Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Software Developers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain software applications or systems. They play a key role in creating the computer programs and systems that power modern technology and digital services.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 25.7% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 115,200
Direct AI exposure: 5% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 84% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $136K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $82K per year | $105K per year | $136K per year | $172K per year | $215K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $85K above the national average. | ||||
Software Developers typically work in well-lit, comfortable office environments, though remote work is increasingly common. They are employed across various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government. The job often involves collaboration with other developers, designers, and project managers, and may require occasional overtime to meet project deadlines.
Software Developers are at the heart of the digital world, creating the applications and systems that facilitate modern life. Their work involves the entire lifecycle of software development, from initial concept and design to final deployment and maintenance. They need to be proficient in various programming languages and development frameworks, with an ability to think logically and solve problems efficiently.
The role of a Software Developer requires both technical skill and creativity. They must be able to understand complex requirements and translate them into functional software. This often involves writing clean, efficient, and well-documented code. Developers work in a fast-paced environment and need to be adaptable to changing technologies and methodologies.
Collaboration is a key aspect of the job, as developers often work in teams to build and refine software products. They must have good communication skills to interact with non-technical stakeholders and translate technical jargon into understandable language. Continuous learning is essential, as the field of software development is constantly evolving with new technologies and practices.
Most Software Developers have a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, which is about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions may require a master's degree or specific technical certifications.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
