With so many people depending on technology to get their jobs done, Software Developers are one of the fastest growing and most in-demand jobs in Minnesota right now. With a broad knowledge of computers and electronics, Software Developers work to create or modify general computer applications to help people work more efficiently at their jobs. This can include analyzing data and user needs, collaborating with others to understand and guide design specifications, and creating new applications.
These jobs are in high demand across the state, especially in the Twin Cities metro area. Most job seekers who want to get started in this career will need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or computer programming, and may also benefit from industry certifications. About 85% of people working in this career have a bachelor’s degree or higher, including 35% with an advanced degree. There are a wide variety of programs available in Minnesota.
Software developers need skills in programming, systems analysis and evaluation, and operations analysis – they need to be able to figure out what a product or service needs to be able to do. They should also be problem solvers with strong critical thinking and decision making skills. Software developers typically work in an office environment and spend most of their time working on a computer, but also need to be able to work closely with other people and be open to different ideas and perspectives.
Similar careers include Computer Systems Analysts, Database Administrators, and Information Security Analysts. Highly effective Software Developers can also be promoted to Computer and Information Systems Managers, which are among the highest paid occupations in the state.
With high educational and skill requirements, these jobs also offer relatively high wages. Half of all Application Software Developer jobs in Minnesota pay between $36.29 and $58.00 per hour, with an average hourly wage of $47.33 per hour (or $98,446 per year). During the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for Software Developers remains high across the state. There were more than 750 job vacancies for Software Developers in the fourth quarter of 2019, and it ranked tenth on the major job banks in Minnesota through the month of April.
To learn more about becoming a Software Developer go to your account dashboard on CareerForceMN.com, select the My Goals and Experience Tab and then select Software Developer as a career goal. If you don’t have an account on CareerForceMN.com, sign up for your free account today!
If you are interested in more information about opportunities in software development, check out Jobs in Demand here on the CareerForceMN.com website for wage ranges, educational and training requirements, current open positions in Minnesota and more.
Need help developing your job search strategy, updating your resume or preparing for interviews? Contact staff at a CareerForce location near you!
