Given that the world has gone largely online in the past century, it’s probably safe to say that software developers will always be in demand for the foreseeable future. As far as income stability and job security, it’s certainly hard to beat.
However, as with most things worth achieving, getting hired as a software developer isn’t easy. Unlike customer service representatives, aspiring software developers would need a specific college degree or at least certain certifications. But there are a lot of online job opportunities in this field.
Let’s have a look.
What Are Software Developers?
Software developers design, create, and maintain the apps and programs people use on their computers, smartphones, or tablets.
They use various programming languages like Java, C++, and Python to write instructions (i.e., codes) telling devices what to do.
Role Description and Responsibilities
As a software developer, you would be involved in all phases of the software development process. Hence, this includes everything from gathering data on user requirements to testing and debugging programs to ensure they meet the latter.
Specifically, your responsibilities might include:
- Analyzing user requirements,
- Developing, testing, and implementing new software programs,
- Regularly communicating with management and technical support,
- Designing and updating software databases,
- Maintaining and recommending software improvements for strong functionality and optimization,
- Analyzing root causes of system issues,
- Installing, customizing, and integrating commercial software packages, either independently or per management’s requirements,
- Resolving technical issues,
- Providing support to internal customers, and
- Keeping tabs on technological developments within the industry.
Average Salary for Developers in the Philippines
The average monthly salary for a full-time entry-level software developer ranges from PHP 30,000 to PHP 35,000.
On the other hand, expert-level developers can expect a salary range of PHP 80,000 to PHP 100,000 per month.
Skills Required
Usually, job orders for software developers might require familiarity or proficiency in a certain programming language or platform. Python, Laravel PHP, Linux, JavaScript, Bash/Shell, and HTML5 are just some of the buzzwords you might encounter when perusing job openings.
Generally, the top skills you’ll need to become an in-demand software developer include:
- Excellent problem-solving skills,
- Proficiency in coding and programming,
- Able to identify and fix bugs and ensure software quality via rigorous testing,
- Knowledge of Agile, Scrum, and DevOps practices for efficient project management and collaboration,
- Experience with tools like Git for tracking changes and collaborating on code,
- An understanding of database systems and SQL for managing and retrieving data,
- Basic knowledge of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design principles to build user-friendly applications, and
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
The most popular programming languages software developers use today include:
- JavaScript:
- Python:
- Python is a versatile, easy-to-learn language used in web development, data science, automation, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Its powerful libraries (like Django for web development and TensorFlow for AI) make it a premier choice for diverse projects, from building websites to advanced data analysis.
- Java:
- Java is a long-time, general-purpose programming language widely used for developing large-scale systems, especially in enterprise environments.
- It’s also the main language for Android App Development, making it essential for mobile developers.
- Its stability and scalability make it extremely popular in big businesses.
- C#:
- Developed by Microsoft, C# is heavily used in Windows app development and game development via Unity, a popular game engine.
- Its integration with Microsoft platforms also makes it valuable for enterprise software development.
- SQL:
- SQL (Structured Query Language) is a specialized language used to query and manage relational databases.
- It is essential for handling and retrieving information for almost any application that stores user data.
- TypeScript:
- Typescript is a superset of JavaScript that makes large projects more manageable and less prone to errors by adding type safety.
- It’s especially useful in large-scale web applications, where keeping codes clean and bug-free is paramount.
- Ruby:
- Ruby is popular for web development, particularly with the Ruby on Rails framework.
- Its simplicity and user-friendliness make it a favorite for startups and small teams building web apps quickly.
- Swift:
- A programming language developed by Apple for iOS and macOS development, Swift is essential for building apps in the Apple ecosystem.
- Its performance and modern features make it the go-to language for many iOS app developers.
What Should Be On Your Resume?
As mentioned earlier, certain degrees or certifications are non-negotiable. Prospective clients can’t waste time on people who don’t know what they’re doing, so your resume’s contents should say otherwise.
Thus, a typical software developer applicant’s resume would look like this:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as a BS in Computer Science or an equivalent certification;
- Relevant technology skills, such as the programming languages they’re proficient in;
- Applicable job experiences (e.g., successfully created and integrated e-commerce sites with payment API’s like PayPal, etc.);
It’s best to keep your resume to one page. Also, remember to list only your relevant skills and qualifications for that software development job. Core skills will trump wide skills when you apply for the job.
Does this sound like you? Are you up for putting your skills to the test and trying out a flexible and rewarding career as a remote software developer? Sign up on the Remote Staff platform today and let us show you how.
