Riccarton High School
Software Developer Kaihanga Pūmanawa Rorohiko
Software developers create and maintain computer software, websites and software applications (apps).
Software developers may choose to become certified through associations such as the Institute of IT Professionals.
Software developers who specialise in developing or maintaining computer programs may:
- discuss clients' computer program requirements
- work out design specifications for programs
- write programs
- run tests to ensure programs and computer systems are working properly
- maintain and upgrade programs.
Software developers who specialise in developing websites may:
- develop a technical plan for the website and ways to promote it online
- suggest production methods and necessary equipment, and investigate costs for the website
- liaise with designers and other staff to help design and maintain the website
- integrate the technical, visual, and content aspects of the site to produce the finished product.
Physical Requirements
Software developers spend a lot of time using computers, so they need to know how to use computer equipment properly to avoid occupational overuse syndrome (OOS).
Useful Experience
Useful experience for software developers includes:
- creating websites or games, and computer programming
- fixing computer hardware or software problems
- graphic design and desktop publishing
- client or project management
- doing software development-related study and projects
- volunteer work involving software development, and creating websites.
Personal Qualities
Software developers need to be:
- methodical, accurate and patient
- able to work well under pressure, and meet deadlines
- able to work well as part of a team, and with minimal supervision
- skilled at problem solving and decision making
- skilled at verbal and written communication.
Skills
Software developers need to have knowledge of:
- computer software and systems
- programming languages and techniques
- the impact of programs on computer hardware (such as monitors, keyboards and printers) and other software (computer programs)
- software development processes such as Agile
- confidentiality, data security and data protection issues.
Conditions
Software developers:
- usually work full time and often work evenings and weekends, or might be on call
- work in offices in conditions that may be stressful because they sometimes work to strict deadlines
- may travel locally or overseas to meet clients.
Subject Recommendations
You usually need NCEA Level 3 to do the study or training for this job. Useful subjects include digital technologies, maths, physics and English.
For Year 11 to 13 students, the Gateway programme is a good way to gain industry experience.
Related Subjects
Software Developers can earn around $85K- $139K per year.
Chances of getting a job as a Software Developer are good due to a shortage of people interested in this type of work.
Software developers usually earn $85,000 to $139,000 per year.
Software developers can earn $60,000 to $172,000 per year.
Source: TEC research.
Software developers may progress to become senior developers, software architects or IT managers.
Software developers may specialise in the development, maintenance or enhancement of certain programs and software.
They may also specialise in a particular area such as:
- website development
- computer games
- film and animation.
Years Of Training
1-3 years of training usually required.You usually need a qualification to become a software developer and experience may be useful.
- to complete a training course with an IT organisation like Dev Academy
- a New Zealand Certificate in Applied Software Development (Level 6)
- a New Zealand Diploma in Software Development (Level 6)
- experience in similar work.
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