How to Become an Entry-Level Software Engineer (Debugging Your Future!)

If you’re fascinated by the idea of creating innovative software and wondering what it takes to kickstart your career as an entry-level software engineer, you’ve landed on the right page.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the SPECIFIC steps you need to follow to embark on your journey as an entry-level software engineer. We’ll cover:
- The fundamental skills you need to hone.
- The educational background that could give you an edge.
- How to secure your first job as a software engineer.
So, whether you’re an absolute beginner in coding or a tech enthusiast looking to venture into the field, keep reading.
We’re about to unpack the roadmap to becoming an entry-level software engineer.
Let’s begin your journey!
Steps to Become an Entry-Level Software Engineer
Step 1: Obtain a Relevant Degree in Computer Science or a Related Field
Earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is a fundamental step in preparing for a role as an entry-level software engineer.
Most universities offer computer science programs that provide broad knowledge about algorithms, data structures, software design, and coding languages.
While in school, students should focus on enhancing their problem-solving skills and understanding of core computer science principles.
In the course of your studies, you may have the opportunity to specialize in a particular aspect of software development, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, or web development.
This would provide you with a more focused skill set, which could make you more appealing to certain employers.
If a traditional degree is not feasible, alternative options include online degrees and coding bootcamps.
These alternatives can also provide a solid foundation in coding and computer science principles and may offer more flexibility in terms of cost and schedule.
Regardless of the path you choose, ensure that you acquire practical experience as well, either through internships, part-time jobs, or personal projects.
This will not only solidify your understanding of the subject matter, but also demonstrate your capabilities to future employers.
Step 2: Learn and Master Fundamental Programming Languages
As an aspiring Entry-Level Software Engineer, it’s crucial to have a firm grasp on at least one or two fundamental programming languages.
These could include languages such as Java, Python, or C++, as they form the backbone of most software development tasks.
Start by picking one language that aligns with your career goals or personal interest, and focus on understanding its concepts in depth.
Online courses, coding bootcamps, and college courses are all good resources to learn from.
Practicing coding problems daily will not only help you master the language but also improve your problem-solving skills, which is a vital requirement in any software engineering role.
Once you are comfortable with your first language, try to learn a second one.
This will not only make you more marketable to employers but also give you a different perspective on solving problems, making you a better developer overall.
Remember, mastering a programming language doesn’t just mean knowing its syntax.
It also includes understanding its standard library, ecosystem, and the best practices for writing clean, efficient code in that language.
Building small projects is a great way to gain this experience, as it allows you to apply what you’ve learned in a practical way.
This will also provide you with concrete examples of your work to showcase to potential employers.
Step 3: Understand the Basics of Data Structures, Algorithms, and Software Design
As an aspiring software engineer, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental aspects of computer science – data structures and algorithms.
These are integral to solving complex programming problems and writing efficient code.
There are various online resources and books available to learn and practice data structures and algorithms, such as ‘Introduction to Algorithms’ by Cormen, Leiserson, Rivest, and Stein.
You should also develop a strong understanding of software design principles.
This involves learning about design patterns, object-oriented programming, architectural patterns like MVC (Model View Controller), MVVM (Model View-ViewModel), etc.
These principles and patterns will help you write cleaner, maintainable, and reusable code.
Consider taking relevant courses or workshops during your undergraduate studies, or independently online through platforms like Coursera, Udacity, or Khan Academy.
Participating in coding competitions or contributing to open-source projects can also provide practical experience and a deeper understanding of these concepts.
Remember, the goal is not just to learn the theory but also to apply it in practical scenarios.
Lastly, keep up to date with the latest trends in software development and technologies.
The field of software engineering is dynamic and rapidly evolving, so continuous learning and adaptation are keys to a successful career.
Step 4: Develop Personal Coding Projects to Showcase Your Skills
As an entry-level software engineer, working on personal projects can give you practical experience and help you showcase your skills to potential employers.
These projects can vary from building websites, developing mobile applications, creating software tools, to solving complex algorithms.
This step is critical to not only practice and apply the theoretical knowledge you have gained but also to demonstrate your problem-solving skills, creativity, and initiative.
