Software Developers

Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $135,980/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$82,460$214,670

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +15.8% projected growth, 2024–2034 — much faster than average.

About 115,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

ProgrammingCritical ThinkingJudgment and Decision MakingSystems AnalysisReading ComprehensionActive LearningActive ListeningTechnology DesignComplex Problem SolvingSystems Evaluation

Top knowledge areas

Computers and ElectronicsMathematicsCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageEducation and TrainingEngineering and TechnologyDesignTelecommunications

Core tasks

• Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.

• Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures, programming, or documentation.

• Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.

• Modify existing software to correct errors, adapt it to new hardware, or upgrade interfaces and improve performance.

• Prepare reports or correspondence concerning project specifications, activities, or status.

• Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.

• Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.

• Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and consequences of design.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Software Developers?

The median pay for Software Developers is $135,980 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Software Developers?

Employment for Software Developers is projected to change +15.8% from 2024 to 2034 - much faster than average.

What education is typically required for Software Developers?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Software Developers?

About 115,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.