Senior software development engineers typically develop and upgrade computer operating systems and application software. As experienced members of software development teams, they often perform a lead role in software development projects. Many senior software development engineers work for information technology (IT) companies, developing computer operating system software for computers and computer networks. Other senior software development engineers work for specific software publishers, creating applications for personal, business, and educational users. Across the field, the senior software development engineer's primary task is developing software that provides its users with consistent, high-quality performance.

Those hoping to become senior software development engineers need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or mathematics, as the position demands expertise in those disciplines. Many employers prefer individuals with master’s degrees for senior positions; for higher-level positions in particular, extensive experience in software development typically is required. Senior software development engineers need to have expert-level knowledge of different computer languages, computer logic, and skill in developing and expanding flow charts. Familiarity with software design methods - as well as writing, editing, and debugging computer programs - is a must. Programming language knowledge is also a essential, as is deep technical knowledge of computer operating systems. Employers also may require senior software development engineers have expertise in a specific computer operating system. Given the specificity of their field, they also must have expertise in software development tools and the ability to function within the time-sensitive constraints of the development cycle. (Copyright 2018 PayScale.com)

Senior Software Development Engineer (SDE) Tasks

• Work with designers and content producers.
• Write, modify, and debug software for server applications.
• Write code to create multi-threaded, networked server applications.
• Use source debuggers, program dumps, and performance monitoring tools.
• Test and document software for server applications.