A software engineer typically works with programmers and other individuals to create computer code for an application. This can make entirely new software, or produce an update for existing work. Day-to-day tasks in this field often involve things like creating flowcharts and diagrams that demonstrate how applications function so that programmers can write the necessary code for a program. Many of these engineers have a degree in computer science and often work full time at various companies that create or maintain software.
Duties and Responsibilities
Many companies employ software engineers to assemble extensive amounts of code into working applications, as well as to update and fix problems in existing software. The exact work necessary to do this, however, can vary quite a bit from one project to another. Programmers often work with a software engineer to determine what is needed when making a new application, and the engineer plans out how to best accomplish these tasks. He or she might do some programming personally, though often other programmers create all of the code; the software engineer must have a strong knowledge of various coding languages and methodologies even if he or she does not do the coding.
Necessary Skills
A software engineer usually has a strong background in mathematics and understands how programming works at a fundamental level. Communication skills are often vital in this field, since engineers frequently have to determine the needs of different clients and help explain the options that might best satisfy them. Engineers also typically understand leadership and task management, letting them work better with a team to ensure they meet goals on time.
How To Become One
Many people in this career have degrees in computer science, though related fields like mathematics may work in some instances. A bachelor's degree is usually sufficient, at least for entry-level positions, and a number of schools offer graduate degrees in computer science for advanced study. Professional experience may also be necessary for a software engineer, who may have previously worked in programming or development. While software developers often have need of engineers, hardware manufacturers, major ecommerce websites, and video game studios may also hire people for this position.
Importance and Job Outlook
As the need for a software engineer in many companies has grown, this has become a very popular career field. Economically, socially, and politically, computers are changing the world, and these engineers help build the tools that drive such changes. Employment experts predict that opportunities in this field are likely to continue growing in the near future. Software development has become increasingly competitive, however, so structured training and professional experience are more important than ever before.
Work Environment
A software engineer often works as part of a team, usually in an office or similar location. Many engineers work full time, often 40 or more hours per week, with additional time required during certain phases of the development cycle. Long hours at a computer can lead to eye strain, headaches, and medical conditions like carpal-tunnel syndrome, so anyone getting into programming should learn to take breaks and make an effort to avoid such potentially serious issues. This position typically pays quite well, though exact amounts depend on individual companies and the level of seniority held by an engineer.
Debate over Job Title
There is some debate over the term "engineer" as it applies to this position. Some people feel that software development is not held to the same rigorous standards as fields such as electrical engineering, and therefore should not be associated with them. Companies use this title without any professional licensure, which is a hallmark of many other engineering disciplines. As of 2012, however, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) began developing a test for software engineer licensing, though full adoption of this standard may take some time.
The Role of a Software Test Engineer
A software test engineer is usually responsible for testing new computer software or programs before the product is sold to consumers to ensure that it works properly, performs the desired functions, and is free from defects. These computer professionals usually design and perform the tests, evaluate the results, and make recommendations based on final conclusions. They often work as part of a quality assurance team, and work cooperatively with other quality assurance personnel such as computer programmers.
The software test engineer is involved in multiple phases of the development process, since new products must be tested continuously at various stages so that problems can be found and fixed quickly. New software is usually tested during several development phases including design, programming, installation, and maintenance. Software test engineers try to simulate many different usage scenarios to determine if the software performs as intended. They specifically check to see if the software accurately performs the functions it is designed for, and if it performs them in a reliable, consistent manner without any major difficulties. They also test for internet security issues.
Testing Methodologies
There are two primary points of view a software test engineer uses while testing called white and black box testing. During white box testing, the tester uses an internal point of view. This means he or she is evaluating the structure of the programming, and is actually able to track the flow of information through the software and pinpoint where issues occur within the program.
In black box testing, the software test engineer assumes an external point of view, or the point of view of the software user. This means that he or she is testing as many different inputs of information as possible and evaluating the results of those inputs, but can't see exactly where things go wrong if problems do occur.
Evaluating Results and Implementing Solutions
Once testing is completed, a software test engineer is responsible for evaluating and analyzing the results. Often, he or she will then work on designing solutions to any flaws that are found, as well as ways to improve the software's performance. The results and suggested solutions are communicated to other members of the quality assurance team, and the improvements are usually implemented by programmers. After that, the software is tested and evaluated again to determine if the improvements have the desired effect. The process continues until the team members are satisfied that the software is performing to expectations.
The work software test engineers perform is increasingly important and valuable as society grows more and more dependent on properly functioning computers in all walks of life.