Software Developers
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Software Developers earn a median of $65.38/hr — about $136,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $39.64/hr; the top 10% earn $103.21/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually do
- Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.
- Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.
- Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.
- Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
- Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
- Coordinate installation of software system.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
The feel of the work
The work is mostly indoors; much of the day is spent working solo. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)
Working for yourself
About 1.6% of software developers are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are analytical, organized and detail-focused and hands-on.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Computer Network Architects
- Database Architects
- Computer and Information Research Scientists
- Information Security Analysts
- Data Scientists
- Computer Occupations, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a software developer make?
- The median pay is $65.38 per hour — roughly $136,000 a year, with the real range running from about $39.64/hr (10th percentile) to $103.21/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a software developer?
- The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
- What does a software developer actually do all day?
- Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system. Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints. Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.
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