Choose projects that you are passionate about or that align with the industry or role you aim to pursue.
For example, if you’re interested in web development, consider creating a unique website or enhancing an existing one.
In addition to building projects, you should maintain a portfolio to showcase these projects.
A GitHub account can serve this purpose.
Here, you can upload your code and provide thorough documentation, demonstrating the functionality of your project and the problems it solves.
Remember, the objective of these projects is not just to show you can code, but also to demonstrate that you can work on real-world problems, collaborate on teams, and see a project through from inception to completion.
So don’t forget to highlight any teamwork or leadership roles you undertook during these projects.
Ultimately, personal coding projects can serve as proof of your skills and dedication to your craft, making you stand out amongst other entry-level software engineers.
Step 5: Participate in Coding Challenges and Hackathons
Participating in coding challenges and hackathons can provide you with practical experience and demonstrate your ability to solve real-world problems.
These events are often organized by tech companies, universities, and online platforms and involve intense coding sessions, typically involving teams.
Coding challenges and hackathons not only give you a platform to showcase your skills but also provide an opportunity to learn from others and improve your teamwork skills.
They can be a valuable way to meet people in the industry, network, and potentially even land a job.
In addition, the problems presented in these events often resemble the kind of issues you’ll face in a professional setting, making them an excellent way to prepare for a career in software engineering.
They can help you understand how to work under pressure, how to collaborate with a team, and how to think creatively to come up with innovative solutions.
Joining these events will also help you build a portfolio that can impress potential employers.
The projects that you create during these events can demonstrate your abilities, creativity, and dedication to the field.
Furthermore, if your team wins or performs exceptionally well, that’s a significant achievement that you can list on your resume.
So, make sure to actively look for and participate in coding challenges and hackathons as it can give you a competitive edge and help you stand out in the job market.
Step 6: Contribute to Open Source Projects for Real-World Experience
As an entry-level software engineer, it’s crucial to have real-world experience that you can showcase to potential employers.
One way to gain this experience is by contributing to open source projects.
Open source projects are those whose source code is made available to the public, allowing anyone to contribute, modify, or distribute the project.
Contributing to these projects not only gives you hands-on experience with actual coding projects, but it also lets you work collaboratively with other developers across the globe.
It can help you understand different coding styles and approaches, and also exposes you to the practical challenges that arise in software development.
Start by identifying an open source project that aligns with your interests or the skills you want to improve.
It could be a software, a library, or a web application.
Once you’ve found a project, you can usually find a list of tasks that need to be completed.
Choose a task that matches your skill level, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from the community if you get stuck.
Remember, your contributions don’t always have to be code.
You can also contribute by reporting bugs, improving documentation, or even by providing user support.
The experience and skills you gain from contributing to open source projects can be a powerful addition to your resume.
It demonstrates to potential employers your initiative, your practical coding skills, and your ability to work collaboratively with a team.
Plus, it shows that you’re actively engaged in the software development community.
Step 7: Secure Internships or Co-op Positions in Tech Companies
Securing internships or co-op positions at tech companies is a significant step towards becoming an entry-level software engineer.
Such programs not only provide you with hands-on experience but also allow you to understand the practical applications of the theoretical knowledge you’ve gained during your academic career.
Internships and co-op programs often involve working on real-life projects, which can help you gain in-depth knowledge about specific software, languages, and methodologies.
It also helps you to gain insights into the inner workings of a tech company and understand corporate culture.
This exposure can help you make informed decisions about your career path and specific areas of interest.
Moreover, these opportunities provide an excellent platform to network with professionals in the field.
Building relationships with these individuals can provide mentorship opportunities and may even lead to job offers after graduation.
When applying for internships or co-op positions, it’s essential to have a well-crafted resume and cover letter that highlight your skills, academic achievements, and any relevant projects you’ve completed.
Remember, your goal is to stand out and demonstrate your potential as a future software engineer.
It’s also worth noting that some companies may offer paid internships or co-op positions, which can provide financial support while you gain industry experience.
Remember, even if the internship or co-op position doesn’t result in a job offer, the experience and skills you gain will be invaluable when you start applying for entry-level software engineer positions.
