What do they do?
Software engineers research, design and develop computer software
systems
along with hardware product development. They collect and study
information to
determine needs and prepare reports describing how to solve problems.
They
develop mathematical models to solve engineering problems.
Work Activities
- Analyze software requirements to determine time and cost.
- Consult with engineering staff to evaluate the links between
hardware and
software.
- Plan and design software system.
- Work with customer in installation and maintenance.
Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of engineering, design, and economics.
- Skills in communicating in speaking and writing.
- Skills in scientific analysis and mathematical models.
- Skills in using computer technology.
- Be able to learn high levels of math and science and basic
principles of
engineering.
- Have high verbal ability to read, write, and explain technical
materials.
- Be able to visualize objects from pictures, drawings, and
descriptions and
to see slight differences in objects and drawings.
- Be able to understand computer terminology.
- Have problem-solving and creative abilities.
Work settings
Environment: Work indoors.
Hours: Usually work 40 hours a week.
Employers: Manufacturing firms, banks, insurance companies,
data
processing service organizations, and government agencies.
Employment & wages
By 2000, it's estimated that 454 computer engineers will be employed
in
Nebraska. Growth and/or turnover create approximately 23 annual job
openings.
It is estimated that 372,000 computer engineers will be employed in
the U.S. by
2005.
Projected growth
Nebraska - Much faster than average, 36%
National - Much faster than average, 90%
Nebraska annual beginning wage: $24,000 to $30,000
Nebraska annual experienced wage: $30,000 to $46,000
National annual average wage: $31,000 to $62,000
Licensing / certification & Training
Engineers whose work may affect public welfare must be registered by
the state.
To be registered as a software engineer, a person must complete four
to five
years of approved engineering training, have three to four years of
work
experience, and pass an exam given by the Board of Examiners of
Professional
Engineers and Architects. After completing college, a person may take
an exam
to be certified as an engineer-in-training.
- A bachelor's degree in computer science or electrical
engineering is
usually required.
- An advanced degree may be necessary for
some
employers.
Helpful high school subjects
High school subjects that may help prepare individuals for this
occupation
include English, literature, composition, algebra I and II, geometry,
foreign
language, biology, chemistry, physics, computer language, computer
applications,
electronics, government, and economics.
Bibliography
Nebraska Career Information System: Occupations (1996-97 ed.),
pp.
72-73.
Complete Guide for Occupational Exploration (1993 ed.), pp.
430-432.
Dictionary of Occupational Titles (4th ed. Revised, 1991), p.
43.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (1996-97 ed.), pp. 93.
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