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.
software developer jobswhat 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.
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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factors that affect the salary as software developer
In addition, there are other factors that affect the salary for a software developer. In larger cities, the general salary level is better than in smaller towns in Sweden. This also affects the salary for someone working as a software developer. If you work for an employer whose business is located in one of Sweden's largest cities, the chances for a higher salary are usually better.
How big the employer and the company are, as well as whether you work in the private sector or public administration, and how your role is designed, are other factors that can affect your salary. A software developer with greater responsibility and who has a leading role will be in a better position when it comes to salary negotiations.
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.
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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software developer job description
The specific tasks in the role as software developer can vary depending on the project, employer or industry you work in. But some common tasks for a software developer can be the following:
- Discuss requirements and specifications with customers: As a software developer, it’s important to be able to communicate with customers to get an idea of what requirements and specifications exist. The customer’s wishes and requirements form the basis of your work. Some customers have a clear idea of which features are needed in an application, while others highlight a need that has to be fulfilled.
- Plan and design the software: Once you have an understanding of the customer's needs, you need to put together a design plan. You might need to set up a step-by-step plan to include all the necessary parts in the project and finish on time. During the planning phase, you also need to decide which programming language will be used and start the coding.
- Upgrade existing applications: When you’re not working on developing new software, your job is about testing applications that were created earlier. This is to adapt the functions, find updates and discover creative ways to improve the software’s performance. The upgrades can be about optimising the software to increase performance and making the applications compatible with the latest technology.
- Testing applications and performing quality checks: All new software needs to go through a proper testing process before it is delivered to the customer or introduced to the market. As a software developer, you need to carry out quality and performance checks. With functional testing, you check the functionality of the applications. If a user clicks on a link in the software, it should take them to the correct function or destination. Other tests are about checking speed, performance, and response time to make sure these factors meet the specification requirements. The functionality on different devices is also tested thoroughly.
- Document the development process: It is important to document every step in the project when working as a software developer. This is so that future maintenance can be carried out more efficiently. For example, it becomes easier to implement updates or find bugs or errors in the code if there is clear documentation.
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work environment
Many software developers work in the IT and tech industry, both in large multinational companies and small start-ups. But some software developers work in the manufacturing industry, the financial sector or the technology industry. No matter the employer or company, a software developer often works in a typical office environment with their computer.
As large parts of the working hours are spent at the office, many employers have tried to create a sustainable working environment, with good lighting and proper ergonomics, for their software developers. There is also the possibility to work remotely from home, since as a software developer you are often focused at your computer. But this is something each employer and workplace has their own rules for.
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your colleagues
Since a software developer can work in many different industries and have many different employers, colleagues can also vary. But it’s not uncommon for a software developer to work closely with data engineers, IT consultants and software engineers. Also backend developer, frontend developer velvet project manager, manager even more administrative roles can be your colleagues when you work as a software developer.
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work schedule
A software developer can have varying working hours depending on the project. Smaller projects that do not require much time can be done during regular office hours, but when it comes to larger and more urgent projects, a software developer may need to be available at less convenient working times.
Some complex projects may also require some overtime to finish on time and meet the customer's deadline. Usually, you work as a software developer full-time with a 40-hour week, but some choose to work as consultants to be able to manage your working hours and projects independently. You can also find short-term contracts, part-time positions and project-based contracts. For some software developer roles, travelling for work to meet clients is part of the job. And it’s also not uncommon for clients to expect you to carry out your tasks on site at their premises.
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future prospects
There has long been a great demand for software developers and other types of developers in the job market, which means you have an exciting future ahead of you.
It’s common to start at a junior level with a new employer, but the more work experience and practical knowledge you gain, the more complex assignments and tasks you can get. This means that a software developer can specialise in either backend or frontend, but can also become relevant for a manager or leadership role. Many experienced software developers choose to start their own company to work as subcontractors instead.
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advantages of finding a job as software developer via randstad
There are many advantages to finding a vacant job as a software developer via Randstad:
- various development and career opportunities
- an experienced contact person who can help you if needed
- many open jobs in your area
- full-time or part-time work depending on the job/assignment
Do you want a permanent position as software developer? A temporary job as software developer is a good first step towards getting a permanent position later in your career. Every year, several people get a permanent position with employers, thanks to a temporary job that went through us at Randstad. In addition, many companies recruit their permanent employees directly through Randstad.
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.
knowledge and skills.
Some of the skills that a software developer needs to succeed in their role are the following:
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analytical ability
A software developer needs to map and evaluate the customers' needs to set up the specification requirements before a project. With good analytical skills, you have the opportunity to identify which functions are important for the software to go according to plan. It is also beneficial to have analytical skills during the testing process.
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communicative ability
In the role of software developer, you are expected to communicate with several different people, including parts of the development team and the client. This also means you can explain complex functions in technical terms that are still understandable for clients and investors.
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creativity
Being creative is important as a software developer, since the work involves both creating visually appealing design and finding solutions to problems. A creative interest helps you find new ways to improve the functionality and performance of the software you develop.
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detail-oriented
A software developer handles many different components in software, and to be able to see the whole picture, you need to be detail-oriented. This helps you avoid mistakes that make the development of the component take longer. Having an eye for detail also makes it easier for you to identify bugs and errors when maintenance or testing is carried out.
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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what does the job as software developer involve?
A software developer creates applications, websites or other software to meet the needs and requirements of customers. The job of a software developer also includes maintaining and testing already existing software.
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do you work as a software developer with backend or frontend?
As a software developer, or software developer as it is also called in Swedish, you usually work with both frontend and backend. It is possible to specialise in one area, or get help from others in the same development team when a project is to be carried out.
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what education is required to become a software developer?
There is no requirement for a specific education to become a software developer, but many have an academic background in programming or other IT-related studies. You can also study to become a software developer at a vocational college. Practical experience and knowledge of coding languages are the most important things to be able to work as a software developer.
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how do I apply for an open job as software developer?
It's easy to apply for a job as a software developer. Search among our vacant jobs in your area. Then send in your CV or your personal letter or apply via LinkedIn.
If you need help with your job application, you can read all our guides job tips here!
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