Software Developers
O*NET 15-1252.00 · SOC 15-1252
Software Developer is a strong career choice. Median pay is $136k a year with +10.2% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 95,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Write and debug code across the software stack
- →Review pull requests and provide technical feedback
- →Design system architecture and technical solutions
- →Collaborate with product and design teams on features
- →Deploy, monitor, and maintain production applications
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Software Developer roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Software Developer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Software Developer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Software Developer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Software Developers is projected to grow 10.2% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations. The BLS flags this as a Bright Outlook occupation.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·27% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Software Developer make?
The median Software Developer earns $136k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Software Developer jobs?
Our model puts Software Developer at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 27% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Software Developer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 10.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 95,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Software Developer?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Software Developer roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Software Developer?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Software Developer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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