menu iconmenu
share iconsearch

Software Engineer

Computer and software engineering is the creative application of engineering including the design and development of hardware and software computer systems. These systems play a major role in every aspect of our lives from entertainment and communications to healthcare and transport. Mobile phones, MP3 players and computerised cars are all developments which were realised by the ingenuity of computer and software engineers.

If you are interested in a career as a software engineer, visit Qualifax (www.qualifax.ie) to search for relevant courses at all levels and entry points. 

Some alternative job titles for this role

  • Computer Engineer
  • Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) Design Engineer
  • Computer Hardware Engineer
  • Microprocessor Designer and Application Engineer
  • Microelectronics Engineer

What the job involves 

  • Analyse software user needs and designing, constructing and maintaining computer applications software
  • Design networks
  • Produce specifications
  • Cost new or modified systems
  • Agree proposals
  • Write new software and operating manuals
  • Solve software-writing problems and maintenance issues
  • Test the product to ensure that it operates satisfactorily
  • Handle support and feedback
  • Design and provide the computer system design specifications for the building of computer software applications
  • Design, configure, implement and install complete computer systems

How your career can develop

Computer and Software engineering is experiencing significant growth both in Ireland and abroad. The need for well-qualified professional computer and software engineers, technologists and technicians is greater now than ever before.

Why it matters?

Software engineering is undergoing massive growth as a sector. Irish company Fenergo was set up by Irish software engineer Marc Murphy, who hopes to see the company grow revenues by €20 million a year until 2018.

Skills

  • Excellent technical and problem-solving skills
  • Good communication skills
  • Teamwork skills
  • Motivation
  • Creativity and a willingness to learn
  • Good maths skills
  • Keen interest in technology

Typical employers

  • IT consultancies
  • Software firms
  • Electronics developers
  • Microchip developers
  • Communications networks
  • Any organisation that uses computer systems
  • Self-employment is possible for individuals with several years' relevant experience

Typical salary

  • Graduate/Starting         €28,000
  • Senior/Potential           €75,000+ for software development manager

Typical qualifications

A degree in computing, software engineering, physics, mathematics or electronics is necessary for most entry positions. For graduates with non-computing degrees, full-time, part-time and distance learning postgraduate IT conversion courses are available at a wide range of institutions. The Irish Computer Society offers training and skills qualifications.

Alternative routes to a bachelor’s degree in this area may apply to students that have a PLC qualification in a related course or general engineering certification or diploma. For further details on eligibility requirements for third level entry following a PLC qualification, students should visit the CAO course search at Careersportal.ie

Further information