Types of Software Engineers You Should Know About

Software engineering is key to creating complex systems and apps in various industries. It involves many different specialties, each focused on improving software, from how it looks to how secure it is. As technology advances quickly, software engineers always learn and adapt to new challenges, helping push innovation forward. If you are looking for a new career or considering changing your specialization to a more rewarding or relevant technical expertise, this article might help you decide. Additionally, if you want to stay updated on the most popular types of software engineers in today's market, you've come to the right place. Let’s explore various software engineer roles currently available, helping you navigate your options and choose a path that best aligns with your aspirations.

Who are Software Engineers?

Software developers use engineering principles and proficiency in programming languages to create user-tailored software solutions. They design and develop a wide range of software products, including business applications, various operating systems, network control systems, data systems, database systems, distributed systems, computer games, and middleware, among other specialized fields.

According to Gartner's research, several key IT technologies are supposed to be in high demand as we look toward 2025. One of the front runners is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). These technologies continue to evolve rapidly and are being integrated across various software applications, from autonomous vehicles to personalized healthcare, predictive analytics in business, and beyond. Other technologies that will likely increase demand include cybersecurity measures, cloud computing services, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, and blockchain technology.

High-Demand Types of Software Engineers

The software engineering field is diverse and dynamic. It encompasses a variety of specializations, each focusing on different aspects of software development and technology. So, let's explore what types of software engineers are there.

The article mentions the average annual salary range brutto (before taxes) in the United States as of Q3 2024, according to ZipRecruiter market research.

1. ML and AI Engineer

Machine learning and artificial intelligence engineers focus on developing technologies that enable systems to perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence. They utilize data-driven algorithms and a strong foundation in software engineering.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency in using statistical packages and techniques

• Experience with machine learning tools like Jupyter Notebook, Google Colab, and TensorFlow Extended (TFX)

• Knowledge of machine learning libraries like TensorFlow, scikit-learn, and PyTorch

• Skilled in languages such as Python, R, and others used frequently in data science and AI development

• Ability to effectively design and test data models, ensuring they meet the requirements

• Knowledge in areas such as natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, and algorithm optimization

Annual Salary Range

• ML engineer: $31,500 - $193,500

• AI engineer: $39,000 - $137,500

2. Security Engineer

These software developers specialize in building systems, methods, and procedures to ensure the company's software and hardware security.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Knowledge of secure coding practices, ethical hacking, and threat modeling

• Experience with firewall and intrusion detection/prevention protocols

• Understanding of risk assessment tools, technologies, and methods

• Experience designing secure networks, systems, and application architectures

Annual Salary Range

$61,500 - $205,500

3. Cloud Engineer

Cloud developers focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining cloud computing services. These software engineer roles involve managing cloud-based infrastructure and helping businesses migrate to cloud solutions.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Skilled in cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform and infrastructure automation tools such as Terraform

• Proficient with container technologies like Docker and Kubernetes

• Knowledgeable in network configuration, cloud security practices, and database management

Annual Salary Range

$49,000 - $181,500

4. IoT Engineer

Internet of Things software engineer specializes in designing, developing, and deploying IoT solutions to connect and automate various devices and systems. These engineers ensure the seamless integration of hardware and software to collect and manage data efficiently.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Expertise in IoT architecture and system design

• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, and C

• Experience with IoT communication protocols and networking

• Knowledge of sensor technologies and embedded systems

• Understanding of data analytics and cloud computing

Annual Salary Range

$39,000 - $137,500

5. Blockchain Engineer

These software engineers develop and implement digital solutions based on blockchain technology. Blockchain engineers focus on creating secure blockchain architectures and optimizing decentralized applications.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency in blockchain technology and smart contract development

• Experience with programming languages like Solidity, Golang, C++

• Understanding of consensus algorithms

• Knowledge of cryptography and blockchain protocols

Annual Salary Range

$63,500 - $205,500

6. Front-End Engineer

These software developers specialize in building the visual, interactive aspects of web and mobile applications that users see and interact with within their web browsers and mobile apps.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency with HTML, CSS, JavaScript

• Experience with front-end and JavaScript frameworks

• Understanding of responsive design and cross-browser compatibility

• Basic knowledge of SEO principles

Annual Salary Range

$61,000 - $198,000

7. Back-End Engineer

These software engineers focus on server-side development, creating the logic and functionality that runs behind the scenes.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with server-side languages like Python, Ruby, Java, or Node.js

• Knowledge of database management (SQL or NoSQL)

• Deep understanding of server, network, and hosting environments

Annual Salary Range

$60,500 - $199,000

8. Full-Stack Engineer

Encompassing both front-end and back-end development, full-stack engineers are capable of working on all aspects of an application.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficient in both front-end and back-end languages and frameworks

• Strong understanding of database management and data modeling

• Ability to manage a hosting environment, including database administration and scaling applications

• Knowledge of security, session management, and best development practices

Annual Salary Range

$44,500 - $190,500

9. DevOps Engineer

These software engineers work at the intersection of software development and IT operations to improve collaboration and productivity by automating infrastructure and workflows and continuously measuring application performance.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Strong background in Linux/Unix administration

• Experience with automation and configuration management tools (e.g., Puppet, Chef, Ansible)

• Knowledge of programming or scripting

• Experience with CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitLab, or CircleCI

