How to become a software engineer: A step-by-step guide

Software engineering is one of the most fast-evolving fields today, with employment expected to increase by 26% over the decade from 2022 to 2032

. As technology integrates more deeply into energy sectors, the demand for engineers skilled in designing, developing, and maintaining energy solutions is growing.

Today, you have more pathways than ever to break into the field of software engineering. With advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing, it’s destined to continue being a lucrative career choice.

Importance of software engineers at Shell and their role in advancing energy solutions

Software engineers are indispensable to driving innovations that empower and improve people’s lives while advancing our sustainability commitments.

To help Shell fulfill its mission of meeting global energy demands, our software engineers develop and optimize digital tools and data analytics systems that enhance operational efficiency across our global supply chains, supporting our goal to be a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050.

Recent times have been a stark reminder that energy matters and that energy security cannot be taken for granted. Our software engineers balance the need for reliable energy today with the imperative of a sustainable future.

Shell’s journey towards a balanced energy transition that supports net-zero emissions while providing a stable, secure, and affordable energy supply for global needs is guided by our commitment to powering progress today and tomorrow.

Educational pathways to becoming a software engineer

Overview of required education

The most common educational requirement for software engineering roles at Shell is a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or information technology. Other relevant fields include electrical engineering and mathematics, which provide crucial soft skills.

However, as we value continuous learning and innovation, we provide comprehensive in-house learning platforms and mentorship programs for those eager to transition into software engineering. We also offer numerous career growth opportunities to ensure that our employees can continuously develop and advance in their respective fields.

Degrees necessary for a career in software engineering

Most software engineers hold at least a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s degree or PhD in related or specialized fields can significantly enhance an applicant’s professional appeal.

Certifications and online courses are highly welcomed; they complement formal education and provide applicants with the necessary expertise to work on specialized projects.

Recommended academic subjects and specializations

Aspiring software engineers should focus on subjects that build both analytical and technical skills, such as:

• Mathematics, particularly calculus, linear algebra, and discrete math, for problem-solving and algorithm design.
• Computer science fundamentals, with a focus on topics such as databases, operating systems, and computer networks.
• Software development methodologies, including agile, DevOps, and design patterns
• Programming languages, such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript.
• Data structures and algorithms.

Certifications and skills development

Key certifications that enhance a software engineer's credentials

At Shell, we heavily emphasize experience with cloud computing, cybersecurity, and software management. We value candidates with certifications such as:

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect, to demonstrate experience in cloud computing and the seamless integration of cloud-based tools.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert for building, deploying, and managing cloud services in alignment with our focus on scalable and sustainable energy solutions.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), to guarantee maximum data security and protect Shell’s global operations.
• Google Cloud Professional Data Engineer, to make data-driven decisions, which is crucial for our operations and efforts to optimize energy use.
• Agile Certifications or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), which reflect your ability to manage complex, collaborative software projects and demonstrate your efficiency in fast-paced, innovative environments.

Importance of continuous learning and personal development in keeping pace with technology

Only by staying ahead of the technological curve can we drive innovation and remain at the forefront of energy solutions.

We offer resources and career growth opportunities. Our employees are able to upskill through internal programs, partnerships with tech companies, sponsored external courses, and hands-on projects.

Types of software engineer projects at Shell

Innovative energy solutions

Projects aimed at increasing energy efficiency through technology

• Our “Digital Twin” technology, a virtual replica of physical assets and processes, is used in refineries to monitor real-time data, simulate scenarios, identify inefficiencies, optimize operations, and predict maintenance needs.

Data Analytics and Automation

Utilizing big data to optimize operations and reduce costs

• Analyzing data from weather patterns, market demand, and shipping routes has transformed our logistics and helped us reduce fuel consumption and emissions by optimizing routes and schedules.
• Our Smart Fields initiative uses data analytics and automation to optimize oil extraction by processing real-time data (pressure, temperature, flow rates) from sensors in oil wells with advanced algorithms.

Automating processes to enhance safety and productivity

• We use the C3 IoT Platform on Azure for predictive maintenance, analyzing data from critical equipment to predict failures, reduce downtime, and lower maintenance costs.

Sustainability initiatives

Software projects that support Shell’s sustainability and environmental goals

By 2050, we aim for net-zero emissions, and software engineers at Shell are indispensable to achieving this goal. They contribute to developing and implementing advanced digital solutions that support our sustainability strategies, such as:

• Innovative environmental tracking and reporting systems that help monitor and validate our carbon reduction initiatives.
• Advanced energy management technologies that optimize our approach to emissions reduction and renewable energy integration.

Practical experience: Gaining a foothold in the industry

Shell is ready to help you launch your career in software engineering

Internship opportunities at Shell

Internship opportunities at Shell provide you with a foundation for a successful career in the energy industry. Our Shell Assessed Internship Program allows you to participate in real projects and gain hands-on experience that aligns with your interests and abilities.

How internships can pave the way for a successful career and what Shell offers

We offer comprehensive support throughout the internship—mentoring, regular feedback, and structured assessments—to maximize learning and development and offer you a chance to network with global peers and Shell management.

Successful completion of the internship can lead to full-time employment opportunities, a significant stepping stone towards a rewarding career with us.

Entry-Level positions: Your gateway to the industry

Several entry-level software engineer roles are available to explore through the application process at Shell Graduate Program, which targets final-year students and recent graduates with up to 3 years of experience and the assessed internship program.

Types of entry-level roles available and the scope of projects new engineers might handle

• Graduate Software Engineer: New engineers work on developing and maintaining digital platforms, data analysis systems, and software for optimizing Shell’s operations.
• Data Scientist/Engineer: Engineers in this role tackle projects involving big data analytics to improve operational efficiency and sustainability, with a focus on optimizing energy use and reducing emissions.
• Cloud Engineer: In this role, you will support Shell’s digital transformation by working on cloud infrastructure projects that facilitate real-time data management and analytics.
• AI/ML Engineer: To enhance our operational efficiency and improve our safety and sustainability metrics, you will work on integrating AI and machine learning algorithms into our tools.

