A computer software engineer is an expert in computer systems who designs, develops, improves, and maintains software. These engineers typically work in one of two categories: computer applications software or computer systems software. Applications are pieces of software designed to help people perform a certain activity, such as tracking physical activity on a smartwatch or playing video games on a phone. Systems software is what makes a computer run. Without it, the hardware is simply a lump of plastic and silicon.

Software engineers typically develop the mathematical formula used to create the code that will tell the software what to do. They use flowcharts and diagrams to demonstrate how the software should function so that developers, programmers, and coders can produce entirely new software or produce an update for existing work. Learn about this exciting career today!