Software Engineer

What is a Software Engineer? 

Software engineer are individuals that build, design and test software applications for user. These applications allow us to do daily tasks on our computers and electronic devices. An example of this would be social media applications or productivity applications. 

Benefits of Being a Software Engineer

Do you want to become a Software Engineer, but don’t know what makes it a good job? Here you will find three most thought of benefits when choosing a job. As you read the following benefits you will see that this is a one of a kind job.

Job Security 

Software engineering falls under IT careers and is a high in demand position. Businesses rely on software engineers to secure, maintain, create and design their databases. This means that as a software engineer, you will always have a job.

Location and Flexibility

Majority of your work will be done on your computer, so you can work from anywhere you want. This can be at home, the beach or the office. You can freelance in your free time or if you enjoy working on your own time, you can do freelance work for good. 

Software Engineer Salary 

This is the most exciting benefit of all. With the demand for software engineers, you have great potential to earn up to six figures a year. As an intern you can earn up to R95,865 a year. You can increase your earnings by gaining more experience. 

Average yearly earnings:

• Intern –  R95,865
• Junior Software Engineer – R199,045
• Software Engineer – R219,000 – R687,000
• Senior Software Engineer – R423,000 – R956,00

These numbers are correct at the time of writing this article.

Here are companies that you could work for in South Africa:

• Entelect Solutions
• Datacentrix
• Vodafone
• DVT
• Nedbank

How Long will I Study to Become a Software Engineer?

Here at Skills Academy we understand that no one wants to wait years to start their career. We have a variety of courses, dedicated to giving you a start to your career. The average duration for our courses is 12 month, but you can complete them at your own pace. Our Computer Course will give you knowledge and define your skills.

• Computer Courses
• Microsoft Office Specialist Courses
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate Courses
• Microsoft Technology Associate Courses
• Microsoft Windows Courses
• Computer Repair Courses
• Microsoft Office 2010 Courses

What are the Characteristics of a Software Engineer?

It is common knowledge that software engineers are smart people. Being booksmart won’t make you unique or great at your job. There are a few traits that will complement the knowledge you have.

Here are a few characteristics of a good Software Engineer:

• Discipline 
• Motivated 
• Good communication skills – written and verbal 
• Time management 
• Continuous learning 

Different Types of Software Engineers

Software engineering is a broad field. Each developer has their own set of tasks that they focus on. The two primary types of Software Engineer are application and  systems software developers .

Application Engineer

These engineers are more client focused. They create software for Android, windows, and many more. These engineers also build applications that users interact with. Application engineers work on the front and back end of projects.

Systems Engineer

These engineers are responsible for the back end of software. This includes maintaining and updating IT documents, design and enforce IT standards. These developers work with development teams, data science professionals and senior management.

How do I Become a Software Engineer?

This career is constantly changing.  It is important that you are able to adapt to technology as it develops. Since technology is always developing, there are many ways to enter into this IT career. 

Here are a few things you can do to become a Software Engineering professional: 

• Set clear goals for yourself 
• Practice your skills daily
• Look for internships while doing our courses 
• Interact with other software engineers and build up contacts
• Promote yourself and your work