What Is a Software Developer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Software developers design and create computer software programs and systems for their employer or client. Their job is to apply the principles of engineering, analytics, and computer science toward the development and testing of all kinds of software and applications. On a day-to-day basis, a software developer helps create and test software from start to finish. They discuss and analyze user requests and requirements, then research and brainstorm practical solutions to meet those needs, and determine the best course of action to create the application. As a software developer, you may develop an entirely new program or improve an existing one; you are responsible for a program’s overall framework and must design precise workflow charts that explain to programmers what code is needed for different aspects of the program.

Most of the current software developers in the industry hold a bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Some continued and also earned a master's degree. But a substantial number of software developers who learned the trade without a formal degree; they may have completed a certificate program at a vocational school or attended coding bootcamps. Others learned to code on their own through available online resources. While many employers still prefer candidates to have a degree, the most important characteristic they look for is the ability to stay current with new technological updates and to adjust to the changing technological landscape.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for computer science positions is predicted to grow 11% between 2014 and 2024—higher than the projected growth rate for other occupations. This is a fast-growing industry with nearly limitless employment opportunities for the right candidate.

Software engineers facilitate the first steps of computer software program creation. They are responsible for meeting with clients and users to determine their needs and wants. These scientists are in charge of brainstorming tactics and methods for implementation. Once the software engineer’s research and project outline is complete, they pass on the project to a software developer for build-out. On smaller projects, the responsibilities of a software engineer are carried out by a software developer, who is technically trained to handle software creation from beginning to end. However, larger organizations and projects prefer to contract specialists in each of these branches of software creation.

Job Summary

We are currently seeking an experienced and highly-skilled Software Developer to join our development team. You will collaborate with our designers to create and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs to meet the needs of our clients. Once the design is approved, you will oversee the installation of the program and troubleshoot any issues or bugs that arise. Our ideal candidate has at least two years of professional experience in software development and an impressive portfolio of past work.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with IT team to determine the scope and expectations of the project
• Produce clean, efficient code based on client specifications
• Integrate software components and third-party programs to meet specifications
• Troubleshoot, debug, and upgrade existing software
• Gather and evaluate user feedback and make adjustments as necessary

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, engineering or a related field
• 2+ years of experience as a software developer, software engineer, or similar role
• Strong working knowledge of Agile development methodologies
• Extensive experience with software design and development in a test-driven environment
• Solid knowledge of coding languages (e.g. C++, Java, JavaScript) and frameworks/systems (e.g. AngularJS, Git)
• Relevant experience with databases and Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) frameworks (e.g. Hibernate)
• Able and willing to learn new languages and technologies
• Excellent communication skills