Annual Salary Range

$34,000 - $179,500

10. Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer

These software engineers ensure that the final product meets the company's standards. QA engineers focus on testing software products to identify defects, bugs, or other issues. Within this field are manual testers, who manually test software for issues, and automation testers, who use automated testing tools to conduct tests more efficiently.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with automation tools (e.g., Selenium, TestComplete, or QTP) for automation testers and debugging tools and test case management tools (e.g., JIRA, TestRail, or Quality Center) for manual testers

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Understanding of software development life cycles

• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality

Annual Salary Range

$36,500 - $138,500

11. Mobile Developer

Software engineers in mobile development focus on building mobile apps for devices like smartphones and tablets.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficiency with Swift and Objective-C for iOS development or Java and Kotlin for Android

• Experience with mobile development frameworks and environments

• Understanding of mobile user interface design

• Knowledge of mobile back-end services, including data storage and access

Annual Salary Range

$23,500 - $172,000

12. Data Engineer

These software developers specialize in designing, building, and maintaining the architecture used for data generation, storage, and analysis. They work with big data technologies, data modeling, and ETL processes.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Experience with big data tools (Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, etc.)

• Knowledge of data modeling and warehousing

• Proficient in SQL and other programming languages

• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving ability

Annual Salary Range

$44,500 - $177,500

13. Embedded Systems Engineer

These engineers develop software that controls machines or devices that are not traditional computers. They often require a deep understanding of hardware and software to create efficient and reliable systems.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Programming skills in Python, JavaScript, or C++

• Knowledge of IoT networks, protocols (like MQTT, CoAP), and hardware

• Experience with cloud platforms and services related to IoT

Annual Salary Range

$62,500 - $192,000

14. Operating Systems Engineer

This software engineer is involved in planning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems and operations. The operating systems engineer role requires a strong understanding of both software and hardware used within a company.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficient in system architecture, administration, and scripting languages like Bash or Python

• Experienced with Linux/Unix, Windows, network protocols, Docker, and Kubernetes

• Skilled in using monitoring tools like Nagios and managing IT security

Annual Salary Range

$53,500 - $167,000

15. Data Scientist

These software engineers use statistical, analytical, and programming skills to collect, analyze, and interpret large data sets. Data scientists utilize this information to develop data-driven solutions to complex business challenges.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficient in statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization with tools like Python, R, and Tableau

• Experienced with big data technologies and SQL databases

Annual Salary Range

$37,500 - $196,500

16. Game Developer

Software engineering specialists in game development design and create video games for computers, consoles, and mobile devices. This role involves programming game functionality and working on graphics, audio, and performance optimizations.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficient in programming languages like C++, C#, or Java

• Experienced with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine

• Skilled in graphics, animation, and AI programming for games

Annual Salary Range

$32,500 - $180,000

17. Robotics Engineer

This software engineer designs and builds robotic systems and applications, working on software development and integration with hardware components to create automated solutions.

Must-Have Skills and Qualifications

• Proficient in programming languages like C++ and Python

• Experienced with robotics algorithms, sensor integration, and hardware design

• Skilled in using robotics development platforms and tools

Annual Salary Range

$29,000 - $169,000

Industry Applications

Software engineers are important in every industry sector, applying their technical skills to solve problems, optimize systems, and innovate new products and services. Here's how different types of software developers contribute to various industries:

1. Finance (Banking, Fintech, Insurance)

• Back-end and full-stack engineers develop secure and robust server-side logic for handling transactions, user authentication, and data storage.

• DevOps engineers implement automated pipelines and maintain infrastructure to ensure smooth financial software deployments and minimize downtime.

• Security engineers implement encryption, conduct regular vulnerability assessments, and monitor systems to prevent breaches.

2. Healthcare

• Mobile developers create applications that allow users to manage their health records, book appointments, and consult with doctors virtually.

• AI and ML engineers develop algorithms to diagnose conditions from imaging data, predict patient outcomes, and personalize treatment plans.

3. E-commerce

• Front-end engineers create fast, responsive, and visually appealing interfaces that make it easy for customers to navigate online stores and make purchases.

• Cloud engineers ensure that e-commerce platforms are scalable to handle increases in shopping traffic, especially during peak times like Black Friday or Cyber Monday.

• DevOps engineers automate and optimize the software delivery process to ensure that new features can be deployed quickly and efficiently, which is crucial for staying competitive in fast-moving markets.

4. Space and Aeronautics

• Embedded systems engineers are crucial in developing satellite, spacecraft, and ground station software.

• Operating systems engineers create software systems that support mission operations and ground control, including telemetry and remote operations.

5. Automotive

• Robotics and embedded systems engineers develop advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and other automated systems in modern vehicles, from software in engine control modules (ECMs) to algorithms for self-driving functionalities.

Summing Up

As technology advances, the variety of software engineering jobs grows, offering many chances for career development and creativity. The opportunities in this field are endless, from key roles like software development engineers to specialized areas like data science and cybersecurity. It's crucial for anyone wanting to make a significant impact in software engineering to keep learning and stay updated with new technologies.

The field of software engineering offers many specialized software engineer roles. Each software engineering job requires a distinct set of technical expertise. The depth and breadth of knowledge needed in software engineering roles underscore the importance of these professionals.

The need for skilled software engineers grows every day. Whether starting or advancing in the field, there are plenty of opportunities to learn, grow, and significantly impact software engineering. Staying committed to learning and adapting to new skills is essential for success. Tools like Coding Stories prove invaluable in supporting this continual growth and adaptation. By enabling developers to share and learn from each other's experiences and solutions, Coding Stories enriches the community's collective knowledge and aids in nurturing a generation of well-equipped software engineers.