WWW: Beyond the Basics

7. Web Related Careers

7.3. Popular Career Titles

7.3.8 Software Engineer/Programmer

Description

The Software Engineer designs and develops the software necessary to run an Internet server. They design servers, routers, and firewalls. He or she sets up the Internet accounts for a company, and insures that everything runs smoothly. The Programmer actually implements and maintains the server and/or routers, and any applications needed for their site. Usually, these two jobs are performed by the same person, for which they are a Software Engineer/Programmer. Their skills include basic knowledge of Operating Systems, Programming Languages, and Internetworking. They should know several languages and utilities such as Java, HTML, C++, and CGI. They should have experience with UNIX Systems, have some knowledge of Database Systems, and be familiar with several Web browsers. Communication skills are necessary to provide support to clients of the Web Site. Other names for Software Engineering/Programmer are Systems Analyst, Web/Internet Application Developers and Software Developers.

Education Requirement

Software Engineers usually have degrees in technical fields such as Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science. They acquire their basic training from their formal education and get some Internet coverage via these degrees. However, with the WWW concept being new, these persons acquire the majority of their Internet knowledge on their own and from experience working with the Internet and the World Wide Web. Reading many books and articles is a big part of acquiring knowledge about the Web. The Internet can provide a volume of helpful information.

Salary

Software Engineers/Programmers can demand a salary in the range of $30K-$70K depending on education level and experience.

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Copyright © 1996 Felicia Doswell, All Rights Reserved

Felicia Doswell <doswell@csgrad.cs.vt.edu>