Step 8: Build a Professional Network within the Tech Industry
Building a robust professional network within the tech industry is a critical step in landing an entry-level software engineering position.
Start by connecting with your peers, professors, mentors, and alumni from your college or boot camp.
Join professional networking sites such as LinkedIn and make sure your profile is up-to-date, showcasing your skills, projects, and accomplishments.
Next, attend tech events, meetups, hackathons, and conferences where you can meet industry professionals and other like-minded individuals.
Such platforms provide opportunities to learn about the latest trends, gain new skills, and potentially meet future employers.
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and talk about your interests and aspirations.
Also, consider joining online forums, tech communities, or interest groups on platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or Reddit.
Participate in discussions, ask questions, and contribute to open-source projects.
This involvement not only enhances your skills but also improves your visibility in the tech community.
Remember, networking isn’t just about asking for job opportunities.
It’s about building meaningful, long-term relationships.
Be genuine, show interest in others’ work, and provide help when you can.
Over time, these connections can lead to job referrals, recommendations, or new career opportunities.
Step 9: Keep Up-to-Date with the Latest Software Engineering Trends and Technologies
In this rapidly evolving field, an entry-level software engineer should strive to stay current with the latest software engineering trends, technologies, and best practices.
Technologies are continually evolving and new languages, tools, and platforms are regularly introduced.
Consequently, it’s essential to always be learning and improving your skills.
You can stay up-to-date by subscribing to relevant technical magazines and blogs, joining online communities and forums, attending industry events, and participating in webinars and training sessions.
Furthermore, open-source projects provide an excellent opportunity to learn about new technologies and collaborate with other software engineers around the world.
It’s also beneficial to continuously revisit and refine your foundational programming skills, as these are critical regardless of the current trends.
Learning about new software engineering methodologies and implementing them in your projects can make you more efficient and keep you at the forefront of your field.
Staying current with the latest trends is not only beneficial for your personal and professional growth but also makes you a valuable asset to your team and company.
Employers appreciate employees who take the initiative to learn about the latest technologies and implement them to improve the organization’s products and services.
Remember, continual learning is the key to success in the field of software engineering.
By staying current, you can advance your career and ensure that you’re always ready for the next challenge.
Step 10: Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills and Analytical Thinking
As an entry-level software engineer, it is crucial to continuously improve your problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.
Both skills are required to accurately understand, interpret and solve complex programming challenges.
To improve problem-solving skills, you should regularly practice coding challenges on websites like HackerRank, Codecademy, LeetCode, or Codewars.
These platforms offer multiple problems that can help you think algorithmically and come up with effective solutions.
To enhance analytical thinking, consider studying discrete mathematics, algorithms, and data structures, as these subjects form the basis of software engineering.
They help you understand how computers work and how to design efficient algorithms.
Additionally, participating in hackathons or contributing to open-source projects can also help in improving these skills.
They expose you to real-world problems and give you the opportunity to collaborate with others, which can provide a different perspective on solving problems.
Remember, these skills are not developed overnight.
It takes time, practice, and effort.
Therefore, never stop learning and constantly challenge yourself with more complex problems.
This will ultimately help you grow as a professional software engineer.
Step 11: Master the Art of Technical Interviews
As an aspiring Entry-Level Software Engineer, mastering the art of technical interviews is vital in landing your first job in the industry.
Technical interviews are common in the software engineering field and can often be challenging, demanding not just knowledge but also problem-solving skills in real-time.
To start with, familiarize yourself with the basic principles of computer science, programming languages, algorithms, and data structures.
Employers generally focus on your understanding and application of these fundamentals during the interview.
Start practicing coding problems regularly.
There are multiple platforms available online such as LeetCode, HackerRank, and CodeSignal that provide a wide variety of problems with varying levels of difficulty.
This practice will help you think algorithmically and boost your problem-solving abilities under time constraints.
Also, learn about system design and object-oriented design principles.
These topics are often included in interviews for software engineering roles and demonstrate your ability to construct efficient systems and software.
Next, participate in mock interviews.
Websites such as Pramp and Interviewing.io offer free mock interviews which can help you gain practical experience.
