Systems Engineers and Software Engineers are both integral in the development of computer-based systems. Good systems engineering is a key factor in enabling good software engineering, but the two professions have different roles and responsibilities.
Software Engineers deal with the design, development, testing and maintenance of software applications and programs. Their work involves creating reliable and efficient software solutions that meet specific requirements and solve real-world problems across many different industries. Software Engineers design and develop programs such as computer games, business applications and operating systems.
Systems Engineers design and manage complex systems, integrating hardware, software and other components. They focus on the entire lifecycle of systems, from conception through to development, deployment, operation and eventual disposal. A Systems Engineer can be involved in a wide range of industries, from aerospace to defence to telecommunications.
Learning areas/subjects
You may be interested in this occupation group if you enjoyed these learning areas at school:
- Computing
- Maths
Skills
- Business
- Teamwork
- Creative
- Problem-solving
- Practical
Software and Applications Programmers
Software and Applications Programmers design, develop, test, maintain and document program code in accordance with user requirements, and system and technical specifications.
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Multimedia Specialists and Web Developers
Multimedia Specialists and Web Developers create computer animation, audio, video and graphic image files for multimedia presentations, games, motion pictures, CD-ROMs, information kiosks and the web. They also plan, produce and maintain websites and web applications using web programming, scripting, authoring, content management and file transfer software.
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Database and Systems Administrators, and ICT Security Specialists
Database and Systems Administrators, and ICT Security Specialists plan, develop, maintain, manage and administer organisations' database management systems, operating systems and security policies and procedures to ensure optimal database and system integrity, security, backup, reliability and performance.
FIND OUT MORELatest stories from women in STEM
"The path is not necessarily a straight one, and a diverse set of experiences is your best tool for excellent problem-solving in the future."
Systems Engineer
"Looking back, I can now see that a lot of my choices were, in many ways, unusual. For example, I was the first in my family to be interested in studying computer science. I was also the first to want to pursue my bachelors abroad. In high school, I decided to take the ‘path less travelled’."
Associate Professor in Software Engineering
"Commit to learning and reflecting on what energises and drains you. Developing a strong sense of self, and finding the intersection of the things you’re good at, the things you enjoy doing, and the things the world needs and will pay you for will keep your skillset adaptable and future ready."
Software Developer
Ivana Popovac, Systems Engineer
Ivana Popovac is the manager of systems engineering at Cochlear, the leading global company working in implantable hearing solutions. Hear about Ivana's work as the lead Systems Engineer on the Nucleus 7 System, a sound processor that allows cochlear users to connect to devices wirelessly and have more control of what they are hearing.
Video source: STELR via MyFuture