What Do Software Engineers Actually Do? (It’s Not What You Think)

Summary

In this video, the speaker offers an insightful look into the life and responsibilities of a software engineer. From entry-level tasks to leadership roles, viewers gain a comprehensive understanding of what software engineers do, including coding, maintaining servers, and working in teams. The speaker also discusses the differences between working in startups vs. MNCs, the importance of DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms) for job preparation, and the role of projects in landing high-paying jobs. Additionally, the video covers the perks of working in tech companies, such as networking opportunities, team outings, and travel. Ultimately, the video provides valuable career advice for aspiring software engineers.

Takeaways

• 😀 As a software engineer, creativity and analytical thinking are crucial for solving complex problems and making decisions.
• 😀 Working in a startup means you’ll wear many hats, while in a large MNC, roles are more specialized and focused.
• 😀 Mastering version control tools like Git is essential for every software engineer, regardless of the company size.
• 😀 High-paying software engineering roles often require strong skills in Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) and System Design.
• 😀 Building meaningful, challenging projects is more impactful than simple coding exercises when applying for jobs.
• 😀 The work environment at startups is more dynamic, with less structure, compared to large MNCs that offer more defined roles and processes.
• 😀 A good GPA can help make a positive impression, but technical skills and project experience are crucial for landing high-paying offers.
• 😀 The work culture in software engineering offers opportunities for team outings, conferences, and perks like travel and flexible hours.
• 😀 The journey from entry-level to senior software engineer involves continuous learning, adapting, and problem-solving.
• 😀 Balance between work and personal life is common, with occasional late hours and weekend work, especially during critical deployments.

Q & A

What does a software engineer do, according to the speaker?

A software engineer works mainly on tasks that require creativity. They are involved in maintaining servers, updating codebases, making changes to websites, and ensuring that products meet real-world requirements. Software engineers work in teams focused on specific products, and their tasks vary based on their role, ranging from building websites and apps to maintaining servers or extracting insights from data.

How do responsibilities differ for entry-level, senior, and lead software engineers?

Entry-level software engineers generally handle simpler tasks with minimal risk, ensuring that mistakes can be easily checked. Senior software engineers take on more responsibility, managing larger tasks and making more impactful decisions. Lead software engineers combine technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, guiding teams and making high-level product decisions.

What role does a Product Manager play in a tech company?

A Product Manager oversees the entire product, ensuring that the right decisions are made regarding its development. They manage the priorities and responsibilities of the team, ensuring that the product aligns with customer needs and business goals.

Why is it important for software engineers to learn Git?

Git is an essential tool for software engineers as it enables collaboration and version control. Most companies use Git, or a variant of it, to manage codebases, and knowing it ensures that engineers can work effectively within teams, keeping track of changes and updates.

What is the role of Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) in software engineering?

While DSA might not be directly used in day-to-day tasks, mastering it is crucial for developing efficient problem-solving skills. It improves logical thinking, code efficiency, and prepares engineers for technical interviews, especially for large companies where DSA skills are heavily tested.

How can one secure a high-paying software engineering job?

To secure a high-paying job, focus on mastering Data Structures and Algorithms, as well as System Design. A strong academic record, demonstrated through a good CGPA, is also important. Additionally, building impactful projects and showcasing them in interviews can significantly boost chances of landing a high-paying role.

Does CGPA matter when applying for software engineering roles?

Yes, CGPA does matter to a certain extent. A good CGPA demonstrates academic competence and can influence recruiters' initial impressions. While skills are crucial, a solid CGPA can give candidates an edge, especially in large companies that have strict recruitment criteria.

What are the key differences between working in a startup vs a large MNC?

In startups, roles tend to be less structured, with employees taking on multiple responsibilities due to limited resources. The work environment is usually more dynamic, but with higher pressure. In contrast, large MNCs provide a more organized structure, a clearer career path, and relatively less pressure. The stability in MNCs is often higher, making them a safer long-term option.

What are some of the benefits of working in a large MNC?

Working in a large MNC offers several benefits, including job stability, structured career growth, and higher chances of traveling for business. Employees often enjoy perks such as team lunches, free food, and company-sponsored trips, all of which contribute to networking opportunities and professional growth.

Why might a software engineer be required to work on weekends or stay late?

While most software engineers work standard hours, occasionally, they may be required to stay late or work on weekends due to tight deadlines, product deployments, or team dependencies. However, such instances are generally rare and should be seen as part of the overall collaborative effort within the company.