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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.

Also known as: Software Developer, Programmer

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What you do

Writes, tests, and debugs code to build features and fix issues in software products. Collaborates with product managers and designers to translate requirements into working systems, reviews other engineers' code, and takes part in planning and architecture discussions. Works within a codebase that evolves over time, balancing new feature work against maintenance and technical debt.

Typical work environment

Primarily desk-based work, in an office or remote, using a laptop and collaboration tools, embedded in a small cross-functional product team.

Typical entry point

Junior or graduate software engineer at a tech company or in-house engineering team

Relevant subjects

Core

Computer ScienceMathematics

Relevant interests

Core

ProgrammingComputers

Also relevant

AI / Data

Useful skills

Programming· AdvancedProblem solving· AdvancedAnalytical thinking· IntermediateTeamwork· Intermediate

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—Computer 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 securityGood international mobilityDeep technical specialisation

General tendencies for this career, not a guarantee — actual roles vary by employer and location.

Industries

SoftwareAI

Tags

STEMTechnicalHigh-growth

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