Software Designers

Overview

Introduction

Software designers, also known as software developers, create new ideas and design prepackaged and customized computer software. Systems software designers create systems software such as computer operating systems, proprietary computer systems for businesses and other organizations, and operating systems that control consumer electronics in cars, big-box appliances, and smartphones. These systems make it possible for computers to complete given tasks and to solve problems. Software applications designers ...

Quick Facts


Median Salary

$130,390

Employment Prospects

Excellent

Minimum Education Level

Bachelors Degree


Experience

Several years programming experience


Skills

Computer|Information Management|Math


Personality Traits

Creative|Problem-Solving|Scientific

Earnings

Salaries for software designers vary with the size of the company and by location. Salaries may be slightly higher in areas where there is a large concentration of computer companies, such as the Silicon Valley and San Francisco in northern California and Texas, Virginia, Massachusetts, Washington, New York, and other states.

Software developers specializing in systems software earned me...

Work Environment

Software designers work in comfortable environments. Many computer companies are known for their casual work atmosphere; employees generally do not have to wear suits, except during client meetings. Overall, software designers work standard weeks. However, they may be required to work overtime near a deadline. It is common in software design to share office or cubicle space with two or three co...

Outlook

Employment of software developers is expected to grow by 18 percent through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, or much faster than the average for all careers. Increasing demand for software in the health care industry, the expanding integration of software technologies by businesses, the skyrocketing popularity of mobile devices (which require new applications) and computer games...