Software Developer
Software developers design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. They analyze user needs, write and test code, debug programs, and collaborate with cross-functional teams. The BLS reports a median salary of $132,270 with 17% projected growth, much faster than average. A bachelor's degree in computer science is standard, though strong portfolios and coding skills can open doors. Specializations include mobile, web, embedded systems, and enterprise software.
A Day in the Life
A typical day starts with a standup meeting where the team shares progress and blockers. Mid-morning involves writing code for a new feature, referencing design specs and API documentation. After lunch, the developer reviews a colleague's pull request and runs automated tests. Late afternoon includes debugging an issue reported by QA, updating documentation, and planning tasks for the next sprint.
Key Stats
Education
Bachelor's Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $79,000
Median: $132,270
Senior: $180,000
Job Growth