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Also known as: developer, programmer, SWE, coder

Software Engineer

FoundationalRolesProduct

Definition

Software Engineer: A Software Engineer designs, builds, tests, and maintains software applications. The role spans multiple specializations—frontend, backend, full-stack, mobile, data, infrastructure—and levels from junior to principal. Software engineers translate product requirements into working code that solves user problems.

Example Usage

“We hired full-stack engineers early for flexibility. As we scaled, we added specialists in frontend, infrastructure, and data.”

Common Misconceptions

More engineers equals more output. Team dynamics, process, and technical debt affect output more than headcount.
Coding is the whole job. Communication, design, code review, and problem-solving are equally important.
Senior engineers just code faster. Seniors multiply team output through mentorship, architecture, and technical leadership.

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