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Computer Software Engineers, Applications

An occupation in Engineering and Technologies
In Demand in the High Growth industry: Information Technology

Jobs in New York
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Job Description

Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. May analyze and design databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.


Interests

Investigative - Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.


Tasks

1. Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design system and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.

2. Modify existing software to correct errors, allow it to adapt to new hardware, or to improve its performance.

3. Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.

4. Consult with customers about software system design and maintenance.

5. Coordinate software system installation and monitor equipment functioning to ensure specifications are met.

6. Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcome and consequences of design.

7. Develop and direct software system testing and validation procedures, programming, and documentation.

8. Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan computer specifications and layouts, and peripheral equipment modifications.

9. Supervise the work of programmers, technologists and technicians and other engineering and scientific personnel.

10. Obtain and evaluate information on factors such as reporting formats required, costs, and security needs to determine hardware configuration.

11. Determine system performance standards.


Skills

Programming - Writing computer programs for various purposes.

Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Troubleshooting - Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Technology Design - Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.

Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.


Knowledge

Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Telecommunications - Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.


Education

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Education: Most of these occupations require a four - year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.


School Programs

The college search results are undergraduate programs associated with Computer Software Engineers, Applications. Further education may also be required to pursue this career.

The training search results include both short and long-term programs associated with Computer Software Engineers, Applications, and may be more appropriate for adult and non-traditional students. Further training may also be required to pursue this career.



Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. - A program that focuses on the symbolic inference, representation, and simulation by computers and software of human learning and reasoning processes and capabilities, and the modeling of human motor control and motions by computer-driven machinery. Includes instruction in computing theory, cybernetics, human factors, natural language processing, robot design, and applicable aspects of engineering, technology, and specific end-use applications.


Information Technology. - A program that focuses on the design of technological information systems, including computing systems, as solutions to business and research data and communications support needs. Includes instruction in the principles of computer hardware and software components, algorithms, databases, telecommunications, user tactics, application testing, and human interface design.


Computer Science. - A general program that focuses on computers, computing problems and solutions, and the design of computer systems and user interfaces from a scientific perspective. Includes instruction in the principles of computational science, and computing theory; computer hardware design; computer development and programming; and applications to a variety of end-use situations.


Computer Engineering, General. - A program that generally prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of computer hardware and software systems and related equipment and facilities; and the analysis of specific problems of computer applications to various tasks.


Computer Software Engineering. - A program that prepares individuals to apply scientific and mathematical principles to the design, analysis, verification, validation, implementation, and maintenance of computer software systems using a variety of computer languages. Includes instruction in discrete mathematics, probability and statistics, computer science, managerial science, and applications to complex computer systems.


Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. - Any instructional program in computer engineering technologies not listed above.


Bioinformatics. - A program that focuses on the application of computer-based technologies and services to biological, biomedical, and biotechnology research. Includes instruction in algorithms, network architecture, principles of software design, human interface design, usability studies, search strategies, database management and data mining, digital image processing, computer graphics and animation, CAD, computer programming, and applications to experimental design and analysis and to specific quantitative, modeling, and analytical studies in the various biological specializations.


Medical Informatics. - A program that focuses on the application of computer science and software engineering to medical research and clinical information technology support, and the development of advanced imaging, database, and decision systems. Includes instruction in computer science, health information systems architecture, medical knowledge structures, medical language and image processing, quantitative medical decision modeling, imaging techniques, electronic medical records, medical research systems, clinical decision support, and informatics aspects of specific research and practice problems.


Medical Illustration and Informatics, Other. - Any instructional program in medical illustration and informatics not listed above.


Wages

In NY the average wage for this occupation was:

$62,720 for entry level workers, and $107,200 for experienced workers.


Job Outlook

Based on the total number of annual openings and its growth rate, the employment prospects for this occupation are described as Very Favorable.

During 2006, there were approximately 32,250 Computer Software Engineers, Applications employed in NY.

We estimate that in 2016 there will be 44,490  employed in NY. This represents an increase of 1,220 job(s) each year, and a total of 470 job openings each year.


Additional Resources

Summer Computer Camp at St. Johns University - Queens Campus,NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project-based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas:User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

iD Tech Camps: Columbia University Computer Camps,NY - iD Tech Camps offers summer computer camps for kids and teens at over 30 universities. The summer computer camp courses are for beginner to advanced levels, and vary from creating video games and producing digital movies to designing web pages and learning programming and robotics.

