what is a software developer?

As a software developer, you are the creative person behind computer programs and software applications. You build the programs and software from scratch and are responsible for the team that creates the applications. Software programs are designed to help users perform specific tasks on different devices, such as computers and mobile phones. 

In the role of software developer, you will create applications and operating systems that are used in computers and other electronic devices. You will collaborate with computer engineers and programmers, among others, to develop complex and functional systems. These systems exist to meet a customer need or to make various processes more efficient for a company or organisation. As a software developer, the work is not only about development, but you will also need to test and install the software to make sure it works as planned.

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what does a software developer do?

As a software developer, you take care of the maintenance and updating of software applications to make sure there are no bugs and to improve functionality. This means you need to check performance and find creative solutions for any problems. For example, it can be about making sure the security programs are updated and adapted to the application's new updates. It is also important to make sure the software application is compatible with the new operating system. 

If you want to make a career as a software developer, you need to be good at coding and be creative. If you also have skills in design, it helps you to create interactive applications with an appealing layout, design and theme. Being technically minded also makes it easier for you to solve complex problems when programming, to understand how different parts of the system work together. 

Would a job as a software developer suit your interest in technology and creativity? Then read on to find out more about the skills and qualifications needed to succeed in a role as a software developer.

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average salary as software developer.

The role of software developer is available at many different companies and organisations, which in turn operate in various industries. This means that the job as a software developer can in practice have different and varied tasks and areas of responsibility. This also means that the average salary as a software developer can vary, depending on how the role is designed. 

As a software developer, you usually start at a lower level in the organisation or company before you can handle more complex tasks and larger projects. Practical experience is important as a software developer, which means the salary progression is good. Those who are more experienced and have worked as a software developer for a longer time have gained valuable experience from working life, making them more attractive to employers. There is also quite a high demand for software developers, which means that many people working in software development continuously look for new employers as a way to increase their salary. If you want more information about the salary level for a software developer, read more at Unionen's market salaries or SCB.

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different roles of software developer.

There are several different specialisations that a software developer can have. 

  • In this web developer role, your job is to build websites and applications that meet the specifications set by the client. You will work on the visual elements of the website, the actual design of the site, and make sure it looks the way the client wants. You will also put together the database and program the backend, which forms the actual framework of the website.
  • Software developer
    As a software developer responsible for system development, the role is to build operating systems and similar software for various applications. You also create systems that regulate and support computer infrastructure. Some software developers working with system development program the code that ensures the software in, for example, dishwashers, refrigerators, and televisions works as it should.
  • As an app developer, you write the code for different games or mobile applications. It is often a software developer who has programmed many of the apps you have on your smartphone. You also put together the interface and build the functions that are in the app. Mobile and game developers are basically software developers with a focus on app development.
Smiling male with headphones having a conversation at his desk.
Smiling male with headphones having a conversation at his desk.
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working as a software developer.

Software developer is an attractive and exciting role for a career, where you get to build many important applications, software, and websites. Read more about what the job as a software developer actually involves and which tasks are part of the role.

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education and qualifications.

To be able to work as a software developer and succeed in your role, you need to have certain educational qualifications. There are no specific requirements to call yourself a software developer, as there are different educational paths you can take. 

  • University/university college
    Studying to become a software developer at an academic level means taking an IT-related course that provides knowledge in programming. Those who want to advance in their career and take on more responsible roles will benefit greatly from an academic background.
  • Vocational university
    There are YH programmes that provide solid knowledge in programming and make it possible to get a job as a software developer directly after finishing your studies. The advantage of YH programmes is that they can be more career-oriented and include more practical elements.
  • Internal training
    A common approach at many IT companies is to train or develop the skills of their own staff. Some employers hire inexperienced job seekers with an interest in programming, who learn to become software developers through internal training. It’s a way to get a foot in the job market and receive relevant, practically oriented education.
  • Internship
    In the role of software developer, practical skills are always central, which makes an internship a valuable experience and an opportunity to learn the job in an efficient way. It also gives you an asset for your CV. Some IT programmes have as a mandatory part that you spend a semester or more at an internship.
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knowledge and skills.

Some of the skills that a software developer needs to succeed in their role are the following:

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frequently asked questions about working as a software developer.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about working as a software developer.

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monitor jobs for software developer.

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