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Software Engineer or Developer

Software Engineer or Developer Image

Software engineers or developers design and develop the programs which tell computers to perform specified functions, such as controlling complex manufacturing processes or aerospace systems. They may also be called systems developers or the name of a specific programming language, for example Java, C# or C++, may be in the title.

The Work

You could be:

Most software engineers and developers are familiar with a range of applications and languages, but you might specialise in one particular type.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:

The starting salary can be in the range of £21,000 to £30,000 a year. Senior or lead programmers and developers can earn up to £60,000 a year or more. You might earn extra through bonuses or performance related pay.

If you have specialist skills you may earn more through contract work.

Conditions

Workforce Employment Status

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Getting In

There are jobs with a wide range of organisations: software houses, IT consultants, the armed forces, central and local government, public utilities, the media, the aerospace, telecommunications, banking and electronics industries.

Opportunities are good. You will find jobs advertised on the internet.

Workforce Education Levels (UK)

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Job Outlook Scotland

Employment

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Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland
2022
20754
2.6 %
RISE
2027
21297
  United Kingdom
2022
308843
2.7 %
RISE
2027
317272

LMI data powered by EMSI UK

What Does it Take?

You need to have:

You should be able to:

Training

Getting On

More Information

If you are considering a career in IT, take a look at the Tech Future Careers website. You will find the video case studies of workers and general information on the industry useful.

For more information please see organisation below:

EngineeringUK

Video

Courtesy of This is Engineering

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