How to become a Software Developer

As a software developer, you meet with clients to go over their needs and come up with ways to help them. This often requires creating a list of possible programs or features that go along with a specific program. The client always has the option of asking for more details or changes, which can lead to multiple meetings before you sit down at your computer to develop the program. You will also look for problems with existing software and find solutions to those issues. Software developers often work on teams in which different members handle specific parts of a program. They then test the parts to make sure they work together correctly. Other responsibilities of a software developer include:

• Working with coders to ensure they use the proper coding in programs
• Keeping track of the program in all phases and staying alert for problems
• Getting feedback from anyone who might use the program

As a software developer, you will use computer equipment to help you program and test your work. The most important tool at your disposal is your computer itself. Depending on where you work, you may receive a company computer, keyboard, mouse, and audio equipment that you can only use in the office or one that you can also take home. Your computer will come loaded with tools designed to help you build new programs. Coding software allows you to write the code that the program needs, monitor any changes to that code, and save previous versions. You will use performance analysis tools later in the process. These tools help you track how well the program performs and compare its performance to that of previous editions. As a software developer, you also need to be comfortable using debugging software that looks for and fixes flaws in the code.

Most software developers work in office settings. They do not always work set hours but do work for at least 40 hours a week. Software publishers, manufacturers, and private companies are the top employers in this sector. Many employers now offer work-from-home opportunities for software developers to keep up with changes and demands in the tech field. This gives you the option of making your home in a city with a low cost of living while earning the higher salary paid in areas with a high cost of living. If you work from home, you will clock in every time you work via a program on your computer. Some employers also require that you use a webcam and Zoom or similar app to attend meetings with clients and coworkers. If you work in an office, expect to travel occasionally to meet with your clients or team members working on the same project at a different location.

As a software developer, you can look forward to working both on your own and with others. Your colleagues include coding and programming professionals. These experts help you translate the ideas you worked out with your clients into fully formed programs. They look for errors in the code and find problems you missed. You will also work with other software developers, as many employers use teams. Multiple meetings are sometimes necessary to make sure everyone is on the same page. Software developers also work with clients to create their software to their specifications.

Your work schedule as a software developer depends on your employer. Most employers ask that you complete a 40-hour workweek during business hours, typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you're working on a project with a tight deadline, expect to spend more time in the office (or more time working from home, if you work remotely), perhaps until 6 or 8 at night to finish the program on time. Start-up companies ask developers to work longer hours to find new clients and keep current clients happy.

Though some worry that automation will replace human software developers, computer programs can only do so much. You can use a program to schedule appointments and keep track of program codes, but no program is capable of accomplishing everything a software developer does. Improving your skills and staying up-to-date on technological advancements are the best ways to ensure that you remain a sought-after job candidate.

When you choose to work with Spherion, you'll enjoy advantages not available anywhere else. Do you want a job that offers the flexibility to work from home and spend more time with your family? Maybe you have a medical condition that prevents you from working in a standard office job. Spherion helps you find positions that use your skills and offer the flexibility you need. You have the chance to sign up for training opportunities to go beyond what you learned in school, plus a contact person who is always ready to answer any concerns or questions you have. At Spherion, you'll find a wide range of software developer positions in cities across the country as well as jobs close to home.

When you build your resume to apply for software developer jobs, make sure it highlights the skills you have that are valuable in this industry. You need to show that you are familiar with:

• Coding languages, including JavaScript and HTML
• Working with computer databases
• Testing procedures
• Debugging operations 

Employers also look for software developers with good time management skills and strong attention to detail. As you will work with both colleagues and clients, you need some public speaking experience in order to confidently convey your ideas and defend your changes to a program. You will also need the ability to work with different groups in various situations.

A software developer provides help and support with the creation of new computer programs. In this role, you are responsible for identifying the needs of a client or group and creating a software program that fulfills those needs. You will also test programs and create systems.

You do not need to do anything special in high school if you want to work as a software developer, but you may find it helpful to take some extra science and mathematics classes. Once you have your diploma, enroll in a computer degree program at a college or university. There are many degree programs today that allow you to study computer science from home.

Becoming a software developer is easy when you work with Spherion to find a position. Not only can you search for open positions in any city of your choosing, but you can apply for all of those jobs online. To apply, you can either submit a resume you already have or answer questions and fill out boxes to share your information. Submit an open application when you're ready to apply.

When you study to become a software developer, you can also use your degree to work in software engineering. Software engineers have similar job duties. Many also work as mobile developers. Mobile developers primarily optimize websites for smartphone users, but they also create apps that others can use on the go with their devices.