Software Developers, Systems Software
Research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications. Set operational specifications and formulate and analyze software requirements. May design embedded systems software. Apply principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis.
AI Impact Summary
Software Developers, Systems Software faces moderate AI displacement risk with a score of 40/100. This occupation has higher AI displacement risk than 64% of all analyzed occupations. Of 19 analyzed tasks, 5 are highly automatable, particularly routine cognitive tasks. Strong protective factors — including social intelligence, creativity, or regulatory barriers — significantly reduce effective risk.
Skill Impact Analysis
6
AI-Vulnerable
7
AI-Resistant
5
AI-Augmented
AI-Vulnerable
High reliance on Reading Comprehension is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
High reliance on Mathematics is a risk area. Consider developing complementary AI-resistant skills to maintain value.
AI-Resistant
Complex Problem Solving is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Social Perceptiveness is AI-resistant — strengthening this skill provides durable career protection.
Education & Training
Percentage of workers at each education and training level
Education Level
Prior Experience Needed
Work experience required to enter this job
Training Provided After Hiring
How long it typically takes to learn on the job
How AI Impacts Each Task
19 tasks analyzed
Modify existing software to correct errors, to adapt it to new hardware, or to upgrade interfaces and improve performance.
Monitor functioning of equipment to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications.
Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures.
Direct software programming and development of documentation.
Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
| Task | AI Capability | Risk | Time % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modify existing software to correct errors, to adapt it to new hardware, or to upgrade interfaces and improve performance. | 75 | 57.0% | 18% |
| Monitor functioning of equipment to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications. | 85 | 83.2% | 4% |
| Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures. | 70 | 55.0% | 8% |
| Direct software programming and development of documentation. | 35 | 29.0% | 6% |
| Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance. | 30 | 27.0% | 8% |
Protective Factors
Total protective discount: 21.6%
Essential Soft Skills
Traits that are hard for AI to replicate
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