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Software Developer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

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A Software Developer creates, tests and maintains computer programs and websites for businesses. Their main duties include writing code, identifying areas for software modification and monitoring analytics efficiently.

Software Developer duties and responsibilities

Tasks for a Software Developer can vary and can be more specialised, depending on the company. Generally, they perform the following functions:

  • Meeting with the development team to discuss client requirements
  • Clearly and regularly communicating with management and technical support colleagues
  • Writing and repairing computer code
  • Leading software development projects
  • Ensuring that all SLAs (Service Level Agreements) are met
  • Performing trials, testing and quality checks to ensure strong functionality and optimisation
  • Maintaining and supporting systems and improving the performance of existing software
  • Keeping detailed records of development processes
  • Meeting individual client’s requirements and standards
  • Designing and updating software databases

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Software Developer Job Description Examples:

Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines

What does a Software Developer do?

A Software Developer maintains and repairs a company’s existing software and may also create new software to improve the company’s workflows. Usually, there are two types of Software Developers: Front-End and Back-End. A Back-End Developer focuses on hardware, such as the server and how the site operates, while a Front-End Developer is responsible for both the site’s visual design and the functionality of the website, from the perspective of the user. A Software Developer that can perform both functions is known as a Full-Stack Developer.

Software Developer skills and qualifications

A Software Developer has differing specialised skills depending on if they are Front-End, Back-End or Full-Stack Developers. However, a successful Software Developer should have various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed for their duties. These include:

  • Strong attention to detail
  • Creative problem-solving skills
  • Excellent verbal communication skills
  • Knowledge of algorithms and data structures
  • Experience with software languages such as Java, C/C++, Python and others
  • Persistence when solving a problem
  • Ability to work independently and multi-task effectively
  • Flexibility in thinking and in attitude, with the ability to accept a change in priorities as necessary
  • Demonstrated understanding of projects from the perspective of both client and business

Software Developer experience requirements

Some Software Developers may apply directly after university and have only relevant school experience. Some may have hands-on experience through working closely with Software Developers as an intern.

Apart from the relevant schooling, a Software Developer should have experience outside of studies and the traditional work environment. There are many free online learning resources for learning about programming languages and for learning new software development. A dedicated Software Developer should always look for new ways to stay connected and up-to date with the latest languages and programming processes.

Software Developer education and training requirements

Most applicants have a degree related to:

  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Software Development
  • Software Engineering for Business
  • Maths

Some people also do a college course in computing or programming which can lead to a higher apprenticeship, or possibly a trainee position within a company. Some job seekers can also complete a Digital and Technology Solutions Degree apprenticeship. Many companies offer a position as a Junior Developer as a way to train and develop candidates.

Software developer salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Software Developer is £42, 767 per year. The average workweek is typically about 40 hours, and an employee may work the occasional evening or weekend. The starting salary may depend on experience, location and company.

Job description samples for similar positions

If Software Developer does not match your specific job role needs, similar positions include:

Two chefs, one wearing a red headband, review a laptop and take notes at a wooden table in a kitchen setting.

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