Software developers are the minds behind the digital tools, platforms, and systems we rely on every day—from mobile apps to enterprise software and cloud services. But what exactly does a software developer do, how do you become one, and what does the career path look like? Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is a Software Developer?
A software developer is a professional who designs, builds, tests, and maintains software applications and systems. These can range from consumer-facing apps and websites to complex backend infrastructure or industry-specific systems used in healthcare, finance, or manufacturing.
Developers work with programming languages like Python, JavaScript, C#, or Java to write code that solves problems, automates tasks, or creates new digital experiences. They often work in teams alongside other developers, designers, product managers, and quality assurance specialists.
How to Become a Software Developer
There’s no single path to becoming a software developer, but most professionals follow one of these three routes:
- Formal Education – Earning a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
- Coding Bootcamps – Intensive, short-term training programmes that teach programming fundamentals and practical skills.
- Self-Taught – Many successful developers learn through online courses, tutorials, and hands-on projects.
Regardless of the path, building a strong portfolio and gaining real-world experience—through internships, open-source contributions, or freelance work—is key to getting hired.
What It Takes to Be a Software Developer
Becoming a developer requires more than just technical know-how. Some of the most important qualities include:
- Problem-Solving Skills – Writing code is about solving problems creatively and efficiently.
- Attention to Detail – Small mistakes can lead to major bugs or system failures.
- Curiosity and Continuous Learning – Technologies evolve rapidly, so developers must keep up with new tools and trends.
- Teamwork and Communication – Developers often collaborate across functions, so clear communication is essential.
What You’ll Do
The day-to-day duties of a software developer vary depending on the role and industry but typically include:
- Writing, testing, and debugging code
- Participating in design and planning meetings
- Reviewing code written by teammates
- Collaborating with designers, analysts, and stakeholders
- Maintaining and updating existing software
- Documenting systems and processes
In agile environments, developers also attend daily standups, sprint planning sessions, and retrospectives.
What Tools Do Software Developers Use?
Software developers rely on a wide range of tools to write code, collaborate, and manage projects effectively. Common categories include:
- Code Editors & IDEs: Visual Studio Code, IntelliJ IDEA, PyCharm, Eclipse
- Version Control Systems: Git with platforms like GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket
- Command Line Tools: Bash, PowerShell, Zsh
- Testing & Debugging: Postman, JUnit, Jest, Cypress
- Project Management: Jira, Trello, Asana
- Communication: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom
- Cloud & DevOps: AWS, Azure, Docker, Kubernetes, GitHub Actions
- Databases & APIs: PostgreSQL, MongoDB, REST/GraphQL APIs
Mastering these tools is essential to working efficiently and collaboratively in modern software teams.
Career Path and Progression
A software developer’s career can progress in several directions, depending on interests and strengths:
- Junior Developer – Entry-level, focused on learning and supporting projects
- Mid-Level Developer – Leads small features or modules independently
- Senior Developer – Oversees system architecture and mentors junior teammates
- Technical Lead / Engineering Manager – Balances coding with leadership responsibilities
- Specialised Roles – Such as DevOps, machine learning, mobile, or data engineering
Developers may also branch into related paths like product management, consultancy, or founding their own startups.
Working Hours and Lifestyle
Most software developers work full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9 to 5. However, flexibility is common:
- Remote Work – Many roles allow working from anywhere
- Flexible Schedules – Developers may adjust hours based on team and project needs
- Freelancing – Allows full control over schedule and workload
- Workload Peaks – Product launches or bug emergencies may require extra hours
Work-life balance is increasingly prioritised, particularly in people-first organisations.
Working at BGTS as a Software Developer
At BGTS, software developers thrive in a supportive, international environment that values flexibility, collaboration, and real impact. With a people-first approach and a global presence—including offices in the Netherlands, Germany and the UK—BGTS blends engineering excellence with strategic vision to solve real-world problems at scale.
At BGTS, you’ll enjoy a flexible, remote-friendly culture that values balance, supports your growth, embraces diversity, and listens to your ideas.
With over 1,800 professionals and 25+ years of experience, BGTS empowers developers to grow, learn, and contribute to meaningful projects across digital transformation, technology consulting, and enterprise service delivery. If you’re looking to build software that matters—in an environment that respects your time, input, and ambition—BGTS is the place to be.