How To Be A Software Engineer - A Roadmap To Follow

Finding out how to be a software engineer or developer is challenging for new people. Software engineering is the most sought-after career in the engineering field.

It's a dream ambition that every coder wants: "How to be a software engineer at Google". Software engineering is the highest-paid job in the world. To get this dream job, all it takes is a healthy level of hard work, foresight, ambition, and adaptability. 

Technology is the keyword, and it's solving a lot of issues. Thousand of workers can be reduced in a company just because of introducing software. That's why many people want to be software engineers or developers and love to build something that reduces human hassles.

Are you fascinated by technology and the world of coding? Do you dream of creating innovative software solutions that can change our lives and work? Becoming a software engineer might be the ideal path for you.

Today is your lucky day because we are here to help you to be a software engineer. This blog will help you see the road, but hard work, dedication, and learning are yours.

Let's begin with the basics: "What is software engineering?"

What Is Software Engineering?

A software developer works to create software according to the client's needs. In this case, particular emphasis is placed on the client's demand. 

Software engineering is a broad term. You can mean many things depending on region, company, and the person saying it.

Software engineering is the process of 

• Designing 
• Building
• Testing 
• Deploying 
• complex computer information systems 
• Maintaining customer-facing software products
• Useful tools

A more straightforward definition is "A software engineer is someone who designs programs for computers."

On the other side, "A software engineer writes code for." 

• Hardware
• Operating systems
• Embedded systems
• Networking system 
• Enterprise applications
• Websites or video games.

A software developer builds websites and applications you see in your internet browser.

We have created a complete guide to get a deeper explanation of Full Stack Developer Vs Software Engineer.

How To Be A Software Engineer-Path To Success 

There is no shortcut to how to be a software engineer. You're thinking this field might be for you, but now what? Well, there are many routes to becoming a software engineer.

how hard is it to be a software engineer?

The answer is 

With the right strategies and determination, you can navigate the path to success and establish yourself as a proficient professional. Let's follow the essential steps to guide you on this exciting journey. So let's learn how to be a software engineer.

1. Choosing The Career Path 

The foundation of a successful career as a Software Engineer begins with choosing the career path. There are many positions you can count on within this vast industry. It will help you find your niche.

Let's take a look at some of the job titles that give a beginner a better understanding of how flexible future software engineers can be 

• Front-end Engineers

Front-end engineers concentrate on building the user interface for a website or application.

If you are interested in designing, building, User Interface (UI) and testing the User Experience (UX ), then this path is for you.

You must know "HTML, CSS, JavaScript and their associated frameworks and libraries."

• Back-end Engineers 

If the web application's server-side is your passion, then you know the path. You must deal with web applications, database design, and integrating data feeds in this path.

• Full stack Engineer or developer

Everyone might know the word that is "Allrounder." Allrounder means good at every side. This path is suitable if you want to work the front and back end at a time.

• Mobile App developer 

Are you an Android or iOS freak? The mobile app developer is your option. Mobile engineers build software for tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices.

• Graphics Engineer

Math and computer science students don't get upset. Graphics Engineer is the right choice for them. The role typically involves modelling physics, 2D and 3D graphics, and game mechanics.

• Data Engineer

Data engineers need to understand databases well because database engineers are responsible for storing, organising, managing, and analysing information.

• DevOps Engineer 

It is an area that involves processes and tools that automate, improve and manage the infrastructure.

• Operating system development 

If you want to work with the operating sector, then operating sector development is your best choice.

2. Pursue A Degree

The next step, or the more standard one, for becoming a software engineer is to get a four-year university degree or major in computer science.

A computer science degree from a renowned university gives you the strength and respect of a particular employee. It also helps to build a well-polished resume.

And mind it, a university degree is not cheap 

Also 

It's a lengthy process 

The degree is not so significant, but things like it are an investment because it helps to enrol in more job opportunities.

3. Collect Some Professional Certification 

As you complete your degree and become a software engineer, it takes work. How to be a software engineer path is not complete. Professional certification helps to verify the skill. Here is a list of some of the organisations that offer quality, full professional certification 

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
• SAP Certified Development Associate – SAP HANA 2.0 SPS05
• Cisco Certified Network Associate
• HDP Certified Developer (HDPCD)
• Certified OpenStack Administrator
• Oracle Platform as a Service (PaaS) Certification

4. Mastering Programming Languages

Fluency in programming languages is your toolkit for crafting innovative software solutions. Focus on mastering languages such as 

• Python

Server-side language is commonly used for back-end web development.

