Career Advice
Paul Brown
26.11.21
Thinking about a career in tech? There are many benefits to pursuing a role in Software Development, including endless career opportunities, excellent earning potential and the high demand for Software Developers to keep pace with today’s continuous technological advancements. Read on to find out more about the Software Developer job description, key skills for a Software Developer and much more.
We’ll cover the following topics:
- What does a Software Developer do?
- What are the key responsibilities for a Software Developer?
- What skills does a software developer need?
- What types of companies employ Software Developers?
- What training or qualifications are required to become a Software Developer?
What does a Software Developer do?
Software Developers are the creative minds and problem-solvers behind computer programmes. Working as a Software Developer, you will play a key part in developing new software systems to meet user requirements or working on existing software to improve user experience and implement additional features.
Roles and responsibilities of a Software Developer
The main roles and responsibilities within the Software Developer job description include:
- Reviewing existing software systems to identify areas of improvement or solve issues
- Working collaboratively with Analysts and Designers to create new products
- Creating specifications for new software systems
- Writing up code for new software systems
- Software testing to ensure system functionality and usability
- Creating training materials for end users
- System maintenance to update and improve software post-delivery
What are the skills required to get a software job?
The key skills for a Software Developer include:
- Numeracy skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Programming languages
- Excellent communication skills
- Willing to learn
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Time management skills
- Organisational skills
Who employs Software Developers?
Software Developers are in demand in all industries, not just the technology industry or Software Development companies. Some examples include banks, retail, healthcare and government organisations. Software Development is an extremely diverse role that offers countless opportunities to work in an industry you are truly passionate about. This could see you developing anything from state-of-the-art banking applications to life-changing medical training simulation technology!
What training and qualifications do you need to become a Software Developer?
To pursue a career in Software Development, you often require a university degree in a relevant subject, such as Computer Science, in addition to work experience in the industry and prior programming skills. Depending on the specific role you are applying for, you may also need any of the following qualifications: Java, C++, Linux and NET.
At FDM, we offer an alternative route to starting a successful career in Software Development with no previous experience: the FDM Software Development Graduate Programme. Our Software Development Programme provides you with comprehensive training, covering everything you need to know to work as a Software Developer, including programming languages, Agile Scrum methodologies and DevOps.
After training, you will then have the opportunity to work with our industry-leading clients as part of their internal development teams and gain real-world work experience. We also offer a range of support and development programmes to help you every step of the way.
For more information about working in Software Development or to kickstart a career as a Software Developer, check out the FDM Software Development Graduate Programme.