Infrastructure Engineer vs. Software Engineer: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
Both infrastructure engineers and software engineers are responsible for developing and maintaining computer systems. However, these two types of engineers have different focuses. Infrastructure engineers typically work on the hardware and physical components of a system, while software engineers work on the coding and software applications. In this article, we compare and contrast these two engineering roles, and we provide information on what you can expect from each career.
What is an Infrastructure Engineer?
Infrastructure Engineers are responsible for designing, building and maintaining the systems that keep an organization running. They work with hardware, software, networking and other technology to create and optimize systems for peak efficiency and performance. Infrastructure Engineers also develop and implement plans for disaster recovery and business continuity in case of system failures. They work closely with other departments, such as IT, to ensure that all systems are integrated and compatible. Infrastructure Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field.
What is a Software Engineer?
Software Engineers are responsible for developing, testing and maintaining software applications. They work with other team members to create high-quality and innovative software solutions. They also identify and debug software defects. Software Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They must be able to effectively communicate with other team members and have strong problem-solving skills.
Infrastructure Engineer vs. Software Engineer
Here are the main differences between an infrastructure engineer and a software engineer.
Job Duties
Both infrastructure and software engineers have a variety of job duties. The things they do depend on the type of project they’re working on and the stage in the development process. For example, an infrastructure engineer might plan out how to design a new network before beginning the installation process. They might also test the network after it’s complete to ensure it functions correctly. Another important part of their job is documenting their work so other employees can use the network effectively.
A software engineer may have different tasks depending on what stage their project is in. For example, if they’re working on debugging a program, they might spend time looking through code trying to find errors. If they’re working on testing a finished product, they may run simulations to see how the software handles certain user scenarios. Other responsibilities include creating documentation for users and maintaining current programs.
Job Requirements
Infrastructure engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or a related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree to gain more advanced knowledge in the field. Additionally, many infrastructure engineers become certified through the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This organization offers certification programs that teach professionals how to design, develop and maintain electrical systems.
Software engineers also usually need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or a related field. They might also pursue a master’s degree to gain more advanced knowledge in the field. In addition to their educational requirements, software engineers might also become certified through the IEEE Computer Society. This organization offers certification programs that teach professionals how to design, develop and maintain software applications.
Work Environment
Infrastructure engineers typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to construction sites. They may spend their days working on computers and using software programs to design projects. Software engineers usually work in an office environment, but they may also travel to client locations for meetings or conferences. They may spend their days working with teams of other engineers and developers to create new products.
Skills
Both infrastructure engineers and software engineers use technical skills to perform their jobs. Infrastructure engineers need to have a strong understanding of computer systems, networking and data storage, while software engineers need to be proficient in programming languages and software development tools.
Both types of engineers also need problem-solving skills to identify issues and develop solutions. However, because infrastructure engineers typically work on a larger scale than software engineers, they may need to have more developed project management skills to coordinate with other team members and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Software engineers often need to have excellent communication skills to collaborate with other developers on code changes or new features. They also may need to be able to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical staff or customers. Infrastructure engineers may not need to communicate as frequently with others outside of their team, but they still need to be able to clearly convey their ideas when presenting proposals or documenting designs.
Salary
The average salary for an infrastructure engineer is $105,075 per year, while the average salary for a software engineer is $106,619 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of company you work for, your level of experience and your location.