Starting Your Software Engineering Journey: A Guide to Salaries and Career Growth

Introduction

If you’re considering a career change, and have been contemplating the tech industry, then this is for you! Tech is a booming and lucrative industry, and there are more and more individuals making the jump into areas such as Data Analytics and Software Development. Software engineering being one of the most sought out careers in the industry, is expected to grow by 22% from 2020 to 2030, creating greater curiosity towards market potential, and salary considerations.

In light of the launch of AMIT’s Software Engineering bootcamp, we wanted to provide you with a holistic view of what to expect as an entry-level software engineer. We want people to understand how much a fresher could begin earning once completing their bootcamp. It is also important to consider the different factors that influence one’s salary potential starting off in the field. These include a candidate’s portfolio, role, industry, location, company size, market demand, educational background, and negotiation skills.

Where do you fall on the spectrum?

As a junior-level software engineer, you may be expected to demonstrate familiarity with algorithms, database architecture, and data structures, familiarity with software engineering methodologies such as Agile and DevOps. You may also be expected to have familiarity with object-oriented programming principles.

If you are starting your tech career in a city like San Francisco, your entry-level salary may look a bit different from someone employed in Reno, Nevada. Also, if you are a part of a large tech firm, you may secure a higher salary than if you were launching your career in a start-up. In addition, how reputable your program is, and your determination to advocate for yourself in job interviews will play a huge role in how much you can potentially earn as an entry-level software engineer.

Now, let’s talk numbers!

According to Glassdoor, junior-level software engineers in the United States can expect base pay of $95,071 as of February 2024. Assuming that you are a recent coding graduate, or an early career professional with around 1-3 years of experience, you have the potential to earn an attractive salary as an engineer wherever you are located in the U.S.

As an entry-level software engineer, you can also expect additional pay insights depending on your company, and experience. Some companies provide their employees with bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing opportunities. As you grow in your career, you can expect a salary within the $300k-$500k margins.

Conclusion

Ultimately, aspiring software engineers should consistently research industry standards, and use resources such as salary comparisons through online platforms. Remember that industry professionals can also provide valuable insight into typical compensation packages, and help you understand growth opportunities, and career satisfaction.

The typical salary of an entry-level software engineer is an important aspect of the job. If you plan to make the switch into tech this year, it is important to continue assessing the current market and industry trends as it correlates greatly to evolving salary considerations.