Software Developers
Software developers research, design, and develop computer and network software programs tailored to specific user needs. They analyze requirements, apply computer science and mathematical principles to create solutions, and update existing software to enhance capabilities. Developers work in technology companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, and various other industries that rely on custom or specialized software.
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A day in the work
A software developer's week typically involves writing and testing code, attending meetings to discuss project requirements, and collaborating with other developers and designers. Tasks may include debugging software, reviewing code from colleagues, updating documentation, and implementing new features based on user feedback. Developers spend time researching technical solutions to solve problems, working through logical challenges, and ensuring their code meets quality standards before deployment.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You would do well in this role if you naturally enjoy investigating how things work and organizing information systematically. People who succeed as software developers tend to be methodical problem-solvers who appreciate following established processes and standards while also thinking analytically about technical challenges.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Software Engineer, Cloud · Lifelancer · United States · Remote
- Senior Software Engineer, Cloud Platform · NVIDIA · Canada, United States · Remote
- Senior Software Engineer | Middleware · ExtraHop · USA · Remote
- Senior Software Engineer | Cloud · ExtraHop · USA · Remote
- Staff Software Engineer, Konnect Core Platform · Kong Inc. · USA · Remote
- Backend Product Software Engineer · Dropbox · Remote · Remote
- Staff Software Engineer, Frontend · hims & hers · USA · Remote
- Senior Staff Software Engineer, Serving · Liftoff · USA · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $136,990 | $174,410 | $216,670 | 284,390 |
| Washington | $132,290 | $166,540 | $211,860 | 107,030 |
| New York | $127,160 | $166,180 | $205,540 | 113,510 |
| Massachusetts | $131,370 | $165,210 | $190,280 | 48,190 |
| Oregon | $111,750 | $142,720 | $170,600 | 21,830 |
| New Hampshire | $107,240 | $139,720 | $167,880 | 10,840 |
| Maryland | $109,120 | $138,680 | $178,000 | 31,350 |
| Colorado | $122,470 | $138,390 | $173,000 | 43,320 |
| District of Columbia | $117,120 | $136,880 | $169,580 | 6,120 |
| Virginia | $106,600 | $136,460 | $171,090 | 88,280 |
| New Jersey | $107,020 | $135,940 | $170,130 | 51,570 |
| North Carolina | $104,530 | $134,710 | $164,750 | 58,470 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC) — IEEE Computer Society
- Adobe Experience Manager Forms Developer Expert Certification — Adobe Systems Incorporated
- Python Developer Certification (PYDEV) — Logicwalker, LLC
- Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) — IEEE Computer Society
- Adobe Analytics Developer Expert Certification — Adobe Systems Incorporated
- Professional Cloud Developer Certification (PCD) — Cloud Credential Council
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
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Four short assessments and your background, scored against software developers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 15-1252.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.