Mock interviews not only familiarize you with the interview setting but also give you a chance to receive feedback and improve.
Finally, keep yourself updated on the latest trends and technologies in the software engineering field.
This will demonstrate your passion for the field to potential employers.
Familiarize yourself with the company and its technical stack before the interview to impress the interviewer with your knowledge about their operations.
Remember, being able to explain your thought process and solution clearly is equally important as solving the problem itself.
Develop this skill by explaining your solutions to peers, mentors, or even just to yourself.
Step 12: Begin Applying for Entry-Level Software Engineering Positions
At this stage, after acquiring necessary skills and experiences, you should start applying for entry-level software engineering positions.
Develop a compelling resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant coursework, projects, internships, and skills.
Begin your job search by leveraging the career resources available at your school or boot camp.
They may have connections with companies looking for entry-level software engineers.
Online job boards and company websites are also a good source for job openings.
Networking can significantly increase your job prospects, so connect with professionals in the industry through LinkedIn and attend tech meetups or conferences.
Prepare for your job interviews by researching common software engineering interview questions.
These often involve technical questions, problem-solving scenarios, and behavioral questions.
Brush up on your coding skills and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a technical interview.
Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get a job offer right away.
Continue refining your skills, networking, and applying for positions.
Persistence and dedication are key in landing your first software engineering job.
Remember, the goal of an entry-level position is to provide you with the opportunity to apply and grow the skills you have learned, so look for jobs that offer good learning opportunities and growth potential.
Entry-Level Software Engineer Roles and Responsibilities
Entry-Level Software Engineers are newly graduated or newly hired professionals in the field of software development.
They have the primary responsibilities to write, test, debug and maintain the source code of software applications.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Software Development
- Write, debug and maintain software applications under supervision.
- Contribute to the design and implementation of software solutions.
- Learn and utilize programming languages and development frameworks.
Problem Solving
- Identify and resolve simple software defects.
- Assist in troubleshooting issues in software systems under guidance.
System Architecture
- Understand the software architecture from senior developers.
- Participate in system design and architectural discussions.
Testing and Quality Assurance
- Assist in writing unit tests and integration tests.
- Ensure the software meets basic quality and security standards under supervision.
- Assist in both automated and manual testing.
Documentation
- Help in creating and maintaining technical documentation for code and systems.
Collaboration
- Work as part of a team with experienced software engineers, designers, product managers, and QA engineers.
Version Control
- Learn to use version control tools to manage code repositories.
- Understand and apply basic concepts of branching, merging, and conflict resolution.
Agile/Scrum
- Learn and follow Agile methodologies for project management.
- Participate in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.
Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
- Learn and assist in setting up and maintaining CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
Performance Optimization
- Learn to identify and resolve basic performance bottlenecks under supervision.
Security
- Learn about security best practices and potential vulnerabilities.
- Help in implementing basic security measures to protect software and data.
Maintenance and Updates
- Assist in providing ongoing support for deployed software.
- Learn to apply updates, patches, and bug fixes as needed.
Technical Research
- Learn to research and evaluate new tools, libraries, and frameworks under guidance.
Communication
- Learn to communicate technical information effectively to peers and supervisors.
- Document and communicate project progress and issues under guidance.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated with the latest technology trends and improve technical skills.
- Attend relevant training programs, workshops, and seminars as part of professional development.
What Does an Entry-Level Software Engineer Do?
Entry-Level Software Engineers typically begin their career in a corporation’s IT department or in technology firms, under the supervision of senior engineers.
They are primarily involved in writing and debugging code.
This could be for software applications, web development, or system architecture, based on the needs of the project and the organization they are working for.
They work closely with a team of Software Engineers and Developers to understand the specifications and requirements of the project and translate them into a workable code.
An Entry-Level Software Engineer is also responsible for testing the code they write for any errors or bugs.
They are expected to rectify these bugs and ensure the smooth running of the software or system.
In some cases, they may also be involved in maintaining and upgrading existing systems or software.
As part of their job, Entry-Level Software Engineers need to continually update their skills and knowledge in line with the latest technological advancements and industry trends.
