US News & World Report, Indeed, and Glassdoor all agree — software developer jobs rank among the top tech jobs in the U.S. When looking at factors like salary, demand growth, and job satisfaction, software developer jobs stand out among the technology industry — and even among other industries.
Software developers may be in charge of creating apps, updating software programs, or maintaining systems. They also usually involve specialization in applications or systems software. Some even delve into a specific niche of web development, such as front-end or back-end development.
Pursuing a job in software development requires expertise in certain programming languages and industry-related areas. It’s also important to know what skills are needed for specific occupations in the field. These are among the top skills needed for software developer jobs.
Hard Skills You’ll Need for Software Developer Jobs
Programming Languages
There are countless programming languages to learn, but software developer jobs usually require expertise in only a handful of programming languages. Here are the top programming languages for software development.
JavaScript
Web developers need to know JavaScript to design web applications and programs. While HTML or CSS help create the structure of the style of a page, JavaScript is necessary for most of the interactive features used in a webpage.
Java
Java is a flexible object-oriented language used in both front-end and back-end development. Java is also used to create mobile software. It is easy to learn, secure, and robust. As a result, many companies prefer using Java for their web applications over other languages. Companies like Wells Fargo, Deloitte, and IBM even seek software developers who specialize in Java.
SQL
SQL is a top skill for back-end programmers who are concerned with the functionality of a webpage. Since it is a database system, SQL allows software developers to store and organize data. This is incredibly valuable to many companies because data can be utilized to better understand users.
C++
Software developers utilize C++ or C to improve and maintain software systems or applications. C++ is also ideal for creating gaming applications and database software. Knowing C++ is ideal for people who want to specialize in systems software development.
Industry-Related Hard Skills
Software developer jobs require more than strong coding abilities. Knowing agile methodology, front-end development, and back-end development are all important for understanding the processes and practices involved in the field.
Agile Methodology
Software development goes through several stages. Understanding the software development life cycle (SDLC) allows developers to create the best software possible. One of the most popular processes used to implement the SDLC is the agile methodology. The agile methodology speeds up the SDLC so that the product is released early. Then, frequent updates are provided to improve performance.
Front-End Development
Front-end development focuses on the aesthetics and user experience of programs or web pages. People who want to become front-end developers have to understand what a user wants when they open a page. In addition, they should be skilled in design to create a visually pleasing but intuitive interface.
Back-End Development
Back-end development involves the overall performance of programs or web pages. People who work in back-end development carry the responsibility of making sure the product works and fixing any problems along the way. Since back-end developers are the backbone behind web pages, they serve a vital role in many companies. They also have a higher salary than front-end developers.
Secure Software Developer Jobs with These Soft Skills
Many employers will also look for soft skills among potential candidates. These skills will be important for job performance and may vary depending on the position’s role in the company. However, many of these soft skills are essential when pursuing software developer jobs.
Communication
Software developers will often work in teams with systems analysts, engineers, and programmers when creating an app or program. No matter what role they take in the project, many software developer jobs require strong communication skills to ensure that a project’s timeline is met. They also need to communicate with fellow developers to overcome any hurdles and program limitations.
Due to COVID-19, technology companies such as Facebook and Google have also made changes in their company formats to allow for more flexible working conditions. As more people work from home, software developers should also have some experience communicating through virtual platforms.
Innovation
Applications software developers need to have a creative mind to fulfill daily tasks and execute projects. They may be creating a brand new program or app that has never been done before, so they must have patience and agility to deal with the pressures in a project.
Those who are excited to tread innovative paths and are unafraid of potential challenges are likely to enjoy specializing in applications software development. In this field, software developers are sure to experience something new every day.
Problem Solving
Software must be constantly updated and corrected. Whether it’s to improve performance or correct errors in code, software developers must be great problem solvers who can adapt to new challenges. Software developers also have to make sure they can solve errors promptly.
Systems software developers specifically focus on computer maintenance and quality assurance. Hence, this is a vital skill to have if choosing to specialize in system software development.
Full-stack web developers use the most in-demand programming languages and practices to build websites and applications. With Software Development curriculum developed by WOZ and delivered by accredited learning delivery partners you’ll receive coding training using JavaScript, HTML, and CSS; recording and sharing progress with Git; developing front-end foundations and incorporating back-end services; setting up databases and cloud deployments; creating fully functioning web applications, and working in all aspects of web application architecture.
Sophia Acevedo
Sophia Acevedo is a journalist based in Southern California. She is a 2020 graduate from California State University, Fullerton, and a proud Daily Titan alum.
