Table of Contents
What does an application software engineer do on a day-to-day basis?
Application software engineers are the developers who write code to create applications. They will usually be involved in a team of people, working on a project for a client. They oversee the project to ensure progress is being made, they will also be in charge of making sure that the project meets the client’s expectations. For example, if the client wants changes made to an existing application, the engineer will often be responsible for making those changes.
Function:
Application software engineers have a diverse set of responsibilities. This means that you may be expected to do any one of a number of things depending on where you work and what kind of project you are working for. This section will explore the various tasks that an application software engineer is likely to perform. The main ones are described below.
Aspects of the job
There are many facets to the job of an application software engineer. You may find that most are familiar, but there is always something new that comes up and it will be your job to help make sure that the project stays on track and meets the client’s expectations. It can be a very challenging, rewarding and enjoyable job. If you have previous software engineering experience, you likely already know what you will be doing as an application software engineer. If not, it is still a very manageable task to learn. The first step is to make sure that you have a good understanding of the terms and ideas which may be unfamiliar as you become acquainted with the job.
Client meetings/rapport:
The skills and experience that are necessary to become an application software engineer
Experience working with code is essential and having a degree in software engineering proves that you have the necessary knowledge. From there, you will need to build a portfolio of your work and show it to companies looking for people like you. Experience of writing and updating code for existing applications is also needed, along with some business knowledge so that you can complete tasks in line with the organization’s objectives for clients.
Education [to use as knowledge, not to be copied verbatim]: At least a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering (BSSE), Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) majoring in Information Systems.
Experience [to use as knowledge, not to be copied verbatim]: Experience working with code is essential and having a degree in software engineering proves that you have the necessary knowledge. From there, you will need to build a portfolio of your work and show it to companies looking for people like you. Experience of writing and updating code for existing applications is also needed, along with some business knowledge so that you can complete tasks in line with the organization’s objectives for clients.
How much money can you make as an application software engineer
The average salary for an application software engineer is $80,000 a year. This number is influenced by the level at which you work and therefore it can differ from state to state. However, this figure doesn’t factor in experience or skill which will influence the salary you receive. The top 10% of application software engineers can make up to $100,000 a year and the bottom 10% may earn as little as $40,000. It’s likely that with experience and skill you’ll move into the top 10%.
The pros and cons of being an application software engineer
The pros of being an application software engineer are that you get to work in a team, working with people from different backgrounds and skill sets to create something. You will be able to see the fruits of your labor through the finished product and can share that with the world. Another upside is that you get to work on a variety of projects and this will keep your work interesting. You will also have the pressure of completing work to an exacting standard.
On the other hand, there is the downside of working with people who don’t share the same goals and understanding as you. This can lead to what is known as “groupthink” which can make it difficult to create something new. There are also project deadlines, due dates that you know will be hard to meet. You will have to deal with politics, which can cause conflict within a group and even within a project.
There are also social pressures that come from your work environment. You will have to deal with people who are different and may even end up being a minority. This can be a very difficult situation if you are not mature enough to handle it, though that’s what makes it interesting. You need to take responsibility for your own actions and not allow others to control you in your work environment. There are several times that I have felt confused and alone; though I’m sure you will know this feeling when you’ve experienced it.
The ups and downs of working as a software application engineer.
