to defend your skills and tell the interview how your skills and experience aligns with their interest.

Remember to stay confident while selling yourself; employers love to see confidence.

Essential Skills Every Software Engineer Needs

As a software engineer you need both technical and soft skills, technical skills include:

• Knowledge of programming language like JavaScript, Python, C++, C#, etc.
• Knowledge of different Operating Systems.
• Knowledge of Data structures and Algorithms.
• SQL
• Database Administration
• Debugging
• Software Frameworks
• Encryption.

Soft Skills Every Software Engineer Needs

Not just technical skills, but soft skills are also required to excel in a software engineering career, skills such as:

• Problem solving
• Creativity
• Quick Learner
• Time management
• Communication
• Team Player
• Adaptability
• Self Motivation. 

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