How to have a great Tech career?

One morning, if you want to become a writer, the two important tips would be to write and read a lot. Similarly, if you wish to become a good software engineer, there are two things that you will have to ace; read and write good codes and the ability to work on the latest technologies.

So, what does a software engineer do? A software engineer builds, designs, improves, and tests software programs. With the advancement of technologies, the demand for good software engineers is increasing. Almost every domain has a need for a software engineer.  Also, the roles and responsibilities of a software engineer are challenging and quite enterprising. Besides this, the salaries of the engineers are varied and increase with additional responsibilities.

The salary of a software engineer is determined by two factors; one the skills and knowledge that you possess and the other being the experience level.

Qualifications to Become a Software Engineer

Gone are the days when a simple engineering degree would suffice to get a deserving job with leading tech companies. Here are some of the important factors that you need to become a software engineer:

• Along with a basic bachelors’ degree in engineering, software engineers are required to possess relevant technical skills and problem-solving abilities. 
• If you are able to write good codes, then the company will not think twice to hire you
• Carrying a good attitude, critically thinking through the problems help in bringing out the software engineer in you. 
• You need to be dedicated towards work, enroll for the right coding course if you feel the need for skill enhancement
• Gain hands-on experience of working on the latest technologies.

Skills needed to become a software engineer

Tech companies are choosing candidates with relevant skillset. Also, the talent with practical knowledge is preferred over the ones with theoretical knowledge. So, if you wish to become a good software engineer, here are some skills you need to possess:

• Possess the knowledge of the latest programming languages
• Ability to read and write codes
• Knowledge of other programming aspects like algorithms, software debugging testing, software architecture, and analysis of the data
• Confidence and experience of working on the latest technology
• Possess the relevant industry skills

With so many online and offline courses in the market, it is natural to get confused in selecting the right course to become a good software engineer. In order to become a good software engineer, you need to first analyze your existing skills. Based on that, make a decision of joining either beginners, intermediate or advanced courses for skill enhancements.

The best course is one that follows the experiential learning method. Under this type of learning, you get a chance to gain practical experience of working on the latest technologies under the guidance of mentors. 

Career Options for software engineers

A software engineer is a widely used terminology. In fact, under this role, there are many sub-roles that you can choose based on your strengths. Here are some of the roles that you may want to consider:

• Front-End Developers

If you take up the role of a front end developer, you will be specializing in writing codes for the part of the tech product that the users will see and interact with. For example, websites and applications. For this, you need to be good at technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

• Back-End Developers

As a back-end developer, you will write codes for the websites or apps that interact with servers to display the right information. For this, you need to be well-versed with programming languages like Python, Node.js, PHP, etc.

• Full Stack Developers

As a full-stack developer, you will perform both front-end and back-end functions. You will be required to develop an app or a website from scratch. Companies prefer hiring full-stack developers.

• Testers

Once a software program is developed, it is important to ensure its smooth functioning. As a tester, you will be required to look for bugs or glitches that may prevent the program from running. 

Software Architects

Just as the word denotes, an architect is someone who makes the design choice and sets the technical standards like coding standards, tools to be used, and platforms, while developing a program. If you have the right experience and expertise, you can become an architect.

Mobile Developers

With the increased use of smartphones and other devices, mobile apps and optimized websites are in demand. As a mobile developer, you will be developing apps that are compliant with all types of smartphones. 

Salary of a software engineer

A good software engineer can expect a starting salary of approximately Rs 4 to 8 lakhs p.a. If you manage to achieve your goals and if you outperform, then you can expect at least a 10 to 15% hike in your salary package as compared to other professions.

Besides, if you have a good certification, then the starting salary may also be different and much higher depending on the place from where you have got your certificate.

Given the current COVID pandemic scenario looming worldwide, software engineering is already seeing huge demand and is likely to grow in the future. With many opportunities lingering around you, it is imperative that you enroll for the right Bootcamp or fellowship program and reinvent your career. If you wish to make it big in the software developing space, then check out the immersive Bootcamp CodINClub, powered by BridgeLabz Solutions.