Seven In-Demand Skills and Career Options for Systems & Software Engineers
A guide to the skills and job descriptions of the most in-demand systems and software engineering jobs right now.
Systems and software engineers are the competitive advantage of the century and nearly every industry needs them.
Today, businesses in every industry need systems and software engineers to help them stay relevant, competitive, and innovative. Between the rapid pace of technological advancements and updates to existing technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, software and the hardware systems that support it are the competitive advantage of the century.
Given the demand for these professionals, the opportunities to customize a dream career in this field are wide open. According to recent data from Lightcast, the need for systems and software engineers is expected to grow an additional 17 percent over the next ten years. So, it’s no surprise that attracting and retaining systems and software engineers is a top concern for CEOs.
Systems Engineers vs Software Engineers: How They’re Alike and Different
Both systems and software engineers work with computers and other electronic devices; however, they differ in their focus. Software engineers develop the computer programs and applications that run on a computer or electronic device, while a systems engineer helps to define how a device or computer works and ensures that the various parts of the system (e.g., hardware, software, and network components) work together effectively and efficiently.
Below, we've broken down some of the top in-demand skills in systems and software engineering, along with the top in-demand positions, according to research conducted by Actalent’s market analysts using data from Lightcast.
In-Demand Skills and Expertise in Systems & Software Engineering
Employers in nearly every industry are eager for systems and software professionals with expertise in the software development life cycle for electronic systems and applications—requirements analysis, system, software and hardware design, software and hardware development, unit testing, system and software validation, and maintenance.
In-demand skills that appear consistently for positions in systems and software include:
- C/C++/Java/JavaScript/Python based Embedded Software Development
- FPGA Design
- Hardware Design & PCB Layout
- Model Based Development
- SCRUM/Agile Project Management
- Full Stack Application Development with Front-end, Middleware and Back-end Technologies
- Cyber Security
In-demand positions for candidates with these specific skills, along with Actalent-supported industries in which they are desired, include:
- Software Developer/Engineer
Software developers typically focus on one aspect of a computer system or application, while software engineers consider requirements for the entire system or application. Both aid in the development, and integration of complex software solutions fast-paced, agile environment. These skilled professionals often work in teams, interfacing with architects and systems engineers to develop technical specifications, and, as needed, support the execution of unit, system, and integration tests.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
- Embedded Engineer
Embedded engineers design and code the programs that run on microprocessors in nearly every system or product—refrigerators, pacemakers, smart phones, etc. In addition to designing code, embedded engineers understand the mechanics of the hardware and how the software and hardware will interact.
- Test Engineer
Test engineers conduct extensive tests on materials, processes, and mechanical or electrical systems to identify technical issues that could impact the quality and functionality once manufactured. Often, test engineers also serve as a liaison between manufacturing, design engineering, sales engineering and marketing teams as well.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
- Controls Engineer
Control engineers oversee plant operations to ensure equipment is properly installed, operated, and maintained. Control engineers collaborate with other departments and external partners to develop, implement, and maintain processes that increase the efficiency and productivity of the plant. Additionally, controls engineers are responsible for the implementation of maintenance plans to ensure adherence to quality and safety standards.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
- Automation Engineer
Automation engineers improve efficiency of computer-controlled systems and robotics. Using programming languages, control engineers revise existing technology or design new technology that can operate with little to no human interaction. Automation engineers closely monitor the performance of their changes or creations.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
- FPGA Engineer
FPGA Design Engineers build code that operate in configurable complex, high speed and performance hardware products or systems. These engineers develop and define requirements, design architecture, simulation, as well as conduct hardware tests and validation.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
- Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer designs and manages complex computer systems from start to finish and ensures the coordination and integration of various components against technical specifications and system requirements. In addition to technical capabilities, systems engineers excel at project management, problem-solving, and communicating with various stakeholders. Systems engineers often manage schedules, allocate and monitor resources accordingly, and adapt to changes in requirements or circumstances as needed.
Industries: Aerospace & Defense, Consumer & Industrial Products, Life Sciences, Transportation, Utilities & Construction