Kids on Campus - Choose Your Workshop: make your very own bumper car flash game, create your own Web site, explore four-dimensional space, join the graphics design think tank and build your own computer game engine!

iD Tech Camps: Vassar College Computer Camps,NY - iD Tech Camps offers summer computer camps for kids and teens. The courses are for beginner to advanced levels, and vary from creating video games and producing digital movies to designing web pages and learning programming and robotics.

Summer Computer Camp at The New School Manhattan, New York - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

Computer software engineers - Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.

Stony Brook University Camp Academies - Stony Brook University Camp Academies are designed to satisfy campers with an interest in art, chess, computers, medical sciences, and the performing arts. The campers receive a full day of instructional activities relating to his or her chosen topic. Topics include: Athletic/Medical Academy, Computer Academy, Dig Deeper into Science and Science Academy.

GetTech Teacher Lesson Guide - The role of technology has become more important in a teacher's world. Use of the teaching modules in this GetTech Teacher Lesson Guide may enhance your curricula with ways to explore careers with your students using the Gettech.org website.

Intel Education Initiative K12 - Education is critical to each citizen's ability to thrive in the knowledge economy. Today's students must develop key 21st century skills such as familiarity with information and communication technology (ICT), problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration so they are able to function in, and shape, the world ahead. Intel Education Initiative links to innovative ways to use technology and promote critical 21st century skills - in the classroom or in the community.

Fun Works - Have you ever wondered what career possibilities exist in fields that interest you? For example, do you enjoy art, music, or science? Would you like to find information about interesting jobs that involve them? Are you curious about what a day on the job might be like, how much money you would make, or what training you would need? This site helps young people like you explore ways to link interests to exciting future careers.

Purchase College: SummerTech - SummerTech Computer Camps offer a choice of seven week long and multiweek curricula. All courses are integrated into the full camp experience. Tech learning and fun featuring seven curriculums to choose from include Digital Film, Animation, Music Recording,Machinima Code,Flash and Web.

iD Tech Camps: Columbia University Computer Camp, NY - iD Tech Camps offers summer computer camps for kids and teens. The courses are for beginner to advanced levels, and vary from creating video games and producing digital movies to designing web pages and learning programming and robotics.

TechValleyCareers - The Center's mission is to support appropriate career development through the design and delivery of innovative resources and programs that prepare students for the 21st century workplace. is an online clearinghouse for information about high tech careers in the Greater Capital Region. Through this website, educators, students and parents are linked to education and career opportunities made possible by the high tech growth and expansion in Tech Valley.

Journey Inside: Engaging Technology to Explain Technology - The Journey Inside is a collection of 35 interactive, online lessons for students to complete. The curriculum is divided into six sections: Introduction to Computers, Circuits and Switches, Digital Information, Microprocessors, The Internet, and Technology and Society. Many of the lessons include interactive Flash activities, virtual field trips, and videos demonstrating the ideas discussed.

Summer at RPI: Computer Game Development Academy - Intended to teach high school students who will enter their senior year in the Fall the fundamentals of the video game creation and design process, artists and programmers will take separate classes that speak to their particular skill sets, and then interdisciplinary teams will be formed and then construct their game from start to finish.

Fulton Montgomery Community College's Youth Enrichment Camps - FMCC's Youth Enrichment Camps offer a wide range of fun,educational opportunities. Make a movie, design a computer game, draw Manga, explore ancient Egypt, experiment with matter, spatial information technology center, and more.

Tech Savvy,Educating Girls in the New Computer Age - How do we educate girls to become tech savvy women? This report explores how to make computers and other technology more accessible, appealing, and inviting to a variety of users and learners.

Suffolk County Community College Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) - The Science and Technology Entry Program develops the abilities and skills of students to prepare them for entry in careers in math, science, technology and the licensed professions. STEP serves underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students in selected school districts, grades 7 to 12.

GetTech - Math and Science are the cornerstones you need for an exciting and rewarding career in the technology-driven future. GetTech will show you careers where you can put those skills to work creating the future.

Alliance of Technology and Women (ATW) - Alliance of Technology and Women (ATW) supports women and men worldwide who share the common interests of empowering women in technology, increasing the number of women in executive roles and encouraging women and girls to enter technology fields.

