A Computer Software Engineer is a skilled professional focused on the design and creation of software. They may or may not actually code. Because they are interacting with both business functions and programmers, Software Engineers should have excellent communication skills and should enjoy working as part of a team. They will often have to explain business functions to programmers and technology restraints to non-technical business managers.

Requirements for Software Engineers:

Successful Software Engineers need to know basic business functions, have a firm understanding of design methodology, and excellent communication skills.  Usually requires at least a BS in Computer Science. Should be very familiar with specialized languages relevant to the technologies employed (Java, C++, C#.NET as examples.  Software Engineers may or may not write code, although most do regularly.

Software Engineer Career Path :

After 3-5 years of experience many Software Engineers are promoted to a Senior Software Engineer position. Depending on the employee's skills and interests, a Senior Software Engineer may later be promoted to a Software Architect (a very senior designer of complex programs) or a role in Project Management.

Compensation for Software Engineers varies according to years of experience, degree and geography. A new graduate from a prestigious school in California may start at $45,000 to $60,000 per year.  Salaries for more seasoned Software Engineers can go as high as $150k +.

**Annual earnings are determined by a variety of factors including field, title, place of employment, level of education, experience and geography.**

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