Software Engineer

A Software Engineer conducts research; designs; and evaluates, integrates and maintains software application, technical environments, operating systems, embedded software, information warehouses and telecommunications software.

Tasks

Researches, designs, writes and tests new software programs;
Develops existing systems by analyzing and identifying areas for modification;
´Bolting Together´ existing software products (getting incompatible platforms to work together and creating code to link them);
Maintains systems by monitoring, identifying and correcting software defects;
Investigates new technologies;
Creates technical specifications and test plans;
Consults clients/colleagues concerning the maintenance and performance of software systems to obtain information, clarify details and implement solutions.

Basic Educational Requirement

A bachelors degree, usually in computer science, computer systems engineering, software engineering or mathematics is required. Knowledge in Microsoft and Oracle programs will definitely be an advantage.

Skills and Competencies

Must be able to create functional and technical design specifications for development efforts;
Must have proficient programming skills, including familiarity with data types, syntax and control structures;
Must be able to analyze and prioritize information to make appropriate recommendations;
Must also be adept at debugging complex application problems and be able to produce quality software documentation, including requirements specifications, design documents and unit test plans;
Problem solver;
Ability to work in a team.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

Enthusiasm and knowledge of project cycles;
Attention to detail, even in pressured situations as deadlines approach;
A logical mind;
Numeric aptitude;
Good interpersonal and communication skills (especially the ability to understand client needs and communicate proposed solutions effectively).

Salary/Compensation

In the local labor market, a Software Engineer receives around P40,000 -60,000 per month, depending on the experience and the level of knowledge in the business.

In the U.S, the median earnings of a full time Software Engineer is about $74,930 (P3,821,430) annually or $6,244 (P 318,452) per month.

Prospects for Career Advancement

Entry level Software Engineers are likely to test and verify ongoing designs. As they become more experienced, they may become involved in designing and developing software. Eventually, they may advance to become project manager, manager of information systems, or chief information officer. Some computer software engineers with several years of experience or expertise find lucrative opportunities working as systems designer or independent consultants or entrepreneurs with their own computer consulting firms.

Employment Opportunities

Employment of Software Engineers is expected to increase much faster than the average for other occupations, as business and other organizations adopt and integrate new technologies and seek to maximize the efficiency of their computer systems.

Cost of Education *

In a public educational institution, it will cost only around P25,000 to finish a course in Computer Science. Private Schools charge higher rates ranging from P152,000 to P228,000.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2007- 2008

Source: Bureau of Local Employment, Manila, Philippines.