How to Become a C++ Developer

Key takeaways

To become a C++ developer, you’ll need to know how to design and maintain software in C++, analyze code, develop desktop applications, and more.

• C++ developers may work in technical industries, such as information technology, or in other industries like finance, retail, and manufacturing.

• C++ development roles require a mix of technical and workplace skills, including knowledge of data structures and algorithms, as well as teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

• You can become a C++ developer by earning a degree and gaining experience through entry-level roles or internships.

Learn more about C++ developers, including duties and responsibilities, and how to become one. Afterward, consider enrolling in the Coding for Everyone: C and C++ Specialization. In as little as one month, you’ll have the opportunity to learn how to write and debug code in C and C++ programming languages. Upon completion, add this shareable credential to your resume or LinkedIn profile.

What is a C++ developer? 

A C++ developer works on mobile and desktop applications that use C++. It’s generally an office job, although some developers work remotely and in a freelance capacity. Industries that typically employ C++ developers are technical, but you can also find positions in the following:

• Finance

• Manufacturing

• Retail

• Transport

• Management professions

C++ developers are technical-minded, with strong analytical skills and the ability to think creatively. To work in this field, employers typically require a bachelor's or master's degree and a demonstration of C++ expertise. 

What does a C++ developer do?

Usually, you’ll work in a team of developers creating, maintaining, testing, and repairing software and apps. You may oversee the development process and work with customers to identify their design needs. Read on to learn about the tasks and responsibilities of C++ developers.

Tasks and responsibilities

C++ developers work in various businesses and organizations, and tasks and duties vary from each role. However, C++ developers are typically responsible for the following:

• Working with stakeholders and customers to understand the project scope

• Working with a software development team, sometimes overseeing members of the team

• Writing and analyzing C++ code

• Developing desktop software and applications

• Identifying bugs and errors in code and finding solutions

• Performing tests and debugging

• Improving software and systems

• Maintaining software and performing upgrades

• Documenting processes and maintaining software development records

• Keeping up to date with C++ standards

Important skills for C++ developers

C++ developers are skilled professionals with great technical expertise and a high skill set in C++. In addition to programming languages, you must also demonstrate a range of other technical and workplace skills. Technical skills represent the practical aspects of your role, while workplace skills contribute to how productive you are in a work environment.

Technical skills:

• Object-oriented programming

• C++

• Python

• Java

• JavaScript

• Perl

• SQL Server

• Visualization

• Embedded systems

• Algorithms

• Data structures

• Debugging

• Multithreading

• Software development

Workplace skills:

• Communication

• Teamwork

• Troubleshooting

• Problem-solving

• Analytical thinking

Salary and job outlook 

The job outlook for software developers is excellent. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that positions for software developers are estimated to grow 15 percent between 2024 and 2034, which is much higher than the 4 percent average for other occupations [1]. This equates to about 140,100 job openings for roles like software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers each year during this decade.

According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for C developers in the US is $117,000 annually [2]. This figure includes base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation.

Why become a C++ developer?

As the world relies increasingly on technology, developers are in high demand, and you’ll find many perks to the job. Let's look at some advantages of becoming a C++ developer.

1. High demand

As we’ve seen, the job outlook for developers in general is high, as technical positions are in demand. You’ll also find room for progression and sidestepping to different roles within this field. As a developer, you can move to more senior roles, and you’ll find opportunities to move into other similar positions, such as a software engineer or a Java developer.

2. Creativity

Software development of any kind is very creative since you’re able to develop almost anything using code. You’ll spend time problem-solving and coding during the design process. Working on your projects means you can be creative and provide opportunities to include them in your resume. 

3. Job flexibility and remote work

Working as a C++ developer brings an element of flexibility as it is a desk-based job that is often performed alone or remotely. This means you’re able to work from anywhere. 

4. Salary

C++ developers can command high salaries, which increase further with experience and the right employer. According to Zippia, some top-paying companies and institutions, such as The Citadel, pay C++ developers as high as $156,196 annually [3].

5. Problem-solving

If you enjoy solving problems, a C++ developer role can be a great option. Software development is full of challenges, such as writing code for a specific purpose, fixing and debugging code, and using it to solve client problems. 

C++ developer jobs

Besides the role of a C++ developer, you may look for related roles that use C++, either as career advancement opportunities, new professional goals, or entry-level positions. Other jobs that use C++ include programmers, web developers, and software engineers.

Career path for a C++ developer

You need a mix of education, experience, and skills to start a career in C++ development. Qualifying for a junior position with zero to three years of professional experience is possible, but you must demonstrate relevant skills and experience through study.

An entry point for C++ developers is a position such as a software engineer, or you may take on an internship to gain experience.

Read more: Is Computer Science Hard?

Education

Employers seeking C++ developers will typically require at least a bachelor’s degree. According to Zippia, 71 percent hold a bachelor’s degree, 23 percent hold a master’s degree, and 3 percent hold an associate [4]. Common degree programs include computer science, information technology, electrical engineering, and computer engineering.

Certifications and certificates

In addition to having a bachelor’s degree, certifications and course certificates are a useful way to demonstrate your technical knowledge and enhance your resume. Becoming certified often shows your dedication to your career path and can be a great way to increase your earning potential. To be a C++ developer, skills in C++ programming are a must, but other programming languages are also important, so you’ll find many options for certifications and certificates. Some examples include:

• C++ Certified Professional Programmer Certification (CPP): C++ Institute

• C++ Certified Associate Programmer Certification (CAP): C++ Institute

• Star C++ Programming Certification: NICCS

• Object Orientation Programming Specialization: University of London

Discover free career resources

Subscribe to our Career Chat newsletter on LinkedIn to receive career insights, resume-building skills, and job search tips right to your inbox. Then, explore free, digital resources to optimize your professional growth:

• Watch on YouTube: Mastering the Code: Essential Skills Every Software Developer Needs

• Take a quiz: Career Test: What Career is Right for Me Quiz?

• Learn from experts: How This Self-Taught Web Developer Went Straight to a Master's Degree

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