About this career
Computer software engineers use computer programming, engineering principles, and mathematical analysis to design, develop, test, and evaluate software and systems, focusing more on software subjects and less on traditional engineering topics compared to Electronics Engineering qualifications.
A computer software engineer designs and develops various types of software, including operating systems, network distribution systems, and compilers, using programming languages like Assembler, C++, or Java. They focus on developing algorithms, analysing and solving programming problems, and solving technical issues related to hardware components such as microprocessors, embedded controllers, and personal computers.
Tasks performed by computer software engineers include:
- Designing and developing general computer applications software or specialised utility programs.
- Creating both packaged systems and systems software, as well as customising applications.
- Constructing and maintaining company computer systems, including setting up Intranets or telecommunications networks.
- Planning for future growth and scalability of computer systems within organisations.
- Managing and delivering projects in collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineering, marketing, manufacturing, and design.
The future of work:
The industry for computer software engineers is expected to thrive in the future. As technology continues to advance, the demand for software development will grow across different sectors, including AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Engineers will be needed to create new applications, improve existing systems, and develop solutions for emerging challenges. Essential skills in programming, problem-solving, and knowledge of new technologies will remain in high demand.
Degree: BEng Computer Engineering - UP, NWU, or Electronic Engineering - most universities, e.g. NWU, UP, UJ, US, UKZN.
A person who has obtained a recognised BSc (Eng) or BEng degree is eligible for registration as Engineer in Training. After gaining at least 3 years of appropriate practical experience, a computer engineer may register as a Professional Engineer under the auspices of the Engineering Council of South Africa.
For Computer Scientists, Bachelor of Information Technology degrees are offered at some universities - RU, UCT, UWC, NMMU, UFS, Wits, US, UP, UNISA, UKZN, UJ. UZ, UFH, NWU, Monash.
The more theoretical majors lead to specialised work in computer science and programming.
- companies that supply and service computers
- government departments
- provincial administrations
- computer bureaus
- such companies as: Spoornet, Telkom, Denel
- universities and universities of technology
- any company or business using computer systems and networks
- self-employment, a registered engineer with the necessary experience and initiative, as consultant
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
Computer Society of SA
ICT House
546 16th Road
Constantia Park [Unit No.3]
Midrand
Tel: (011) 315-1319
www.cssa.org.za
Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
1st Floor, Waterview Corner Building
2 Ernest Oppenheimer Avenue
Bruma Lake Office Park, Bruma
Johannesburg, 2198
Tel: (011) 607-9500
www.ecsa.co.za
Society for Professional Engineers
P O Box 78433
Sandton, 2146
Tel: 076 435 0892
The Director
Computer Users’ Council of South Africa
P O Box 1688
Halfway House, 1685
Tel: (011) 805-3151/2
Engineering News Magazine
www.engineeringnews.co.za
Project Management South Africa (PMSA)
PO Box 4328
Rivonia
Sandton, 2128
Tel: (011) 257-8003
https://www.projectmanagement.org.za/
- develop your mathematical, communication and computer skills
- arrange to take an aptitude test, to determine whether you have the necessary ability for this type of work
- speak to people in this field of work
- try to obtain vacation work in this field
