You could earn a lucrative entry-level Software Engineer salary with the right skills.
Hiring trends in the tech industry have evolved rapidly, but the demand for Software Engineers remains high. Software Engineers develop and maintain innovative applications, from artificial intelligence technologies to social media platforms. Their in-depth knowledge of computer science and versatile skill set make them invaluable in many industries. According to Karat’s 2023 Tech Hiring Trends Report(opens new window), 55% of leaders believe that a strong Software Engineer is worth 3x their total compensation.
The recruiting company Robert Half predicts that software engineering will be one of the hottest careers of 2024(opens new window). But should you pursue a career in this growing field? We examine the entry-level salary for Software Engineers, skills, and more.
What Can Entry-Level Software Engineers Earn?
According to Indeed(opens new window), the average salary for Software Engineers in the United States is $118,000. These professionals also earn an average of $5,000 in bonuses on top of their base wages.
Here's a breakdown of the average salary by career stage:
- Entry-level: $110,000
- Mid-level: $130,000
- Senior-level: $148,000
Some Software Engineers earn significantly more than the average due to their education, certifications, skills, and other factors. Levels.fyi(opens new window) reports that the top 25% of Software Engineers make an average of $237,000, and the top 10% earn $316,000.
Where Do Entry-Level Software Engineers Earn the Most?
Geographic location is one of the biggest factors influencing the entry-level Software Engineer salary. Two positions in different cities may have very different salaries, even with the same job title and responsibilities.
Software Engineers often earn high wages in cities with booming tech hubs. Here are the top-paying cities for Software Engineers and their average salaries:
Data Source: Indeed (2023)
Here’s a breakdown of the average Software Engineer salary for the highest-paying states:
Data Source: ZipRecruiter (2023)(opens new window)
Note: Cost of living can vary drastically, even between cities in the same state. You can use an online cost of living calculator to compare options and determine which areas will give you the most spending power.
Entry-Level Software Engineer Salaries Compared by Profession
People with a background in software engineering can use their technical skills to pursue many related careers. Here’s a breakdown of the average salaries for comparable professions:
Data Source: Indeed (2023)
What Skills Do Entry-Level Engineers Need?
There are many paths to becoming a Software Engineer. Some people complete a four-year degree in computer science, but a college education isn’t a requirement for many positions. Employers frequently prefer to hire people with practical skills over those with only a degree.
Entry-level software engineering jobs often require these foundational technical skills:
- Programming languages: All Software Engineers should have proficiency in at least one programming language. The specific products you want to build can help you determine which language(s) to study. For example, you can use JavaScript to create websites' front and back ends, while C++ allows you to design operating systems and video games.
- Frameworks: Many Software Engineers use frameworks to simplify and streamline software development. Frameworks are the blueprints for building applications. They provide pre-written components of code that you can combine and customize to create software. Popular frameworks include AngularJS for JavaScript, Ruby on Rails for Ruby, and Django for Python.
- Debugging: Software Engineers use various techniques to identify and fix errors in code, including manually inspecting source code and testing individual components. They also use debugging tools like Visual Studio Code and Android Studio Debugger.
- Database Management: Understand how to choose appropriate database structures, organize data, query databases, and implement security measures.
The Software Engineer career path also requires strong soft skills, including:
- Adaptability: Software engineering evolves quickly as new technologies and trends emerge. Keep up with these changes by continuously learning new tools and methods.
- Documentation: Create clear and concise documentation so other Software Engineers can understand and maintain your projects. Common types of documentation include code comments, deployment guides, and user manuals.
- Public Speaking: Software Engineers must present their work to clients, stakeholders, and other audiences. Learn how to simplify complex technical concepts and share them with people from non-technical backgrounds.
Are Software Engineers in Demand?
Recent layoffs have shaken up the tech industry, but many companies are still hiring Software Engineers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics(opens new window) predicts that the number of jobs for Software Developers will increase by 26% between 2022 and 2032.
Several technological developments are reshaping software engineering, including:
- Artificial intelligence: Software Engineers increasingly use AI to automate routine tasks, such as writing basic code and debugging. This technology accelerates product development and reduces errors.
- Augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR): This technology creates engaging and interactive user experiences. For example, Software Engineers can use AR to design employee training simulations and VR to build immersive games for the elderly.
Developing practical skills can help you land your first software engineering job and adapt to emerging trends.
Starting Your Career as an Entry-Level Software Engineer with Multiverse
Software engineering can open the door to many lucrative tech careers. Get started quickly with Multiverse’s free software engineering apprenticeship. You’ll gain in-demand technical skills as you complete a collaborative bootcamp, solve real business problems, and work for top companies.
Multiverse’s structured program only takes 15 months to complete, so that you can fast-track your career development. Here, you’ll build your professional network by participating in cooperative activities like hackathons and connecting with the Multiverse community. Industry-expert coaches also provide personalized 1:1 guidance to help you succeed personally and professionally.
Ready to make your software engineering dreams a reality? Fill out our quick application(opens new window), and we’ll get in touch to help you find the perfect role.
