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How To Get a Software Engineer Job in 10 Steps

May 20, 2021

By: Indeed Editorial Team

Software engineering can provide a variety of job opportunities, no matter your career level. With some research into the different roles and areas you can work in, you can find software engineering jobs that match your unique skills and expertise. While looking for the perfect software engineering job can seem challenging, there are several approaches you can use to find the role that suits you best. In this article, we discuss what a software engineer is and explain how to successfully get a software engineer job.

What is a software engineer?

A software engineer is a technical professional who designs, develops, builds and tests computer software. These professionals have strong technical knowledge, a deep understanding of computer science and specific engineering skills regarding the development of computer and mobile software programs and applications. Software engineers may work as part of a team of software engineers and developers to bring a project to completion.

Software engineers may also work independently to provide technical software support, maintain software systems and integrate new updates to various applications. Additionally, software engineers can work across many industries and apply their skills and expertise to design programs for use in businesses, academics, healthcare, manufacturing, finance and construction fields.

How to get a software engineer job

If you're interested in a career as a software engineer, there are many approaches you can take to get into the industry and secure a position. Depending on your level of experience, the following steps can be effective approaches to finding a software engineering job:

1. Complete your education and training

The most important step to securing a job as a software engineer is to complete any necessary education or training in the field. For instance, if you are just starting out on your career path, consider earning a degree in software engineering, software development, computer engineering or another related field.

If you have credentials and experience in software engineering, consider any additional training you may need that can demonstrate your skills, knowledge and expertise. For example, earning an additional degree such as a bachelor's or master's in computer or software engineering can advance your skill set and prepare you for a higher-level software engineering role.

2. Gain experience in an internship

With minimal experience as a software engineer, it can be beneficial to complete an internship or work contract to gain more experience in the field. If you choose to pursue a degree in software engineering, for example, you may need to complete an internship to earn credit for your degree. Internships, externships and job shadowing are all excellent ways to gain additional experience in software engineering and can help you develop your skills and enhance your credentials.

3. Pursue entry-level roles

Working in entry-level roles as a junior engineer or engineering assistant can also help you build your experience. Many employers consider candidates with proven work experience, especially for leadership, management and senior-level roles. If you're looking for ways to increase your work experience in addition to completing an internship, consider pursuing entry-level roles that support your skill development, professional improvement and knowledge in the industry.

4. Build a professional portfolio

Each software project you contribute to and complete is important to showcase to potential employers. Create a portfolio that you can refer to when providing your contact information in professional networks and when interviewing. Employers are more likely to consider you when they can see proven records of your approaches to software design, implementation, testing and maintenance. Keep your portfolio up-to-date just like your resume, too, so recruiters, hiring managers and other professionals in your network can see evidence of your latest projects and contributions.

5. Keep your resume up to date

As you build your experience, advance your skills and develop your industry knowledge, update your resume to reflect your accomplishments. For instance, if you earn a certification or learn a new skill for developing software frameworks, be sure your resume reflects these achievements to show to employers when looking for a job. Additionally, give details on your resume about additional training, degrees or other accolades you receive throughout your career.

6. Earn a professional certification

The field of software development and engineering is broad and can provide many opportunities to advance through certification programs. Depending on your professional interests, career goals and software engineering focus, you can pursue certifications for many applications specific to your field. For instance, certifications in specific programming languages, in engineering subfields and in database management are several credentials to consider when advancing in your career and qualifying for higher-paying or higher-level positions.

7. Network with other industry professionals

Expand your network by reaching out to other professionals in software development, engineering and computer science. Participate in collaborative projects, provide your experience in volunteer roles and get active in your professional networks. As you build relationships with other software engineering professionals, you can inquire about open positions and any need companies may have for a qualified and talented software engineer. Building a network of industry professionals can also give you the opportunities to ask for feedback on your work, share your resume, publicize your portfolio and receive recommendations.

8. Attend job fairs in your industry

Job fairs and professional workshops are excellent approaches to meeting potential employers and networking with others. Software engineering, computer science and information technology career events often provide many opportunities to share your portfolio and resume, connect with experienced professionals and communicate your interest in open positions. Attending industry job fairs can also give you the opportunity to learn about open roles and software companies you may have been unaware of previously.

9. Visit companies in person

You can also visit different companies in person to ask about open positions and discuss your professional background and interests. If you visit software companies in person, bring several copies of your resume and be sure to include links to your portfolio. While many employers often publicize open positions for software engineers, some companies may have upcoming roles that the public doesn't know about yet. In these cases, visiting in person can sometimes be beneficial for learning about these kinds of opportunities.

10. Apply to online job boards

Take advantage of online job boards that focus on software engineering, software development and other technical professions. Consider making your resume and portfolio public so potential employers, recruiters and hiring managers can review your credentials. When browsing online job boards, you can usually apply keywords and phrases to find jobs that are local to you, that fit your salary requirements and that suit your qualifications. Additionally, some job boards let you demonstrate specific skills with aptitude and career assessments, further showcasing your job qualifications for potential employers.

Tips for your software engineer job search

As you begin your job search for a software engineering role, consider the following tips:

Research the company. Take time to learn about each organization you apply to. For instance, learn about the company's goals, current challenges and overall culture to understand how you will fit the role.
Contact the organization. Communicate with the organization directly to learn about any opportunities or upcoming jobs. Give your contact information to professionals you speak with so that employers are aware of your interest in their company.
Send a follow-up. Whenever you meet a potential employer and communicate about possible job opportunities, it's important to follow up later on. In a follow-up email or phone call, you can reiterate your interest in contributing and discuss how you can help the company succeed.
Offer your support. When speaking with potential employers and other industry professionals, offer ways to help them achieve an objective, solve a challenge or complete a project. Your desire to apply your unique skills and talents to overcome challenges with others can help you stand out from others when looking for a job.
Take part in trade shows. If you have an accomplishment in your career field relating to software engineering, consider speaking or giving a presentation at a trade show or industry event. Your motivation to develop in your profession and contribute to the industry can help you impress potential employers.
Contribute to industry journals. Along with contributions to trade shows and industry events, consider contributing to online magazines and journals. You can share your software engineering knowledge, build a professional and personal community and share your work and portfolio with potential employers.
Develop and apply your skills. Take on challenges and develop new skills that you can apply to future projects. As you learn new applications in software engineering, add projects to your portfolio and any credentials or awards to your resume to highlight your advancements.