Software engineers and designers

Usually, software engineers and designers must complete a bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer engineering, computer science or a related subject. Working in a co-op work program through a post-secondary institution can help those with job opportunities.

For some in this job, it could be beneficial to have the Information Systems Professional (ISP) designation, which is issued by the Canada’s Association of Information Technology (IT) Professionals (CIPS). To receive this, a person must have:

• Graduated from an accredited computer science or information systems program, or
• Passed the ISP examination offered by the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP)

Licensing by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required to practise as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.). To obtain a Professional Engineer licence, candidates must have the equivalent to graduation from an accredited program in engineering, a period of work experience that demonstrates the required competencies to practise engineering and pass a professional practice examination on the professional obligations, law and ethics of engineering practice in Canada. In British Columbia, this is done through Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. (EGBC).

Other qualifications that can be helpful in finding a job as a software engineer and designer include:

• Membership in a professional association – this may be required by some employers, particularly jobs that involve public safety or supervisory work
• A master's or doctoral degree in a related subject
• Knowledge of the most up-to-date technology in their area of focus

Throughout their careers, software engineers and designers are expected to continue training. If they are licensed through EGBC, they may need to do this so they can keep their licence current. EGBC offers courses, self-directed studies, seminars and other professional development opportunities for its members.

Software engineers and designers should know how to communicate well because they often lead or work in teams and can be asked to explain complicated software designs to clients. Critical thinking and problem solving are also skills that are an advantage.

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The B.C. Labour Market Outlook is a 10-year forecast of the expected supply and demand for labour in the province. It’s usually updated every year. The purpose is to provide British Columbians with the knowledge to make informed decisions on careers, skills training, education and hiring.

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Software engineers often work for companies that are involved in the development of safety critical software and systems. These are systems such as aircraft, cars and medical devices – which means if they fail, someone could die. People who work in this job must be detail oriented, responsible and have a commitment to making sure that each part of their job is done well.

Those in this career need to continue to update their skills regularly since improvements and changes in technology often affect their work. More and more, employers want their software engineers and designers to have graduated from a CEAB-accredited program and be licensed with Engineers and Geoscientists B.C. (EGBC).

The health-care sector increasingly needs software engineers to design, develop, evaluate and maintain safe and secure eHealth information systems.