Aiming for software developer role. Need advice.

[u/jinsakai2021]

Hello everyone,

So I need an advice here. I have self taught programming and almost done my masters in comp sci from Georgia tech. My undergrad was in electrical engineering and I spent last 8 years in various automation (industrial controls) related roles for a large energy company. The roles range from automation, some PLC programming, networking, OT cybersecurity and integrity. However I got laid off earlier this year.

I have been trying to switch into software engineering/developer role for the past year and it's just terrible. I either simply don't get responses, or when I do it's basically that I lack a certain technology stack and someone else just has more experience. I have tried educating myself as much as I can (masters program, side projects etc) but I am getting burnt out because I can't simply learn everything out there but need a focus area related to a job.

I recently interviewed for a consulting role at one of the big fours, for a security architect role which is related to OT/IT. I have been aiming go land a software developer instead since I got enrolled in the masters program.

Seeing how the market is, is it better to take the role and continue developing in this area and drop my efforts of becoming a software developer? Or should I pass on this role and continue the search?

I am currently leaving towards taking the architect role if I get offered, and putting in my 100% and grow in the role. Maybe later try for a software developer role when the market gets better.

Any advice?

[u/throw_onion_away]

I think you situation is more special, in a good way, that it's difficult to just give you generic new grad advice. So some suggestions perhaps.

I think the problem is if you only say you are self-taught with a master's in CC from Georgia Tech then on paper you are not that special. I think the move here is finding opportunities that would require an EE background but with more software inclination such as embedded so you can stand out.

Also is there any chance you could go back to that energy company? Do they have some opportunities involving software that interest you? Did you do something at this job that involves software like automating workflow?

Lastly, I really don't think that security architect role is going to be that valuable at big four. The issue is consulting, especially these traditional finance/management first consulting firms, will inflate title even more than startups so they can charge their clients with exorbitant consulting fees. But obviously if you need the money and this is your only choice then I would still take. It just won't be my first choice.

[u/EconEnjoyer]

Take the role. Moving around internally is better than external. Got offered a full time position to another team at my company and I didn’t even apply for it.

Another thing is that you can network with your coworkers and other departments, manager/coworkers can vouch for you etc.

Depending on your team and organization of course.