Software Developer Jobs and Careers
Software developers work in almost every major industry, developing a wide variety of applications on different platforms. These applications are essential for many different businesses and organizations, making software development jobs among the fastest growing careers in the US. While specific jobs vary, most roles will involve the design, development, testing, implementation, and support of new software programs. Most software developers will know several different computer languages depending on their specialization.
Software developer jobs are also good careers to pursue if you enjoy working from home, as many independent developers work remotely, either independently or as part of an online team.
Most Common Software Developer Jobs Titles and Descriptions
Here are some of the common software developer jobs as well as their job titles and descriptions.
Mobile application developers create a variety of mobile applications for smartphones and tablets, generally on the iOS or Android operating systems. While many mobile application developers work for larger companies producing apps that work alongside major products or services, an increasing number of independent developers and studios are producing and marketing apps, many of which earn money through in-app purchases or via advertising add-ons.
Average salary: $71,000 annually
Game developers are responsible for developing video games on PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. Game developer jobs range from senior positions at AAA studios to independent developers making indie games, and salaries vary widely. Game development is a competitive, but growing field.
Average salary: $68,000 annually
Web developers design, create, and maintain websites. They make sure their sites perform well and can handle the required capacity, and may also create content or graphics for the site.
Average salary: $62,000 annually
Software engineers design and create software products. These may be produced in-house in a range of industries and organizations, or they may work for companies providing specific programs to a range of businesses. As well as creating applications they also maintain them, provide support, and create updates and patches.
Average salary: $100,000 annually
Senior software developers generally lead a team of people working on high level projects in a range of industries and organizations. They will oversee the design, development, and implementation of new software applications, as well as spearheading their ongoing maintenance and testing and managing their team.
Average salary: $122,000 annually
UI developers create the user interfaces that enable the use of software applications. These interfaces are what you see when you click on a mobile app, use an operating system, or play a video game, and their design and functionality is an extremely important part of software design.
Average salary: $80,000 annually
Software Developer Jobs Salary Statistics and Growth
Wages across the board for software developer jobs average at around $90,000, but can vary widely depending on industry. The independent sector is also growing fast, with many software developers working alone or in small independent studios. Independent software developer salaries are often much lower. Many software developers work as contractors on projects within a variety of industries rather than as permanent staff members, and contractor salaries can be very competitive. Salaries are expected to grow over the next ten years.
Software Developer Jobs Field Growth or Decline
The increased need for software solutions has seen an increase in the demand for software developers, and their employment is projected to grow 22% between 2015 and 2022. Software is becoming more widely used in all areas, as the use of the internet becomes more and more ubiquitous. The increasing popularity of the games industry, which has replaced the movie industry as the world’s number one entertainment provider, and the increase in smartphone use in developing countries has increased the demand for software developers.
Best States for Software Developer Jobs
- California
- Washington
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- New York
- Virginia
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- New Jersey
- Oregon
Software Developer Jobs Certifications, Training, Education Requirements
While most roles require at least a bachelor’s degree, software development is an area in which proven ability can trump education, and many successful developers are self taught. Most software developers will be able to use at least one software language, and generally will learn several more during the course of their career. Learning can be self directed, allowing software developers to enhance their skills as they progress through their career.
Where Can I Go From Here?
Software developers may find employment in many different sectors, including:
- Local and federal government
- Healthcare
- Education
- Industry
- Transport and logistics
- Research and development
Many software developers choose to freelance on a variety of projects specific to the languages they use, or start independent companies offering software solutions.
Top 10 US Employers in This Field
- Juniper Networks
- Apple
- Brocade Communications
- Ebay
- Bloomberg L.P.
- Zynga
Sources:
Posted in Jobs and Careers on Sep 28, 2016
By Admin Adminson, SimplyJobs