Software engineers will usually fall into one of two categories, systems developers or application developers. 

As a systems developer (sometimes called a backend engineer), you’ll build things like computer systems and networks that front-end (user-facing) applications will need. You can do this by:

• Ensuring that different types of software programs communicate with each other on one platform

• Creating and enforcing IT standards within an infrastructure 

• Maintaining documentation of IT systems 

• Updating to new technologies as needed

• Collaborating with development teams, senior systems architects, and data science professionals 

Working as an application developer is more client-focused. You may work on either the front or back end of the system, designing software that the end user will interact with. Tasks might include:

• Developing applications for iOS, Android, Windows, or other operating systems

• Conducting an analysis of requirements and tweaking software as needed

• Releasing software updates

• Working with graphic designers, customer service staff, project managers, and other customer-facing departments