May also be called: Application Integration Engineers; Applications Developers; Business Systems Analysts; Computer Consultants; Programmer Analysts; Software Architects; Software Development Engineers; Software Engineers; and Technical Consultants
Specialties within this occupation include: Mobile Applications Software Developers
Software Developers, Applications develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. They design and develop software for computer games, business applications, and middleware. Their work evolves rapidly, reflecting new areas of specialization or changes in technology, as well as the preferences and practices of employers and customers. Applications Software Developers apply the principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the software that enable computers to perform their many applications. As computer software is improved or enhancements are made to systems, Applications Software Developers oversee the updates, revisions, and changes made to applications. They develop new computer languages, operating systems, and applications packages that fully use the advanced capabilities of computer hardware. The programming languages most often used are C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, and Ruby. Some Applications Software Developers create packaged computer applications, but most design customized applications. They may oversee the work of computer programmers. Mobile Applications Software Developers create and modify applications (apps) specifically for smart phones, tablets, and other mobile devices. In addition, apps are often used by businesses as a marketing aspect, thus Mobile Applications Software Developers should be aware of various business and marketing strategies. Tools and Technology Applications Software Developers use computers and computer servers in their work. They may also use digital cameras, flash memory storage devices, integrated circuit testers, and tablets or smart phones. They use a variety of software such as development environment, object or component oriented development, program testing, Web platform development, and database management systems.
Each task below is matched to a sample skill required to carry out the task.
Applications Software Developers work in well-lit and comfortable offices or computer laboratories. They often work in teams and regularly interact with team members and other staff, as well as with customers. They frequently work more than 40 hours a week due to the project-oriented nature of their work. Applications Software Developers may also work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines or solve technical problems. Applications Software Developers may experience eye strain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems from typing on a computer keyboard and using a mouse. Those who are employed by software vendors and consulting firms spend much of their time away from their offices, frequently traveling overnight to meet with customers. Telecommuting is becoming more common allowing Applications Software Developers to work away from their main office or in remote locations. Most workers in this occupation are not represented by unions. However, those in government positions may join unions, such as the Service Employees International Union.
The job of Applications Software Developer may appeal to those who enjoy activities that involve working with ideas and require an extensive amount of thinking. The Applications Software Developer occupation involves searching for facts and figuring out problems. Individuals who value job security and leadership opportunities may enjoy this type of job. Employers seek Applications Software Developers with strong programming, systems analysis, interpersonal, communications, and business skills. In addition, candidates need ingenuity, creativity and the ability to take initiative. They should also have a natural aptitude for performing this type of work.
The median wage in 2021 for Software Developers, Applications in California was N/A annually. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.
Applications Software Developers generally receive medical, dental, and life insurance; vacation; sick leave; and retirement plans from their employers. Some companies also offer stock options. Those who are self-employed must provide their own insurance and retirement.
Large growth is expected to occur as businesses, organizations, and individuals continue to adopt and integrate new technologies and maximize the efficiency of their current computer systems. Competition among businesses should create an incentive for increasingly sophisticated technological innovations; therefore, organizations will need more Applications Software Developers to implement these new technological changes. Demand for Applications Software Developers should increase as computer networking continues to grow. Increased use of the Internet, the rise in the number of websites, and mobile technology, such as wireless Internet, are driving the demand for a variety of new products that Applications Software Developers will help to create. At the same time, handheld computers create demand for new mobile applications. As these devices become a larger part of the business environment, it will be necessary to integrate current computer systems with new, more mobile technology.
In California, the number of Software Developers, Applications is expected to grow much faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Software Developers, Applications are expected to increase by 29.0 percent, or 35,800 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
In San Benito and Santa Clara Counties, the number of Software Developers, Applications is expected to grow much faster than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Software Developers, Applications are expected to increase by 25.2 percent, or 13,210 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
Employers usually prefer to hire Applications Software Developers with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics. Degrees in engineering disciplines such as electrical/electronic or computer engineering are also desirable. Employers with jobs that are more complex and require a high degree of technical knowledge may prefer a candidate with a master’s degree.
Most employers prefer candidates with a broad knowledge of and experience in computer systems and technologies. They should also be familiar with more than one operating system and be able to debug applications. This knowledge and experience can be obtained through formal job experience or by doing projects on personal time, such as writing software applications or creating websites. Employers may also look at the candidate's open source contributions. Many students seeking software development jobs enhance their employment opportunities by participating in internships offered through their schools. These programs provide students with valuable, hands-on, real-world experience. In many firms, mentoring has become part of the evaluation process for new hires.
High school students interested in this kind of work should take courses in mathematics, computer science, engineering technology, science, and language arts. Regional Occupational Programs (ROP) are available for business applications, computer applications, computer information systems, computer programming, computer science, information technology, and software design. To find an ROP program near you, go to the California Association of Regional Occupational Centers and Programs Web site at www.carocp.org/carocps.html.
Applications Software Developers must continually acquire new skills as technology evolves and advances, in order to remain in this competitive and dynamic field. Continuing education and professional development seminars are offered by employers, software vendors, colleges and universities, and private training institutions.
Certification is generally not required to work as an Applications Software Developer; however, some product vendors or software firms require Software Developers who work with their products to be certified. In addition, voluntary certification can be obtained through professional computing associations and is a good way to demonstrate competence and gain a competitive edge. For more information, go to the U.S. Department of Labor's Career InfoNet Web site at www.acinet.org and scroll down to "Career Tools." Click on "Certification Finder" at www.acinet.org/certifications_new/default.aspx and follow the instructions to locate certification programs.
There are two ways to search for training information at www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/resources/training-and-apprenticeships.html
Contact the schools you are interested in to learn about the classes available, tuition and fees, and any prerequisite course work.
The largest industries employing Software Developers, Applications are as follows:
Networking is important in this occupation, since many Applications Software Developers find work through referrals. Joining computer user groups is a good way to meet other Software Developers and potential employers. Jobs can also be found through direct application to employers, newspaper classified advertisements, online job boards, and professional organizations. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.To find your nearest One-Stop Career Center, go to Service Locator. View the helpful job search tips for more resources. (requires Adobe Reader).
You can focus your local job search by checking employers listed online or in your local telephone directory. Below are some suggested headings where you might find employers of Software Developers, Applications.
To locate a list of employers in your area, use "Find Employers" on the LaborMarketInfo Web site at http://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/aspdotnet/databrowsing/empMain.aspx?menuChoice=emp
Applications Software Developers may advance to supervisory or managerial positions within the information technology (IT) department of a firm, particularly those who have high levels of communication and project management skills. Those with several years of experience or expertise can find lucrative opportunities working as systems designers or independent consultants.
Below is a list of occupations related to Software Developers, Applications.
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Printed on Saturday, June 25, 2022