Software Developers, Systems Software

Research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications. Set operational specifications and formulate and analyze software requirements. May design embedded systems software. Apply principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis.

Median Annual Wage: $102,880

Education: Bachelor's degree (77%); Master's degree (17%); Associate's degree (4%)

Projected Growth: Faster than average (15% to 21%)

Related Job Titles: Systems Engineer; Network Engineer; Software Developer; Software Engineer; Software Architect; Developer; Publishing Systems Analyst; Infrastructure Engineer; Senior Software Engineer; Systems Coordinator

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Software Developers, Systems Software.

More Computer and Mathematical Careers

  • Modify existing software to correct errors, to adapt it to new hardware, or to upgrade interfaces and improve performance.
  • Direct software programming and development of documentation.
  • Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures.
  • Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
  • Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.
  • Design or develop software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcome and consequences of design.
  • Consult with engineering staff to evaluate interface between hardware and software, develop specifications and performance requirements, or resolve customer problems.
  • Prepare reports or correspondence concerning project specifications, activities, or status.
  • Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.
  • Coordinate installation of software system.
  • Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Software Developers, Systems Software.

  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Social Perceptiveness - Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  • Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Software Developers, Systems Software.

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