Software enginers ensure that development follows key scientific and engineering principles.
What does a software engineer do? Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills
Software engineers work to develop and create computer software and systems. They apply engineering discipline and scientific methods to the process of coding.
Some employers use this job title interchangeably with that of a software developer or a systems developer . In many organisations software engineering is seen as a more ‘technical’ role, whereas software development roles can offer more opportunities for creativity. However, the exact responsibilities of the role will depend on the employers and, within the sector, there is a lot of crossover between these job functions. IT professionals often debate the definitions between themselves.
Software engineers are typically involved with development projects from the very beginning, liaising with clients and stakeholders to understand the required functionality and features of the system or software. They will then write requirements and plan what needs to be developed and how (such as choosing frameworks, tools and languages). They also ensure that development follows key scientific and engineering principles, as well as the established processes for development. This aspect of the role is especially important in the engineering and manufacturing industries.
The actual coding of software may be done by a separate team of software developers or by the software engineers themselves, depending on the employer. After the development of the product has been completed, engineers will be involved in analysing and identifying any potential problems in order to improve and maintain the software in the long term.
To find out more about working life as a software engineer, as well as about developments affecting the field, read our profile of a principal software engineer at BAE Systems here .
Typical employers of software engineers
Employers of software engineers include:
- software development companies
- websites and any organisation that manages websites
- engineering firms
- technology consultancies
- telecommunications companies
- banks and financial services firms
- public sector organisations
- manufacturers.
Jobs are advertised online, by careers services and specialist technical recruitment agencies, in newspapers and in relevant industry publications such as Computer Weekly and targetjobs IT & Technology .