Summer Computer Camp at Fordham University (Marymount Campus) - Tarrytown,NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project-based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas:User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

Purchase College: Summer Tech Day Camp - This computer day camp is designed for children ages 6 through 9. The course includes general computing (OS, Microsoft Apps) to get children up to speed as well as animation, web page making, and computer gaming.

Summer Computer Camp at Adelphi University - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

American Electronics Association (AeA) Advancing the Business of Technology - AeA is a nationwide non-profit trade association that represents all segments of the technology industry.

KidSmart - A Guide to Early Learning and Technology for Home - This new website for early learning and technology is presented in nine languages. It includes a guide for parents to encourage early learning at home. This site will help you understand what's possible when it comes to young children and computer time.

Kids N Technolgy at New York University - The ultimate technology camp for ages 8-18. Campers build their own computers and take them home! Students design, build, configure, upgrade, troubleshoot and repair personal computers, authoring their own summer experience. Morning and afternoon sessions are offered this year at New York University, in the heart of Greenwich Village.

Summer at RIT:Kids on Campus - Choose Your Workshop! Animation with a Twist, Interactive Music Madness, Web Magic, Flash Puzzle Quest, Draw, Shoot, Animate, and Ultimate Web Comics are just a few fun topics available!

DigiGirlz High Technology Camps - DigiGirlz High Tech Camp, sponsored by Microsoft, is a technology camp for girls.The goal is to educate and inspire girls by introducing them to the considerable opportunities and career choices available in the high-tech industry. Stony Brook, NY , one of several sites, is this years local llocation.

Westchester Community College Children and Teens 2007 - Westchester Community College Children and Teens 2007 programs include Ossining Summer Science Academy, Computer Arts for Teens, and Computers for Kids in Peekskill.

MCC College for Kids - Among other interests, the camp allows students to cultivate an interest in science and technology, explore possible career areas, and discover the excitement of hands on lab work designing Lego robots, a pinhole camera, a periscope, and an engineering project.

2006 Youth Enrichment Camps - FMCC's Youth Enrichment Camps offer a wide range of fun,educational opportunities. Make a movie, design a computer game, draw Manga, explore ancient Egypt, experiment with "matter", spatial information technology center, and more.

SummerTech at Manhattanville College,Purchase,NY - SummerTech Computer Camps offer a choice of seven week-long and multi-week curricula. All courses are integrated into the full camp experience. Tech learning and fun featuring seven curriculums to choose from: Digital Film, Animation, Music Recording,Machinima Code,Flash and Web.

Computer Systems Officers - Visit this link for information on this career in the military.

Summer Computer Camp at New York Institute of Technology - Manhattan NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

Columbia University Summer Program For High School Students, Junior - Senior Division - The Summer Program for High School Students in New York City is renowned for its academic rigor, instructional excellence, and the unique opportunity to experience college life in the Ivy League and life in New York City. Intensive summer study includes a variety of coursework in Engineering, Mathematics, and Science and Computers.

DigiPen Institute of Technology Project Fun - DigiPen Institute of Technology, the leader in video game development education, presents a summer workshop series designed to introduce participants of all experience levels to the fundamentals of game programming, 3D computer animation and robotics. These workshops are designed to give high school and middle school students an opportunity to explore the possibility of having a career either in game programming, 3D computer animation or computer engineering. Video Game Programming Level One is offered in New York City.

Marymount Science and Technology Camp - Led by professional science teachers and multimedia experts, the Science and Technology Camp is an innovative experience for any child interested in discovering the world of science through laboratory experiments, field trips, nature studies and technology. Highlights include bridge building, chemistry, biology and physics, robotics, video production, digital photography and more.

Alliance of Technology and Women (ATW): ATW Tech Valley Albany, NY Chapter - The ATW supports women and men worldwide who share the common interests of empowering women in technology, increasing the number of women in executive roles and encouraging women and girls to enter technology fields. The NY Tech Valley Chapter provides programs for women and girls that enrich, educate and inform.

KidSmart - A Guide to Early Learning and Technology for School - The computer is a relatively new arrival in many early childhood classrooms. This site will help you understand what's possible when it comes to young children and computer time. It includes introductions to important issues about teaching and learning with technology, practical discussions, concrete tips on evaluating software and useful aids for classroom management and real lesson plan ideas submitted by teachers.