They may also participate in regular team meetings and are often expected to report on the progress of their assignments.
Their role is essential in ensuring the successful completion of the project within the agreed timeline and to the satisfaction of the client or the employer.
Essential Entry-Level Software Engineer Skills
- Basic Programming Knowledge: Fundamental knowledge of programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ is crucial. Entry-level software engineers should be able to write, debug, and understand code.
- Understanding of Data Structures and Algorithms: These are the basic building blocks of programming. A good understanding of data structures and algorithms is important for writing efficient code and problem-solving.
- Version Control Systems: Familiarity with version control systems like Git is essential for managing changes in the software’s source code.
- Debugging: The ability to identify and fix bugs is a key skill. This involves testing, debugging, and problem-solving abilities.
- Software Development Methodologies: Knowledge of methodologies like Agile and Waterfall is important for understanding how a software project progresses from conception to completion.
- Basic Database Knowledge: Understanding databases and SQL (Structured Query Language) is important for managing and manipulating data in software applications.
- Web Technologies: Basic understanding of web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript is beneficial, especially for those aspiring to be web developers.
- Problem-solving: Entry-level software engineers should have good problem-solving abilities. This involves thinking logically and creatively to find solutions to software-related problems.
- Communication: Good communication skills are necessary for discussing ideas, collaborating with teams, and explaining technical concepts to non-technical team members.
- Continuous Learning: Technology evolves rapidly, so a willingness to learn and stay updated with the latest tech trends is an important skill.
- Attention to Detail: Software development requires a keen eye for detail to spot errors in code, identify potential issues, and ensure high-quality output.
- Teamwork: Software development is often a collaborative effort. Being able to work well in a team, share knowledge, and contribute towards a common goal is essential.
- Time Management: Balancing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and prioritizing work effectively is important in the fast-paced world of software development.
- Patience: Debugging and testing code can be a tedious process. Patience and perseverance are key attributes for any software engineer.
- Passion for Technology: A genuine interest in technology and enthusiasm for creating innovative software solutions can help drive success in this field.
Entry-Level Software Engineer Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Entry-Level Software Engineer
As an Entry-Level Software Engineer, you’re at the starting line of your career journey.
At this phase, you’ll primarily focus on honing your coding skills and gaining exposure to various software development practices.
Your responsibilities often include writing and testing code, debugging programs, and learning how to work within a software development team.
Here are some tips to succeed:
- Continuous Learning: Familiarize yourself with different programming languages, methodologies, and tools.
- Seek Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from your peers and superiors to improve your skills and workflows.
- Collaboration: Learn how to work effectively within a team, as software development is often a collaborative endeavor.
The Ascent: Junior Software Engineer
Upon gaining some experience and proficiency, you’ll progress to the role of a Junior Software Engineer.
Here, you’ll handle slightly more complex tasks, be involved in code reviews, and may even participate in the design process.
Here’s how to thrive:
- Advanced Coding: Improve your coding skills and learn advanced programming concepts.
- Problem Solving: Learn to solve complex problems and develop efficient solutions.
- Professional Development: Start attending technical seminars or workshops to expand your knowledge and network with peers.
Reaching New Heights: Software Engineer
After proving your capabilities as a Junior Software Engineer, you’ll move up to the role of Software Engineer.
In this stage, you’ll likely be involved in all stages of software development and may even take lead on smaller projects.
To succeed, focus on:
- Project Management: Learn how to manage projects effectively, from planning to deployment.
- Teamwork: Enhance your collaboration skills to work effectively with diverse teams.
- Specialization: Consider focusing on a specific area of software engineering that interests you.
Beyond the Horizon: Senior Software Engineer and Beyond
As you continue to grow and gain experience, you might transition to roles like Senior Software Engineer, Lead Engineer, or even Software Architect.
These positions require expert skills, leadership, and the ability to make critical decisions.
At this stage, you should:
- Leadership: Develop leadership skills to guide and mentor junior team members.
- Strategic Thinking: Learn to think strategically about software design and implementation.
- Innovation: Stay updated with the latest technology trends and incorporate them into your work.
