How to Become a Software Engineer in Singapore
The Information Technology (IT) industry has expanded its global horizon through the years.
Automation and digitisation has strengthened demand for IT professionals, making IT a leading industry in Singapore.
What’s more, IT is a massive industry, with various specialisations you can choose from, such as Software Engineer, DevOps Engineer, or Computer Hardware engineer – not to mention the sheer variety of tech companies there are in Singapore!
And right now, the software engineer role is all the rage. How do you become a software engineer? Read on to find out!
About the Software Engineer Role
The main job functions of software engineers include research, design, execution, testing, and maintenance of programs, including systems, solutions, and applications.
Software developers and engineers are vital in companies, especially technology companies.
They modify systems and integrate them with other services.
They also write code for programmes, document their changes and prepare training manuals for users.
Software engineer salaries per annum usually range from S$66,000 to S$130,000.
Career Requirements
One of the most common questions asked is which qualifications are necessary for a software engineer. The truth is that it is possible to have a career in software engineering with no degree, but it is more difficult.
Software Engineers feel that they must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related technical field as a minimum degree requirement.
Engineers are also often encouraged to pursue Certification Programs or a Master’s Degree. This field of education is very wide, and specialisations can vary from Computer Science, Computer Programming, Computer Engineering, Information Technology or any related field.
A software engineer must possess logical and structural thinking, attention to detail, time management, an understanding of core programming languages and frameworks, and other software development skills.
Strong communication, decision-making, project management, programming skills and design are a must.
How to Become a Software Engineer
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
A Bachelor’s degree is a minimum requirement for many software engineering or development jobs. This degree will demonstrate your abilities and necessary skills needed for the job.
In order to create a unique competitive advantage, go for software internships. Or earn accolades such as a Certified Scrum Master certification.
This increases your chances of getting hired, and employers will understand that you already have basic experience for the position you are applying for.
Step 2: Acquire Work Experience
After completing your Bachelor’s Degree with an internship, you can now apply for software development jobs and acquire work experience. This will help you gain more skills and expand your understanding about the field.
Continue to network even after graduation to stand out from other candidates. In any work experience, broadening your network is important.
Get acquainted with professionals from different industries to increase your cross-industry knowledge and widen your opportunities.
Step 3: Pursue Personal Projects
Try doing personal projects outside of your work scope during your free time. These are an extremely effective way to show employers your commitment to software engineering, and enthusiasm for learning and exploring new frameworks and tools beyond your job scope.
You can actually learn a lot from taking on your own personal projects when it comes to software engineering.
Step 4: Consider Obtaining Certifications or a Master’s Degree
Certification programs and/or a Master’s Degree can advance your career and knowledge, and help you stay ahead of your competition.
An alternative to Master’s Degrees or Certifications is to attend software development seminar or short bootcamps.
Serving as “trials”, these bootcamps give you brief insight into these advanced fields of education before you commit yourself for the long-term. You’ll also find opportunities to network with different professionals in your niche.
Job Opportunities for Software Engineers in Singapore
There are massive advancements of IT and Software underway in Singapore and around the world.
The future is bright for software engineers, as long as you undertake continuous learning and continue to hone your skills.
Ready to Apply to Become a Software Engineer?
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Outside of his professional pursuits, he enjoys road cycling, diving deep into biographies, and devouring copious amounts of dumplings.
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