Software Developer
Create computer software and applications using computer programming languages.
Job opportunities
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Jobs on SEEK right now
Job growth
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Projected job growth in 5 years
Salary
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Typical salary
Job satisfaction
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What's it like to be a Software Developer?
Software Developers are computer science specialists who create computer software and applications. They are proficient in the use of computer programming languages, which they use to write ‘code’ that enables the software’s functions. Experienced Software Developers usually have a specialisation in one or more fields of software development, such as web development or database development.
Tasks and duties
- Investigating, designing, testing, applying and evaluating new or existing software programs and products.
- Writing code to modify and improve software programs.
- Maintaining and upgrading programs, ensuring that training is provided for users.
- Collaborating with other IT and design professionals to create software and websites.
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Developers often work to a process known as the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), which contains six stages: analysis, design, development and testing, implementation, documentation, and evaluation. They interact with computers daily, and work in teams at IT companies or in the IT department of a broad range of technology–driven organisations. They may also work freelance servicing a list of clients.Software Developers usually work within a team of information technology professionals and liaise with development managers, software engineers, UX designers and systems analysts to ensure software projects are functional and effective.
How to become a Software Developer
- Complete a relevant bachelor degree, such as a Bachelor of Computer Science, Bachelor of Information Technology or Bachelor of Engineering (Software) (Honours). Alternatively, a VET qualification such as a Diploma of Information Technology (ICT50220) can introduce you to some of the skills required for the role.
- Consider advancing your skills with further study. This could be an IT certification with a professional association or training institution, or a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Computer Science.
- Aim to secure a placement in an internship program while studying. This will provide you with relevant experience as well as guidance and mentorship from experienced Software Developers.
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Latest Software Developer jobs on SEEK
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Location
AustraliaSkills and experience employers are looking for
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C# ProgrammingJavaScript ProgrammingJava ProgrammingTypescript ProgrammingAngularCSSAWSHTMLComputer ScienceGit Version Control SystemSkills listed in your SEEK Profile
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Is Software Developer the right role for me?
How do Software Developers rate their role?
Average ratings calculated from 31 Software Developers surveyed on SEEK.
Work-life balance
4.3
Job satisfaction
4.1
Career progression opportunities
3.8
Job security
4.3
Pay / Salary
4.1
Variety of work
3.5
Job market trends for Software Developers
Location
AustraliaProjected job growth
National increase over next 5 years
2021
2026
Source: National Skills Commission. Software and Applications Programmers
Source: SEEK job ads and SEEK role reviews
Latest Software Developer reviews
Latest reviews from 27 Software Developers surveyed on SEEK.
All
Positive
Negative
May 2021
Software Developement is mentally tough, but is very rewarding when you see happy clients
Reviewer's Qualification
Bachelor of Information Systems
Experience
5 – 9 years
Organisation size
Medium (20-199 employees)
Specialisation
Mobile App Development
The good things
Hours Flexibility
Agile process
Seeing apps in the AppStore
Seeing satisfied customers
The challenges
Micro-management
Mentally tiring
Design and specification paperwork
Read more
Nov 2018
Software dev is a great career choice that you should avoid if you like your sanity
Reviewer's Qualification
Bachelor of Computer Science
Experience
5 – 9 years
Organisation size
Medium (20-199 employees)
Specialisation
Development
The good things
Stability, ease of finding a job. Desk work.
The challenges
Doing REALLY DULL WORK ALL THE TIME IN A GREY CUBICLE OH GOD
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