SOFTWARE ENGINEER SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

What skills does a Software Engineer need to have?

To work as a Software Engineer, you'll need to develop a wide range of skills.

Hard skills include:

Proficiency in computer programming languages (such as Java, C++, and C#)
Understanding of operating systems (eg. Windows, Unix/Linux)
Knowledge of software development technologies (for example, Microsoft Visual Studio, Eclipse).
Familiarity with relational databases and SQL
Ability to produce technical documentation and diagrams as required

Soft skills include:

Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
Teamwork
Ability to coordinate a project and keep it on track by managing each stage from start to finish
Excellent communication abilities

The most qualified program developers will have considerable expertise across a wide range of project types and coding languages. Working knowledge of source control systems and the ability to go through the software development lifecycle are also required.

How can someone learn essential Software Engineer skills?

There are many ways to learn the skills needed to work as a Software Engineer.

Some of the most common include:

Computer science, information technology, or related degrees from a university
Third-party companies provide short courses in coding languages, operating systems, and development tools (for example, Microsoft)
Hundreds of video tutorials on the web that walk you through typical Software Engineering activities (like Google Code University)

For the most part, it's less about what you know than what you can do with it. Because technology is always evolving, the most in-demand workers are those who can swiftly change course.

The greatest way to get started on your path to becoming a Software Engineer is to gain as much technical expertise as possible and then apply it to real-world projects.

Looking to upskill? Hays Learning for IT professionals offers free tech courses online across a wide array of topics which can be completed at your own pace. Get started here.

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Do you need to go to university to be a Software Engineer?

While a formal education is not required for a job (some employers will accept a strong portfolio), it is the route taken by most working in the industry today.

What qualifications does a Software Engineer need?

Software Engineer qualifications generally consist of degrees in computer science, information technology, or a closely related discipline. There are various post-graduate educational pathways such as Master of Engineering (Software) that can help you gain more knowledge and abilities that will help you in your job search.

The most essential thing for Software Engineers is to have the appropriate programming languages, tools, and procedures mastered. Microsoft provides certifications in Visual Studio, .NET, and Azure development tools, among other things. These certifications are particularly valuable when an employer requests them or when you want to advance your career.

How can a Software Engineer upskill throughout their career?

Keeping up with the newest technology developments will ensure that you stay competitive. The ideal approach to keep your skills up to date is to:

As required by your job, you'll learn new programming languages and development tools
Take short courses in areas that will help you advance your career or change roles (for example, web design and mobile device coding)
Understand which certifications are industry-standard and which will help you in specific areas of your career
Read industry publications to stay on top of emerging technologies, tools, and techniques

Upskilling has traditionally been quite costly and time-consuming for many IT professionals, but Hays Learning, in partnership with Go1, is frequently updated with new free online courses covering the most in-demand IT skills. Sign up now for free.