Are you dreaming of becoming a software engineer, but don’t know where to start? Do you have the passion and the skills, but lack the experience and the credentials? If so, you’re not alone. Many aspiring software engineers face the same challenges when trying to land their first job in the industry. But don’t worry, whether you are looking for remote software engineer jobs, in office or hybrid, we got you.
In this blog, we will share with you some tips and tricks on how to get an entry level software engineering job, even if you have no prior experience.
What is an entry level software engineering job?
An entry level software engineering job is a position that requires little to no professional experience in software development. It is ideal for beginners who want to learn from more senior engineers and gain exposure to various aspects of software engineering. Entry level software engineers typically work on tasks such as debugging, testing, writing code, or updating documentation. They may also contribute to new features or improve existing ones.
Entry level software engineering jobs can be found in various industries and domains, such as web development, mobile development, data science, machine learning, cybersecurity, gaming, and more. The requirements and responsibilities of entry level software engineers may vary depending on the company, the project, and the role.
How much do entry level software engineers make?
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for entry level software engineers in the United States is $87,508 per year. However, this figure may vary depending on factors such as location, education, skills, and performance. Junior software engineers may also receive additional benefits such as bonuses, stock options, health insurance, retirement plans, and more.
How to find entry level software engineering jobs?
Finding entry level software engineering jobs can be challenging, especially if you don’t have a strong network or an impressive resume. However, there are some steps that you can take to increase your chances of getting hired. Here are some of them:
1. Build your working experiences through internships
One of the best ways to get your foot in the door of the software engineering industry is to complete an internship. An internship is a short-term work experience that allows you to learn from experienced professionals and gain practical skills. Internships can also help you build your portfolio, showcase your abilities, and make connections with potential employers.
Many companies offer internships for entry level software engineers, either during the summer or throughout the year. To apply for an internship, you will need a resume, a cover letter, and possibly a portfolio or a GitHub profile.
2. Build your portfolio
Another way to demonstrate your skills and potential as a software engineer is to build your own portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of projects that you have created or contributed to using various technologies and tools. A portfolio can help you showcase your creativity, problem-solving abilities, and coding proficiency.
You can create your own projects based on your interests and passions, or follow online tutorials and courses that guide you through the process of building different applications. You can also contribute to open source projects that are available on platforms such as GitHub or Bitbucket. You should document your projects well and explain what they do, how they work, and what challenges you faced.
3. Hone your skills
To get an entry level software engineering job, you need to have a solid foundation of computer science concepts and programming languages. You should be familiar with topics such as data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming, databases, web development, testing, debugging, and more. You should also be proficient in at least one programming language that is relevant to your desired domain or industry.
You can master your skills by taking online courses or bootcamps that teach you the fundamentals of software engineering. You can also practice your skills by solving coding challenges on websites such as LeetCode or HackerRank. You should also keep yourself updated with the latest trends and technologies in the software engineering field by reading blogs, books, podcasts, or videos. You should also seek feedback and advice from more experienced software engineers who can help you improve your skills and knowledge.
4. Networking is the key
Networking is another important aspect of finding entry level software engineering jobs. Networking can help you expand your circle of contacts, learn from others’ experiences, discover new opportunities, and get referrals or recommendations. Networking can also help you build your reputation and credibility as a software engineer.
You can network with other software engineers by attending events such as meetups, hackathons, conferences, or workshops. You can also join online communities and forums such as Stack Overflow, Reddit, or Twitter.
Check out the Calyptus Community of experienced developers which has senior builders who would be happy to help support, give advice and potentially offer you valuable mentorship.
5. Prepare for interviews
The final step to getting an entry level software engineering job is to ace the interview process. The interview process can vary depending on the company and the role, but it usually consists of several rounds of technical and behavioural questions. The technical questions are designed to test your coding skills, logic, and knowledge of computer science concepts. The behavioural questions are designed to assess your personality, communication skills, motivation, and fit for the company culture.
To prepare for the interview process, you should research the company and the role that you are applying for. You should also review your resume and portfolio and be ready to explain your projects and skills in detail.
Getting an entry level software engineering job is not easy, but it is not impossible either. With the right attitude, skills, and strategies, you can achieve your goal of becoming a software engineer. Remember to complete an internship, build your portfolio, master your skills, network with others, and prepare for interviews. And most importantly, don’t give up on your dream. Good luck!
