Computer Software Engineer

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Work Tasks

• Make computer software systems for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, and scientific use
• Use computer science and math to make the design for the software
• Make the software within time and cost limits
• Test the software to make sure it works right
• Work for computer and data processing servicing companies, producers of computer and related equipment, the government, universities, and insurance firms
• Work with computers and related (peripheral) equipment, computer printouts, software systems, and computer languages

Salary, Size & Growth

• $87,000 average per year ($41.75 per hour)
• A large occupation (878,200 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (3.2% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in a computer-related field
• Employers Prefer: A master's degree in computer science or software engineering
• Skills/Courses: Must have up-to-date knowledge in a specific area and two or more programming languages.
• Certification/Licensing: Certification is available after experience and passing a test.