Similarities and differences of software developers vs. software engineers
Software developers and software engineers: What’s the difference?
On the surface, each plays a hand in building the tech we rely on—apps, systems, and tools that power our daily lives. But they don’t always do the same job.
Developers tend to focus on writing and improving software. Engineers take a broader approach, often designing entire systems and making sure everything fits together. Their skills overlap, but their scope of work can vary considerably.
If you’re pursuing a career in tech, it helps to know how these roles align with your strengths and goals.
Key takeaways
- Software engineers and software developers both work with code. But engineers focus more on system-level design, while developers build specific applications and features.
- Education paths often overlap, but developers often enter the field through nontraditional routes like bootcamps or self-teaching. Engineers, though, are more likely to hold formal degrees in computer science or engineering.
- Common software engineering roles include systems engineer, platform engineer, and data engineer. Developers often specialize in front-end, back-end, or mobile development.
- Salaries are competitive across the board, with many roles averaging six figures. Earning potential often depends more on skill and experience than job title.
- Developer and engineer career paths offer strong growth opportunities, and many professionals move between roles as they gain experience and specialize.
What is a software engineer?
A software engineer applies engineering principles to every stage of software creation. They do more than just write code—they solve problems at scale and design systems that are reliable, efficient, and built to last. Think of them as architects of the digital world.
Most types of engineers require degrees in computer science, engineering, or related fields. That’s why people often compare software engineers and programmers, but they’re not the same. While their education may seem similar, engineers are trained to think systematically and work on large, often complex projects like cloud infrastructure, security frameworks, or enterprise-level applications. They build with both the code and the bigger picture in mind.
What is a software developer?
Software developers are the hands-on creators who turn ideas into working software. They write, test, and maintain code for everything from mobile apps to websites to embedded systems. While engineers might map out the full system, developers focus on building the parts that make it run.
Looking at software engineers vs. developers in terms of education, they often start in the same place—computer science degrees, engineering programs, or tech-focused bootcamps. But it’s not one-size-fits-all. Many developers come from nontraditional backgrounds and break into tech with self-taught skills, certifications, or coding bootcamps. The path is more flexible, focusing heavily on practical experience and project work.
Software engineers vs. software developers: Key differences
While they can overlap, there are clear differences between software engineering and software development roles. Here’s how they stack up:
| Category | Software engineer | Software developer |
| Scope of work | Focuses on the big picture—designing and managing entire systems | Focuses on building specific software programs or features |
| Approach | Applies engineering principles to solve complex problems at scale | Writes, tests, and updates code to create working software |
| Education | Typically holds a degree in computer science, engineering, or similar field | May have a degree, bootcamp experience, or be self-taught |
| Work style | Often collaborates across teams to align infrastructure and systems | Usually works closely with product teams to deliver specific features |
| Tools and languages | Similar tool set, including programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and cloud platforms | Similar tool set but often focuses more on frameworks and app development |
| Career path flexibility | More likely to transition into system architecture or infrastructure roles | More likely to specialize in front-end, back-end, or full-stack roles |
So, do they use the same skills? Sometimes. Do they solve the same problems? Not always. The core difference is scale and structure—engineers build the system, and developers make the software run within it.
Salary and career path options
There’s no shortage of opportunities in either path—both software engineers and developers can build fulfilling, high-paying careers in tech. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software development jobs are projected to grow by 17% through 2033—well above the average for all occupations.
Here’s a look at some of the most common roles in each track:
Software engineer roles
Software developer roles
- Front-end developer
- Back-end developer
- Mobile app developer
- Full-stack developer (~$88,000/year)
Whichever path you choose, the tech world has plenty of room to grow. Developers can evolve into engineers. Engineers can become architects, managers, or founders. Your title might change—but the foundation starts with code and curiosity.
How Intuit supports careers in tech
Whether you’re drawn to engineering complex systems or building software users love, Intuit is a place where your tech career can thrive. We don’t just hire developers and engineers—we invest in them, including career development programs, innovation events, and a culture that values curiosity and innovation. You don’t have to know everything—you just have to be ready to build.
Explore software engineering jobs at Intuit and see where your next step could take you.