How to become A Systems Software Developer

“A clever person solves a problem. A wise person avoids it.” Computer systems software developers are those intelligent and wise beings who conceptualize, design, construct, install, maintain and repair dynamic computer systems.

• Computer Programmer
• Programmer
• Developer
• Software Coder
• Software Engineer

What do Systems Software Developers do?

A Systems Software Developer would typically need to:

• Analyze user needs; create, test, and develop software that will solve a problem, provide entertainment, or simply make life easier for its intended audience
• Apply the principles of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis to set operational specifications while formulating and analyzing software requirements
• Map out the design, create flowcharts, and draft out each step of the process; build diagrams and models to instruct programmers how to write the code for the program
• Design embedded systems software; develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures; refer to stored data to analyze and modify system limitations, capabilities, and requirements
• Map out the software for future upgrades and enhancements; test the software and collaborate with other computer specialists to make sure it is of optimal quality
• Write documentation and operating manuals; train users to use new or modified equipment; ensure system security and data assurance; respond to feedback
• Have the ability to design, analyze, and troubleshoot technology at a systems level; find, diagnose, and fix bugs
• Install intranets; specify power supply requirements and configuration

Systems Software Development work is mainly office-based or in computer laboratories where various developers, designers, programmers collaborate. Full or part-time remote working is becoming increasingly common.

If employed with consulting firms or software vendors, software developers may need to travel to meet clients. Jeans and collared shirts or T-shirts are often accepted as the dress code.

Most Systems Software Developers work full time, and long hours are standard. They may need to work evenings and weekends to meet deadlines and resolve problems.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Systems Software Developers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Systems Software Developers are generally employed by:

• Specialist Computer Software Development Companies
• Software Publishers
• Financial Services Firms
• Banks
• Technology Consultancies
• Telecommunications Companies
• Public Sector Organizations
• Companies in the Manufacturing Industry
• Law Firms

Professional associations and organizations like the International Organization of Software Developers (IOSD) are a crucial resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Requirements not clearly defined changed arbitrarily, or defined but miscommunicated
• Compelled by the management to work on more projects than you have time for or use a specific set of tools even when you know there are not the right ones for the job on hand
• Staying current with new languages, frameworks, and tools; striving to develop high-quality, high performance, and secure code
• Eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, or back problems due to long hours working with computers
• Maintaining work-life balance

Interning with software companies during their undergraduate course would allow students to get hands-on experience and learn from professionals. Apprenticeships for systems software development are on the rise as well.

The essential academic requirement is a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering. Other related fields you could major in include mathematics, information technology, informatics, or artificial engineering. Most employers prefer that you are well-versed in multiple programming languages.

While a bachelor’s degree is a sufficient qualification to work as a Systems Software Developer, one could also opt to get a master’s degree in computer science or engineering, which could be an asset in the job market.

However, recent research denotes that a majority of software developers claim to be at least partly self-taught. The diverse educational paths open to a developer include learning in school, online, or on the job or a happy combination of all options.

There are several available certifications in software development. Appropriate certification will give you an edge in the market.

Performance, experience, and acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.

Much of a Software Developer’s career path will include spending several years as a Senior Developer. People who love to write code and are not enamored with management may spend many years or even their entire career as a Senior Developer. However, this position can also be a jumping-off point to management positions that can include Lead Developer or Chief Technological Officer of a startup.

A Lead Developer or Architect role is for someone who wants more responsibility. Lead Developer positions are often seen as transitional roles to a mid-level manager position, whereas Architect is a technical position and usually not a transitional role. Technical Architects are often considered the highest position on the technical career ladder.

Lead Developers usually progress to being a Mid-Level Manager who keeps track of workflow and productivity. Soon after, they become Senior Managers such as Director, Vice President, or Chief Technology Officer. They make executive-level decisions, including long-term strategy, setting goals and initiatives, plus accountability for entire departments.

Another way of climbing up the career ladder would be to opt to work towards and become a Project Manager and oversee and guide software development.

Job competition for Systems Software Developers is high. Job prospects will be best for applicants with knowledge of the most up-to-date programming tools and for those who are proficient in one or more programming languages.

The pursuit of a master’s program and certification to ensure thorough knowledge of hardware, software, and programming languages would help career advancement. Significant knowledge of the field that your employer specializes in will come in handy.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is the holistic commitment of a System Software Developer towards enhancing personal skills and proficiency throughout their active careers through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. There are many CPD courses, seminars, and workshops to help professionals in the field.

CPD prevents practical and academic qualifications from becoming outdated. It enables a System Software Developer to identify any knowledge gaps and progress to a new specialism.

Herein lies the difference between Applications Software Developers and Systems Software Developers.

Applications Software Developers

To put it briefly, their understanding of user needs helps them design computer or mobile applications mainly for consumers’ direct benefit. Then they go on to develop software solutions, monitor their performance, and accordingly modify them.

Systems Software Developers

They focus on operating systems-level and network distribution software, as well as compilers. Their work aims to design solutions for enterprises and include developing software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications.

You will work in a dynamic, constantly evolving field, creating, auditing, and improving systems software according to the company’s needs and the field.

Projects may be undertaken alone or in small teams. You may also choose to work as a freelancer with the dynamic growth of technology and the consequent increase in demand for all Systems Software Developers.

Optimal Solutions

The most popular solution to limited capacity is to hire more people, so more developers can get things done. After that comes implementing agile methods. Sharing of knowledge can be optimized through mentoring, pair programming and code reviews, less formal brown bag lunches, and company hackathons.

Current Trends

Studies reveal that the most popular programming languages at the moment are Javascript, Java, and Typescript.

Degrees and certifications seem to have taken second place in the hiring process. Most tech companies are focused on the candidate’s willingness to learn, work experience and technical skill evaluation test, and cultural fit. In a rapidly changing world, people should adapt to new circumstances and find new opportunities to do the job better.

On the other hand, most Software Developers seem to be drawn towards employers who can offer them a positive work culture, challenging work, flexible work hours, and professional growth opportunities.

Developers prefer Star Wars to Star Trek.

Systems Software Developers can emerge from almost any background, whether they started programming at an early age and majored in computer science (CS) or taught themselves how to code later in life. Software engineering is not a label—it's a process where you keep getting better at being a software developer.

Be open to continuous learning and development no matter your role. Understand the value of all roles in an organization, including managers, executives, and senior technical personnel, regardless of where you would like to go in your career.