If you’re on the hunt for a great software engineer, you’re not alone. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the demand for these workers to grow by as much as 25% by the year 2031. They note that this is “much faster than average.”
But sometimes, it can be hard to know the precise responsibilities and abilities expected of a software engineer in the position you’re recruiting for. If that’s the case, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with this informative guide, outlining the eight essential skills that distinguish a great software engineer.
Top 8 Skills of a Software Engineer
- Coding languages
- Software architecture
- Object-oriented design
- Testing Procedures
- Debugging knowledge
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
Coding Languages
Software engineers must be experts in coding. Since there are many different coding languages, they must be diligent in learning each of the most prevalent languages inside and out. Of course, this also depends on the type of application for which the software will be used.
While not an exhaustive list, here are some of the languages in which your software engineers should be proficient.
- JavaScript: Well-known to those in software development and engineering, JavaScript is one of the core technologies of the internet, often serving as the basis for most of the websites we frequent. In fact, as of 2022, an astounding 98.7% of all websites utilize JavaScript.
- Java: Java differs from JavaScript in that Java is an open-source programming language, while JavaScript is a scripting language. More than three billion devices currently use Java.
- C/C++: Often seen as a more high-level type of programming language, C++ can help software engineers expand the capabilities of the hardware. For example, C++ is often used in the programming of medical equipment.
- Ruby: Another open-source programming language, Ruby is fully object-oriented and focused on “simplicity and productivity.” Many different web applications, including sites such as Airbnb, use Ruby.
- Python: Like Ruby, Python is another open-source programming language. The difference, however, is that Python is used more often in scientific programming. In fact, the NASA James Webb Space Telescope uses Python to process the data received from the telescope.
- Scala: Known to be up to 10 times faster than Python, Scala “combines object-oriented and functional programming into one concise, high-level language.”
Software Architecture
As with building architecture, software architecture is about creating a base structure for any software system. Think of software architecture as the blueprint for any software. A software engineer should be able to make design decisions, which is a core part of being proficient in software architecture.
Since they’re so deeply ingrained in the development of any software, these “blueprints” are often costly to change and take a great deal of time.
By employing this skill effectively from the outset, the need for changes can be minimized, saving valuable time and resources. When done correctly from the get-go, the need for changes is minimal.
Object-Oriented Design
To the layperson, object-oriented design (OOD) is a nebulous and abstract concept. To software engineers, though, it’s a way to plan a system that solves software issues by ensuring objects (codes or data) interact with each other effectively (i.e., it’s a way to make code easier to write, understand, and easily reusable).
For example, during an interview, a software engineer skilled in OOD should be able to design an object by carefully considering which sub-objects it will contain and how they will interact. For instance, if asked to design a parking lot (used here for illustrative purposes only), the engineer would think through factors like size, capacity, dimensions of each car, and stall specifications.
Testing Procedures
Although software testing has come a long way in the age of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, software engineers must still know the proper procedures for software testing to minimize the issues and errors the end user may encounter. AI can now perform many testing tasks, but certainly not all. We must still rely on the human brain for many of these procedures. A good software engineer will not only know how to test software but repair any bugs as well.
Debugging Knowledge
Because testing naturally leads to finding bugs, whether in the architecture, the coding, or the design, a great software engineer must know how to effectively debug the software to ensure minimal issues down the road. While most testing is done using specialized software, debugging is human-led and requires a great deal of problem-solving.
Communication
Communication is about more than sending emails and answering questions from coworkers over chat. Since most software engineers find it necessary to collaborate with others, they must know how to effectively communicate, which also includes understanding how to draw information from others who may have knowledge they don’t. It’s also vital that the engineer be able to communicate information to others who may not have a technical background. Both written and verbal communication are highly desired skills.
While communication skills are necessary for anyone in a collaborative role, they don’t always come naturally to all of us, especially people who tend to be more introverted. If someone is perfect for the role but lacks these communication skills, try giving them additional training during the onboarding process.
Problem-Solving
Anyone who has ever worked with software in any capacity knows that it can go wrong, especially when you’re on the development end. Software engineers should know how to address any issues or errors quickly, effectively, and creatively. Being agile enough to think on your feet while still adhering to best practices is a must for successful software engineers.
Testing is a large part of a software engineer’s job during the development stage. However, issues still arise for users even after the product has been officially released. That’s where speedy problem-solving comes in.
Attention to Detail
Having a keen eye for details is considered a “soft skill,” but it’s perhaps the most important of all. When a software engineer creates, they must avoid as many potential future issues as possible. Finding and fixing errors up front, before the software ever reaches the end user, can save an incredible amount of time and resources.
Hire Your Next Software Engineer with Insight Global
Software engineers are incredibly valuable and highly sought-after. Finding a professional who possesses all the above skills can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. The best software engineers should be able to address your concerns about their skills and demonstrate their knowledge easily and effectively.
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