Featured
Technology & Computing
Software Engineer
Builds and maintains the software applications and systems that businesses and consumers rely on, working across the full development lifecycle from design to deployment.
TechnicalHigh GrowthStem
Technology & Computing
Backend Developer
Builds the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power applications, handling the data and processing users don't directly see.
Also known as: Server-Side Developer, API Developer
Compare with another careerWhat you do
Designs and implements APIs, database schemas, and business logic that applications rely on. Optimizes queries and system performance, handles authentication and data integrity, and integrates with third-party services. Works with frontend developers to expose data cleanly and reliably.
Typical work environment
Desk-based, often remote or hybrid, working within a product engineering team and interacting closely with infrastructure and frontend engineers.
Typical entry point
Junior backend developer or software engineer at a tech company or in-house IT team
Relevant subjects
Core
Computer Science
Also relevant
Mathematics
Relevant interests
Core
ProgrammingComputers
Also relevant
AI / Data
Useful skills
Programming· AdvancedPython· IntermediateData analysis· IntermediateProblem solving· Advanced
These are useful, relevant skills to build over time — not a checklist you need to already have.
Common education routes
Bachelor's degree—Computer Science EngineeringPrimary route
Bachelor's degree—Software EngineeringPrimary route
Master's degree—Data ScienceCommon route
These are common routes in, not the only path — and not a university or course recommendation.
Career characteristics
Remote-work friendlyStrong salary potentialHigh job securityDeep technical specialisation
General tendencies for this career, not a guarantee — actual roles vary by employer and location.
Industries
SoftwareData
Tags
STEMTechnical
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