career Comparison
Compare key metrics between Materials Engineers and Software Developers. Data sourced from BLS OEWS 2024 + O*NET 29.0 (2024).
| Metric | Materials Engineers | Software Developers |
|---|---|---|
| soc | 17-2131 | 15-1252 |
| title | Materials Engineers | Software Developers |
| onet code | 17-2131.00 | 15-1252.00 |
| description | Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers. | Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. |
| job zone | 4 | 4 |
| major group | 17 | 15 |
| tot emp | 22,770 | 1,654,440 |
| a mean | 116,380 | 144,570 |
| a median | 108,310 | 133,080 |
| a pct10 | 68,040 | 79,850 |
| a pct25 | 85,820 | 103,050 |
| a pct75 | 138,370 | 169,000 |
| a pct90 | 172,000 | 211,450 |
| h mean | 55 | 69 |
| h median | 52 | 63 |
The CertifyWize editorial team aggregates and verifies careers data from BLS OEWS 2024 + O*NET 29.0. Every statistic on this site is cross-referenced against the official source before publication, with quarterly re-verification cycles.
Read our full methodology or contact us with corrections.
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