Computer Software Engineers, Applications Overview
There is an expected increase in jobs available for computer applications software engineers who meet and fulfill the necessary requirements required by the individual employer.
Computer applications software engineers will have the best job opportunities when they have completed a bachelor’s degree or higher as well as relevant work experience.
Nature of the Work for Computer Software Engineers, Applications
Computer applications software engineers are responsible for developing and design different types of software. By combining theories of mathematics with computer science, computer applications software engineers can create and test applications and software that help computers perform properly.
The work of a computer applications software engineer involves maintaining general computer applications software and specialized utility programs by maintaining, constructing, and deploying such applications. Unlike computer software engineers, computer applications software engineers use different programming languages such as C++, Java, Python or C. Some computer application software engineers can develop packaged computer applications, but most adapt or create customized applications.
Computer applications software engineers usually work 40 hours a week. Some computer applications software engineers may even work 50 hours a week. Due to long periods spent at the computer keyboard, some computer applications software engineers will feel eyestrain, back discomfort, or hand and wrist problems.
Computer applications software engineers usually work in clean and comfortable offices where computer equipment can be found. Those who work for consulting forms or software vendors may travel frequently to meet with customers, which can also affect the amount of hours they work each week.
Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement for Computer Software Engineers, Applications
Computer applications software engineers usually have atleast a bachelor’s degree, although a master’s degree may be preferred by employers for some positions. Along with this degree, employers prefer to hire those with relevant work experience.
Most computer applications software engineers major in computer science, mathematics or software engineering.
Employers prefer to hire college graduates with degrees in computer and information science if they use computers for engineering or scientific applications. Employers prefer to hire those who have taken courses in business or management information systems when using computers for business applications.
Computer applications software engineers can gain access to better employment opportunities by internships or obtaining programming skills and expertise.
Many employers offer their computer applications software engineers to participate in seminars as well as continuing education classes to brush up on technological advancements. Depending on the industry in which they work, computer applications software engineers should also have skills related to that particular industry.
Computer applications software engineers looking for employment can become certified by a product vendor or software firm, which can help them in the job seeking process since employers prefer to hire certified candidates.
Problem-solving skills, analytical skills, creativity, working well with others, communication skills and being able to work with abstract concepts are important qualifications for computer applications software engineers.
Computer applications software engineers can advance in their career after gaining enough experience. Advancements can include becoming a project manager, chief information officer or manager of information systems. They can also work as systems designers or independent consultants.
Employment and Job Outlook for Computer Software Engineers, Applications
Out of the 1.3 million jobs held by computer software engineers and computer programmers, around 495,500 jobs are held by computer applications software engineers. Computer applications software engineers can work in varying industries such as those who work in computer systems design as well as other related services. Some computer applications software engineers also work for software publishers, insurance providers, financial institutions, manufacturers of computers and other related electronic equipment services.
Job opportunities for computer applications software engineers will be best for those with relevant experience and a bachelor’s degree. Jobs for computer applications software engineers are expected to grow 32 percent. Many new jobs will also be created for computer applications software engineers.
There will be a demand for computer software engineers as computer networking grows, such as engineers who can help develop internet and World Wide Web applications.
Computer applications software engineers will also be in demand due to new advancements in technology and the increasing use of web sites and the internet. As handheld computers gain more popularity, there will be a need for mobile applications and software systems provided by computer applications software engineers. s Computer applications software engineers will also be in demand as cyber security concerns increase and businesses begin purchasing computer protection software.
Even though computer applications software engineering jobs require research and innovation, some companies are outsourcing offshore to cut costs that stem from employment.
Computer applications software engineers with strong programming skills as well as interpersonal and business skills will have the most job opportunities. Jobs will also need to be filled by computer applications software engineers who retire or leave the occupation. As businesses customize and update their computer systems, computer applications software engineering jobs will begin to open.
Earnings and Salary for Computer Software Engineers, Applications
Median annual wages of wage-and-salary computer applications software engineers are $87,480. The middle 50 percent earn between $69,230 and $107,710. The lowest 10 percent earn less than $54,840, and the highest 10 percent earn more than $132,080.