Occupation Description:
Computer Software Engineers, Applications
SD Change Rating 
2010 Current Employment 435
2020 Projected Employment 570
10% Start Wage n/a
25% Start Wage n/a
Average Wage n/a
* Wages Updated to Quarter Ending September 2012
Computer applications software engineers analyze users needs and design, create and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Different programming languages are used, depending on the purpose of the program. The programming languages most often used are C, C++ and Java with Fortran and Cobol used less commonly. Some applications software engineers develop both packaged systems and systems software or create customized applications.
Work Place Examples: Top South Dakota industries in which you can find employment for this occupation.
- Computer systems design and related services
- Management of companies and enterprises
- Cable and other program distribution
- Business support services
- Other personal services
Working Conditions:
Computer applications software engineers work in office or laboratory settings in comfortable surroundings. They generally work a standard week, but may work nights and weekends when necessary to meet deadlines. Because of the convenience technology offers, some computer engineers and systems analysts work at least part of the time out of their homes or personal offices. Like others who work almost exclusively on a computer, these workers are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort and hand/wrist problems like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Training Qualifications: For training related information such as where you can go to receive training and programs offered in South Dakota, please click on the Training Providers & Programs link on the menu to the right.
Hiring Preference - Bachelor's degree
Training Requirement - Bachelor's Degree in computer science, software engineering, computer science, computer information systems or related program
Computer applications software engineers should be able to concentrate and think logically and should like working with ideas and details. They should also enjoy working either as part of a team or independently.
Recommended high school classes include upper-level math, science and computer courses.
Apprenticeship Training:
No apprenticeship required.
Licensing Requirements: If licensing is required please check the link below for information on requirements.
No licensing required.
Skills: Skills required for success in this occupation!
- Operations Analysis - Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Programming - Writing computer programs for various purposes.
- Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating erros and deciding what to do about it.
- Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Judgement and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Interest Areas: These are the interest areas for this occupation! You may wish to check out other occupations that match your interests. If you haven't tried it yet, you might want to take the built-in interest surveys under the section entitled Examine Your Possiblities.
- Investigative - "Thinker" These individuals are interested in science and logic. They like to analyze, evaluate and solve problems, and enjoy learning and understanding the causes of events.
- Realistic - "Doer" These individuals prefer to work with objects, things, machines, tools, plants, or animals. They have mechanical ability, enjoy being outdoors, and working with their hands.
- Conventional - "Organizer" These individuals are detail oriented and organized. They like to analyze data, keep financial records and do research. They can be counted on to be accurate and enjoy structure and closure.
O*Net Link: For additional occupational information you should check out this link!
http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/15-1031.00
SDWorks: Find your South Dakota career opportunity for this occupation!
https://apps.sd.gov/applications/LD10SDWORKS_SS_Seeker/SS_Seeker_Quick_Search.aspx?ONet=15103100
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