• Java

Used for developing applications for different purposes. It's also used for Android and Internet purposes.

• C++

It is used for developing operating systems and Android games.

• JavaScript. 

Javascript is used for front-end and back-end web development.

Each language serves unique purposes, so being versatile in multiple languages widens your scope of contribution and employability.

5. Boot Camps

Finding software engineer jobs and improving technical skills boot camps use as a friend.

The average time of a boot camp is (3-5) months. It's a project-based learning. So, at the end of time, you will get technical skills and base knowledge of practical work.

It's an expensive route to follow, but at the end of the time, practical work matters.

6. Internships and Practical Experience

Internships provide invaluable exposure to the industry's dynamics and workflow. Seek internships with tech companies to gain hands-on experience and insight into the software development life cycle.

Collaborating with experienced professionals improve your skills and provides mentorship opportunities that foster growth. You can also work on projects like v model which also helps to improve your skills and your resume project sections. 

Bdtask is a leading software company, and they are offering a world-class internship opportunity for you guys.

7. Networking and Industry Involvement

Success in software engineering is often intertwined with networking. Attend tech conferences, seminars, and meetups to connect with like-minded individuals and industry leaders. 

Networking exposes you to different perspectives, potential job openings, and the latest advancements, keeping you at the forefront of the field.

8. Learning Is The Key To Success -Learn Data Structure And Algorithms 

Technology evolves rapidly, necessitating a commitment to lifelong learning. Stay updated with emerging trends, frameworks, and tools. Online platforms, such as coding boot camps and e-learning platforms, offer specialised courses that allow you to upskill efficiently and adapt to the evolving landscape. Learning is the key to how to be a software engineer.

Data structure and algorithms are the hot topics during a software engineering job interview because the recruiter's favourite topic is data structure and algorithms.

Data structure and algorithms help any coder or engineer to write maintainable and scalable code.
For the evolving technology and Web3 revolution, many learning scope has been created for software engineers. You can learn about Blockchain technology, Cryptocurrency, NFT, Metaverse, Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and many more. The scope of learning and being an expert is numerous. So, you can choose any career path from the diverse software industry and be a successful software engineer.

9. Building A Strong Portfolio

Theory comes alive through practice. Start building an impressive portfolio of coding projects demonstrating your skills and creativity. Whether it's developing a mobile app, a web application, or a game, these projects showcase your ability to implement solutions and tackle real-world challenges. 

Open-source contributions also underscore your collaborative skills and commitment to the field. Follow for more ideas for a strong portfolio.

10. Apply For The Job

The last and final stage is to apply for the job. Because you will never get the job if you don't apply, you can search for the job on LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, etc.

If you have any desired company to work for, then you can manually apply for it.

In this field times, recruiters also come to you directly, so that is why -

Building a Strong Online Presence is important. 

Maintain an updated LinkedIn profile, contribute to technical blogs, and engage in coding communities like GitHub. 

"An active online presence helps you connect with industry professionals and potential employers."

What Does A Software Developer Do

Before all that, knowing two types of software developers is essential.

• Application software developer 

They are responsible for designing different types of applications software such as games and custom software for client requirements.

• System software developer 

System software developers focused on developing operating systems for consumers or specific organisations.

How to be a software engineer is an easy question to ask. But so many responsibilities and tasks have to be maintained by software engineers.

• Collect and analyse the needs of a user.

• Organise it into user categories to implement user suggestions.

• According to user requirements, use a programming language to design and build software systems.

• Create user-friendly software that is easy to use.

• Maintain existing software system through test and debugging.

• Optimise the code for performance, speed, quality, and scalability.

• Solve any software problem that helps to boost the business.

• Take some necessary notes for the future to share with another team member.

• Always try to find some new features and updates for stakeholders and customers.

Salary Breakdown - How Much A Software Engineer Earn

The foundation of a software engineer's compensation package is the base salary. The engineer receives this fixed amount in exchange for their services. Base salaries can range widely, with junior engineers starting at a lower range and experienced engineers commanding a significantly higher figure. How to be a software engineer and how much a software engineer earns is a basic question that anyone ask so lets find out :

Based on the data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for software engineers is $109,020 annually. Many factors determine the salary range of a software engineer.