Project Participation

Our array of software engineering projects has a direct influence on the adoption of sustainability practices and the reduction of carbon emissions.

Examples of real-world software engineering projects at Shell and the impact they have

• The Experience Design team maintains a digital platform that enhances transparency in supply chain decarbonization and provides a centralized hub for low-carbon alternatives.
• Digital Twin Technology allows Shell to optimize operations, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing emissions by simulating different scenarios.
• Integrating AI and machine learning algorithms allows Shell to identify patterns and predict equipment failures before they happen to maximize uptime and minimize energy waste.
• Oren Marketplace, a digital platform developed in collaboration with IBM and designed to help mining companies manage and optimize their OT systems, provides industries with the tools to help minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining productivity.

Essential Skills for software engineers

Shell’s software engineers are required to be experts in business, technical, and interpersonal acumen.

Technical proficiency

Several must-have technical skills will set you apart as a Shell engineer, particularly familiarity with programming languages and systems knowledge.

Must have technical skills, including programming languages and systems knowledge

Engineers are encouraged to become proficient in languages such as Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, and SQL. 

To meet our scalability and operational efficiency goals, they are also recommended to familiarize themselves with cloud platforms, such as Microsoft Azure or AWS, DevOps tools, data analytics platforms such as C3 AI, and Agile and Scrum methodologies.

Soft skills that make a difference

At Shell, we heavily emphasize strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities

We must ensure that all team members are aligned with our business and sustainability goals and can collaborate efficiently on complex projects, as well as clearly and transparently report their results to maintain our stakeholder trust and regulatory compliance.

That is only possible within a collaborative environment where diverse skills and perspectives come together to innovate and progress towards our goals—challenges that require excellent problem-solving skills.

Integrating Skills with Shell’s Projects

The synergy of technical and interpersonal skills at a multidisciplinary level is what enables Shell to remain at the forefront of innovation.

How these skills apply to actual work scenarios at Shell

Our engineers’ technical expertise drives operational excellence, while their communication, teamwork, and adaptability foster seamless collaboration and strategic agility. 

This blend of problem-solving abilities and diverse expertise allows us to successfully develop and deploy transformative technologies in the energy sector and support our commitment to sustainability.

Career progression at Shell

As a software engineer at Shell, you have a structured path for career growth.

Mapping your career path

Steps and stages in career advancement for software engineers within Shell

• Graduate or junior software engineers join the company as part of the Shell Graduate Program or in an entry-level role. They are trained and provided with hands-on experience with Shell’s digital platforms and systems and are expected to continue learning and developing.
• Software engineers and senior software engineers take on more responsibility and are involved with larger projects; they work closely with senior management to drive key software initiatives.
• Lead engineers and technical experts are expected to stay at the cutting edge of tech and are responsible for driving the architecture of critical software systems while ensuring alignment with Shell’s business goals.

Experienced engineers can choose between becoming principal engineers, who focus on strategic decision-making and technical innovations, or engineering managers, who oversee teams and projects and manage talent, resources, and development initiatives.

With exceptional leadership and vision, you may progress into executive positions such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or VP of Engineering and influence company-wide technology strategies and innovation.

Mentorship and professional development

Shell offers formal mentorship opportunities where experienced engineers guide newcomers through their career paths.

How Shell supports ongoing professional education and growth through mentorship

We encourage employees to engage in continuous education by utilizing the various platforms, online courses, workshops, and seminars made available through our partnerships with leading educational institutions and tech companies.

Our structured career development framework outlines the necessary skills and competencies required at each level—we provide all the resources and support needed to help you achieve your career aspirations.

Leadership and beyond

Leadership roles often begin at the mid-to-senior level and grow in scale and responsibilities as you progress through your career.

Opportunities for assuming leadership roles and the qualities needed

Typically beginning with the management of small project teams and mentoring junior developers, you may move into management positions where your responsibilities evolve into managing resources, large teams, and guiding strategic software projects.

Leadership roles require:

• Mastery of both business and technical acumen,
• Innovative thinking,
• Strong soft skills, particularly communication, problem-solving, and teamwork,
• Interest in mentorship and development, and
• Strategic vision.

Shell’s commitment to employee growth and support

Core values and workplace culture

At Shell, we pride ourselves on fostering an environment that encourages you to be the best version of yourself.

We share a set of core values—honesty, respect for people, and integrity—that are deeply embedded in our workplace culture and align closely with personal and professional development goals.

How Shell’s values align with personal and professional development goals

We offer numerous initiatives to support personal growth, including comprehensive mentoring programs and essential training on respect in the workplace.

Our strategic partnerships with leading educational institutions and tech companies empower you to embark on exciting learning journeys to support your career aspirations and drive innovation and sustainability within our global operations.

Supportive and inclusive environment

Shell is dedicated to eliminating barriers and ensuring equal opportunities by focusing on gender, race, ethnicity, LGBT+, and disability inclusion.

Initiatives and programs aimed at fostering a supportive workplace

We aim to:

• Have 35% of senior leadership positions filled by women by 2025, increasing to 40% by 2030.
• Enhance racial and ethnic diversity within our workforce to better mirror the communities we serve.
• Provide a supportive environment for LGBT+ and PWD employees and ensure their potential is fully tapped into. With a score of 97.2%, Shell is one of only ten companies to be awarded advocate status by The Workplace Pride Global 2024 Benchmark.
• Make our global service stations more inclusive and accessible for customers with physical disabilities by 2030.