Association for Women in Science (AWIS) - The Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is dedicated to achieving equity and full participation for women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. AWIS is a network, a resource, and a voice that operates on both national and local levels.

Girls Summer 2006: Science and Technology - Science and technology students get hands-on experience in a variety of cutting-edge topics and academic environments. The students get the opportunity to learn as much as possible about the world of science, computers, robotics, technology and other disciplines of the future.

iD Tech Camps: Vassar College Computer Camps,NY - iD Tech Camps offers summer computer camps for kids and teens at over 30 universities. The summer computer camp courses are for beginner to advanced levels, and vary from creating video games and producing digital movies to designing web pages and learning programming and robotics.

International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) - ISTE provides leadership and service to improve teaching, learning, and school leadership by advancing the effective use of technology in PK to 12 and teacher education.

Summer at RIT:Kids on Campus - Choose Your Workshop! Animation with a Twist, Interactive Music Madness, Web Magic, Flash Puzzle Quest, Draw, Shoot, Animate, and Ultimate Web Comics are just a few fun topics available!

Summer Computer Camp at St. Johns University, Queens Campus, NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

Cisco Academy at Schenectady High - Schenectady High is one of the first 10 Cisco networking academies in the country. To complement the Cisco academy offerings, the business department at Schenectady High also provides classes in Excel and PowerPoint so that students can be certified as Microsoft Office specialists. This program teaches Schenectady High School students to design, build and maintain computer networks.

Summer Computer Camp at Solomon Schechter School Westchester, NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

SUNY New Paltz Summer Camp: Mad Science Secret Agent Lab - Mad Science has sparked imaginative learning with their unique brand of engaging and educational live programs and activities. Secret Agent Lab - delve into the mysteries of forensic science! Discover different methods of secret writing and break coded messages in a quest for treasure. Explore the world of optics and make your own camera obscura and kaleidoscope. Use chemistry to identify mysterious substances, and mix your own chemical reactions.

Camp Ulster County Community College - Camp Ulster has athletic, artistic, and academic camps that provide new challenges and enriching experiences. A few of the camps are: Blowfish Robocraft Camp, NASA Academy of Future Space Explorers Camp, Web Design for Teens Camp, Astronomy Camp and More!

Computer Game Development Academy - Intended to teach high school students who will enter their senior year in the Fall the fundamentals of the video game creation and design process.

Internet Science and Technology Fair (ISTF) - ISTF is a web based science and technology competition. Teams of students from across the U.S. compete for certificates awarded by the National Medal of Technology Program at the U.S. Department of Commerce .Students are challenged to use information and communication tools as they work as a team to complete a four-month research project, master email to request technical information from scientists and engineers, search, analyze and synthesize electronic information sources from the Internet and present their final research findings in a website format.

National Computer Camp: Manhattan College, Riverdale, New York - National Computer Camp aims to provide campers with life long computer skills. As its primary focus, NCC provides a solid foundation in programming, focusing on languages and applications, hardware, video game and web page design.

Tech Valley Summer Camp - Tech Valley Summer Camp is an exciting opportunity in which girls and boys from local schools spend five days engaged in FUN, and exciting activities alongside professionals in the fields of Nanotechnology, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials, Alternative Energies, Information Technologies, and Multidisciplinary Engineering. Each day of the camp is hosted by a different Tech Valley business, organization, or university.

Mildred Elley: Video Game Design Camp - If you're entering grade six through eleven, you can explore the world of video game production at a summer camp unlike any other. Learn how to make your video game ideas come to life. Design the sights, sounds and activities of your game. Learn the techniques used to create the kind of 3D world that makes a video game worth playing. Summer Programs July 9-August 22, 2007 If you?re entering grade six through eleven, you can explore the world of video game production at a summer camp unlike any other.

Summer Computer Camp at Adelphi University - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project-based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas:User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!

Summer Day Camp:Ages: 6 to 9 - This computer day camp is designed for children ages 6 through 9. The course includes general computing (OS, Microsoft Apps) to get children up to speed as well as animation, web page making, and computer gaming.

Summer Computer Camp at Fordham University (Marymount Campus) - Tarrytown,NY - When it comes to learning cool new technologies at your own pace, Cybercamps gives you a lot of options. All of the courses are project based, which means you'll learn by making cool things. The courses are grouped into three main subject areas, User (Graphics),Coder (Programming), and Gamer (Game Design)!


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