Junior software developer salary - job description
A software developer designs, develops and builds software (desktop and mobile programs and web applications) in line with the client’s wishes. They first consult with the client (or employer) to identify and understand their needs and translate this into a software design using their tech knowledge. This process may involve market and business research and investing new technologies. To create the software, a software developer will write, test and refine code, particularly for elements relating to client/user experience. Software developers also create technical specifications and operational documents for the software they develop.
Since technology is such an important part of modern business, software developers aren’t just needed at software development companies. Other examples of common employers of software developers are banks, financial services firms, telecommunications companies, online retailers and public sector organisations.
Skills and education
Software development is a highly technical career and junior software developers usually have a Bachelor’s degree in IT, specifically data, systems and/or programming. They have strong coding skills, predominantly in C#, and a thorough overall understanding of software design and development right off the bat. And, with so much time spent at the keyboard working on code, software engineers need to be able to concentrate for long stretches at a time. Patience and an eye for detail are useful in this regard too.
Since software developers are responsible for liaising with the client on design matters, they need to have excellent communication skills. In addition, designing and creating software is often a team effort with multiple roles involved, which means teamwork and project management skills are also essential for a smooth process.
Salary
Junior software developer is an IT job that can command a very good salary. Of course, this is affected by location and employer, as well as level of education and specialisation. For example, supplementary courses or a Master’s to deepen your expertise and/or knowledge of additional programming languages such as Java, Python and .Net can improve your salary prospects. The average junior software developer salary is £21-28,000. However, there’s a steep increase as you get more experienced and progress in your career, with an earning potential of around £70,000.
Salary sources:
https://www.technojobs.co.uk/
https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/
https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/software-engineer
https://www.payscale.com/research/UK/Job=Software_Developer/Salary