Career Track: Computer Software Engineers


Job Description:
Computer Software Engineers are responsible for a multitude of tasks that are evolving and changing as quickly as technology. According to the U.S.

Department of Labor, professionals in this career are the ones that are "responsible for applying the principles and techniques of computer science,

engineering and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing and evaluation of software and the systems that enable computers to perform their

many applications."
There are basically two sub categories of software engineers, which include:
* Computer Applications Software Engineers * Computer Systems Software Engineers
Applications Software Engineers are responsible for analyzing the needs of the user and then designing, constructing and maintaining the applications or

software. Professionals in this career use programming languages such as C, C++, Java, Fortran and COBOL. Many Software Applications Engineers are

responsible for developing both packed systems and systems software as well as creating customized applications. Computer Systems Software Engineers are

responsible for "coordinating the construction and maintenance of a company's computer systems while planning for future growth." Most Software Engineers

work closely with coworkers as well as customers to ensure their products meet needs and expectations. Opportunities for advancement and industry outlook:
The career outlook for Software Engineers is strong. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, this profession is projected to be one of the fastest growing

occupations between 2002-2012. College graduates with at least a bachelor's degree in computer engineering and practical work experience will have little

trouble finding placement. The only downside is that the increase in offshore contracting may impact this profession as well as others in the IT industry.

Employers will continue to search out professionals with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal and business skills. Adding these to your resume

would be a plus.
Advancement opportunities within the industry continue to grow as professionals add to their experience. While entry level engineers will more than likely be

tasked with testing and verifying designs, more experienced engineers will be involved in designing and developing actual software. The next step on the

career ladder is project management. Once supervisory skills have been established, the door opens to positions like Information Systems Manager, or possibly

Chief Information Officer. Many successful engineers open their own consulting firms.
Educational Requirements:
Most employers require a bachelor's degree and extensive knowledge or experience with a variety of systems and technologies.
Usual degree concentrations are computer science, software engineering, or computer information systems. For some positions, graduate degrees are required.

While program certifications are recommended, they are not considered sufficient for most software engineering jobs unless accompanied by a degree. Also

recommended are strong analytical skills and an attention to detail. Potential Salary:
(According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor)
Position & their respective Salary Range (2003) Median annual earnings of Computer Applications Software Engineers ,900
Median annual earnings of Computer Systems Software Engineers ,040
Starting salary offers for graduates with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering ,343
Starting salary offers for graduates with a Master's degree in Computer Engineering ,200
Starting Salaries for Software Engineers in Software Development ,250 - ,000
Industry Certifications:
Recommended professional certifications include:
* CIW Associate
* CIW Professional
* CIW Security Analyst
* CIW Web Developer
* MCAD.NET
* MCDBA
* MCSD.NET
* RHCE
* SCP J2SE
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