Pinnacle of Success: CTO or VP of Engineering
At the top of the software engineering career ladder, you might become a Chief Technology Officer or VP of Engineering.
These roles involve overseeing the entire technical strategy of an organization, managing large teams, and making strategic decisions that drive the business forward.
Entry-Level Software Engineer Salary
Entry-Level Software Engineer
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Entry-level software engineers are typically recent graduates with a degree in computer science or related fields. They may have limited professional experience, ranging from internships to up to 2 years in a full-time position.
- In this role, they are typically responsible for writing code, debugging software, and learning from senior team members. They work under supervision and are given tasks that help them gradually build their technical and problem-solving skills.
- Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and country of employment, as well as the specific industry. For instance, entry-level roles in high-tech industries or major tech hubs tend to offer higher salaries.
Entry-Level Software Engineer Work Environment
Entry-level Software Engineers typically work in an office setting, although some may have the flexibility to work remotely.
They are often employed in technology companies, software development firms, and in the IT departments of various industries.
Work schedules are typically full-time, and they may need to work extra hours when approaching a project deadline.
Entry-level Software Engineers spend most of their time writing, testing, and debugging software on their computers.
They often work as part of a team that includes other software engineers, programmers, and IT professionals.
As they gain experience and knowledge, they may advance to roles with increased responsibility or specialize in a specific area, such as algorithm design or data science.
They may also be given the opportunity to manage teams and projects.
FAQs About Becoming an Entry-Level Software Engineer
What qualifications do I need to become an entry-level software engineer?
To become an entry-level software engineer, you typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.
You should also have proficiency in at least one programming language such as Python, Java, or C++.
Knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and software development methodologies is also necessary.
Some employers might also require familiarity with specific technologies, depending on the nature of the job.
However, the key is to demonstrate a solid foundation of programming skills and a passion for learning and adapting to new technologies.
What kind of work will I be doing as an entry-level software engineer?
As an entry-level software engineer, your primary responsibilities will include coding, debugging, and testing software based on the specifications provided by senior engineers or team leads.
You may also participate in code reviews, contribute to technical documentation, and collaborate with other team members on software design and implementation.
Over time, you may get opportunities to work on larger, more complex projects as you gain experience and expertise.
What kind of companies hire entry-level software engineers?
A wide range of companies hire entry-level software engineers.
This includes tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon, as well as startups, small and medium-sized businesses, and non-profit organizations.
You could also work in various industries such as finance, healthcare, entertainment, retail, and more, as software development is a critical function in many different sectors.
What’s the difference between a software developer and an entry-level software engineer?
While the terms ‘software developer’ and ‘software engineer’ are often used interchangeably, there can be subtle differences.
A software developer primarily focuses on writing code and creating software applications.
An entry-level software engineer, on the other hand, might be more involved in not just coding but also system design, testing, and maintenance.
However, the distinction can vary by company and is not always clear-cut.
What are the opportunities for advancement for an entry-level software engineer?
There are plentiful opportunities for advancement for entry-level software engineers.
With experience and increased skills, you can progress to roles such as senior software engineer, lead developer, software architect, or project manager.
Additionally, some software engineers choose to specialize in high-demand areas like data science, cybersecurity, or artificial intelligence, which can offer further career growth.
Conclusion
So, there you have it.
Embarking on the journey to become an entry-level software engineer might seem like a daunting task, but it’s truly rewarding.
Equipped with the correct set of skills, the right kind of education, and a determination that doesn’t waver, you are all set to leave a significant mark in the digital realm.
Remember, the road might be tough, but the possibilities are boundless. Your ingenuity could just spark the next major innovation that revolutionizes the way we live, work, and connect.
So, take the plunge. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And above all, never stop coding.
Because the digital world is eagerly waiting for what you can invent.
If you’re in search of personalized guidance on kicking off or progressing your career in software engineering, do visit our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is engineered to provide bespoke advice and resources to help you steer your career path effectively.
AI’s Human Hurdle: The Professions That Machines Can’t Handle
Fulfilling Work: Jobs That Offer Satisfaction and Success
The Fun Way to Earn: Enjoyable Jobs with Attractive Salaries