21231

Software engineers and designers

TEER 1 — Usually require a university degree

Express Entry skill level: Yes
Regulated in Québec: No
In demand in Manitoba: Yes

Classification

Natural & applied sciences

2 › 21 › 212 › 2123

Definition

Software engineers and designers research, design, evaluate, integrate and maintain software applications, technical environments, operating systems, embedded software, information warehouses and telecommunications software. They are employed in information technology consulting firms, information technology research and development firms, and information technology units throughout the private and public sectors, or they may be self-employed.

Main duties

This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Collect and document users' requirements and develop logical and physical specifications
Research, evaluate and synthesize technical information to design, develop and test computer-based systems including mobile applications
Develop data, process and network models to optimize architecture and to evaluate the performance and reliability of designs
Plan, design and coordinate the development, installation, integration and operation of computer-based systems including mobile applications
Assess, test, troubleshoot, document, upgrade and develop maintenance procedures for operating systems, communications environments and applications software
May lead and coordinate teams of information systems professionals in the development of software and integrated information systems, process control software and other embedded software control systems.

Example job titles

•application architect
•computer software engineer
•embedded software designer
•embedded software engineer
•software architect
•software design engineer
•software design verification engineer
•software designer

Overview

Under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 system, Software engineers and designers are classified under NOC code 21231. This is a TEER 1 occupation, which typically requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer systems engineering, software engineering, or a related discipline. Individuals in this role research, design, evaluate, integrate, and maintain software applications, technical environments, operating systems, embedded software, and information warehouses.

This occupation is highly sought after in Canada and is eligible for major federal immigration pathways like the Express Entry system (including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Canadian Experience Class) as well as various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). It is also frequently targeted in category-based Express Entry selection draws for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) professions, offering streamlined pathways to Canadian permanent residency.

Key duties under NOC 21231 include writing, modifying, and testing software code, as well as leading and co-ordinating teams of software professionals. Licensing by a provincial or territorial association of professional engineers is required to practice as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) and to use the "Engineer" title. Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional immigration advice.

Educational overview summarizing this occupation. Always confirm against the official NOC profile and IRCC before relying on it.

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Occupation data: Statistics Canada / ESDC — National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021.