What is Software Engineering?

Software engineering is usually defined as the application of engineering principles to the software development process. In practice, this means giving programming a structured approach in order to improve the quality of the finished product, as well as the efficiency of the project.

Though they do work together, Software Engineers and Programmers have distinct roles: a Software Engineer designs a program, while a Programmer writes the code that brings it to fruition. Software engineering is normally used for larger projects, and it touches on many disciplines, including software design, software maintenance, quality control, strategic planning and, of course, computing and mathematical engineering.

We recruit for all levels of developers, traditionally looking at people with upwards of one year’s experience. We place anything from junior to senior lead software engineers at startups, scale-up companies and big-name businesses. Whether you’re a backend, frontend or full stack developer, we have specialist recruiters who can help you find your ideal role.

We have specialists within each area of development tech, be it front end, back end, full stack, Javascript, React, Node.js, PHP, Python, Java, .net, opensource, or functional.

Salary information and career progression

Opportunity within the Software Engineering Industry

Software engineers are always in heavy demand due to the never-ending need for software—both new programs and updates to older ones—across almost every industry. Though there is an increasing number of people with the skills and qualifications to take on software engineering jobs, the evolving nature of the field means that there will always be opportunities for those who stay ahead of the curve.

• Recent Changes in the Sector

  By its very nature, the software engineering field is always changing. Recent developments include the rise in cloud-based programs, and an increasing reliance on premade architecture from open source libraries. Like many industries, software engineering is being affected by automation. However, while AI is putting people in some fields out of work, it’s actually creating more jobs for Software Engineers, and in some cases making their jobs easier.

• Future Prospects

  Software Engineers can expect to progress from a junior role, where they handle one aspect of the software engineering process, to middle-weight and senior positions where they oversee the entirety of a project from start to finish. Though the industry is currently booming, it shows no signs of winding down any time soon.

• Salt’s advice for getting a software engineer job

  Employers’ Requirements

  Employers will require Software Engineers to be experienced in the design and implementation of software programs. A background in any kind of IT role will be a huge advantage. Though it’s software developers who write the code, familiarity with programming languages will certainly do no harm. Backend specialists should have knowledge of PPH, Ruby or Python, while frontend experts should study Javascript and HTML. Interpersonal skills and a propensity towards teamwork are also desired.

  CV Requirements

  A Software Engineer’s CV should emphasise both hard and soft skills. Analytical skills and problem-solving are crucial to the role, so showing examples of how and when you have used these will stand you in good stead. Despite this, employers may well be more interested in your Github or Stack Overflow portfolios as these can better display your work and experience in the field.

  Interview Preparation

  Relocation is common for Software Engineering jobs, particularly from Eastern Europe, so employers will be highly understanding if you need to make travel arrangements for interviews, or take first-round interviews over the phone or online. Interviews for Software Engineer jobs often focus on discussion of your technical skills and how you have previously implemented them. Typical interview questions include:

  1. Which programming languages are you familiar with and how have you used them?
  2. What do you look for when reviewing another team member’s code?
  3. What are the key principles of effective software engineering?
  4. What is your process when approaching a new project?

  Educational Requirements

  Though it is not an essential requirement, a degree in computer science, software engineering or information technology will be advantageous when it comes to securing a job in this sector. More important, though, are the skills employers will look for. These include technical competency, knowledge of computer systems, and the ability to communicate complicated issues to clients and colleagues clearly.