Several factors influence the earning potential of a software engineer

1. Experience 

As with many professions, experience plays an essential role in salary determination. Engineers with more years in the field often pay higher due to their expertise and track record.

Salaries by year of experience in the U.S

• Less than one year -$108,528
• 1 to 2 years- $111,501
• 3 to 5 years -120,701
• 6 to 9 years-$127,535
• More than ten years-$146,112

2. Location 

Geographical location can substantially impact earnings. Software engineers working in tech hubs like Silicon Valley tend to have higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and intense demand for their skills.

According to Indeed (Yearly) 

• The average salary in  U.S. $116,145
• The average salary in Dhaka is ৳479,445
• The average salary in Canada is $90,343
• The average salary in  India ₹6,90,583
• The average salary in the U.K. is £50,025

3. Specialisation

Engineers specialising in a particular programming language, technology stack, or domain might have a competitive advantage in negotiating a higher salary. Specialised skills are often in high demand.

Some of the specialise that can help you to get higher salaries than usual

• Develop your network (customer relationship management)
• Programming language (C, Python, Ruby, Mean, Java )
• Communication and empathy
• Software engineers need visual communication to get their ideas across to team members 
• Software computing skills (data modelling, data management, statistics, backup, and recovery)

Here is the list of the top 5 highest-paying companies for software engineers

• Google
• Microsoft
• Meta 
• SalesForce 
• Tesla 

Many companies offer performance-based bonuses and incentives to motivate and reward their software engineers. These bonuses are often tied to individual or team achievements, project milestones, or meeting specific targets. They serve as an excellent way for engineers to boost their overall earnings.

One million salary package every year. Yes, you saw it right. Here is the list of giant companies 

Apple  

Snap 

Google 

Microsoft 

Oracle 

DoorDash 

Facebook 

VMWare 

Uber  

How Long Does It Take To Be A Software Engineer?

It can take three months to four years to be a software engineer, but it depends on your technical experience, professional background, and career path. Many people go for a bachelor's degree, but having one is always optional. There is always a scope, a self-learn/self-taught process, but most might look for a coding course.

According to HackerRank's 2020 Developer Skills Report, 31.9 per cent of developers at small companies employing between 1 and 50 employees still need a bachelor's degree.

• In mid-range companies, 18.4 per cent (between 50 and 999 employees) 
• 14.9 per cent at large companies (between 1,000 and 9,999 employees) 
• 8.6 per cent at massive organisations (over 10,000 employees)

Different Types Of Careers In Software Engineering

A software engineer involved in the design, development, and maintenance tasting of a software application.Software engineer in a big field.

So you can choose as per your vision and desire, then go ahead. Some of the prominent roles are listed below.

• Security Engineer
• Software Engineer
• Full stack Engineer 
• Front End Engineer
• DevOps Engineer
• Data Engineer
• Embedded Systems Software Engineer
• Security Engineer
• Back-End Engineer
• Software Engineer in Test
• Cloud Engineer
• Cyber security Expert 

Why You Should Become A Software Engineer -Reason to Pursue

According to the BLS analysis, Software engineers and testers should notice a 22% employment growth from (2020-2030). This rate is much quicker than the national average increase projection for all occupations (8%). After getting a total overview of how to be a software engineer a million-dollar question is that 

Why You Should Become A Software Engineer

There are various reasons to become a software engineer. Let's learn about some of the most important reasons to be a software engineer.

• If you love solving puzzles and problems, even hard ones, this is the one profession for you!
• If you choose to be a software engineer, you can work with your flexible time.
• Work remotely from anywhere.
• Learning will never end, and you will keep discovering something new and advanced every other day. Your skills get polished and improved with time.
• Continued technological advancement and digitalisation make upgrading their software regularly mandatory so they will need a software engineer.
• The salary range is high for software engineers. Everybody needs money. In that sense, a software engineer's career is a safer choice for your better future.
• You will get the opportunity to work with different country clients.
• If you are a creative mind, then this is the one profession for you!

Endnote

Hopefully, you find this blog helpful and have a better understanding of how to be a good software engineer and how to be a software engineer. Becoming a software engineer is a journey that demands dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for innovation. So, start following the path of coding and shaping the future today! 

Choose the career path wisely and best of luck for a bright future.