Top 5 Software Engineer Programming Languages to Power Your Brand

Software Engineers are talented individuals with extensive expertise in various aspects of web development. However, knowing which software engineering languages your employees should have can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for. We’ll help guide you through the industry's top software engineer programming languages your talent should have in their skill set to help power your brand and future-proof your organisation.

In this guide, we’ll explore these 5 programming languages for software engineers:

1. Go
2. Python
3. Java
4. JavaScript
5. C++

1. Go

Revealed to the IT engineering space by Google in 2007 and designed to be used in situations where C++ was considered unfit and not necessary, Go has quickly established itself as a pretty versatile open-source programming language for software engineers. Used by the likes of Twitch, Dropbox, Uber and, of course, Google, Go is known for its simplistic style. It has the ability to operate across multiple processes simultaneously and efficiently, from applications like network and system programming to data handling, cloud computing and video and audio editing.

Due to its simplistic nature and syntax, it’s suitable for even the most entry-level talent. Go offers cutting-edge memory management and safety features, with structural typing abilities, making it one of the much-loved and user-friendly programming languages for software engineers. It’s also fast and able to compile straight-to-machine code without the need for virtual assistance, allowing projects to be delivered quickly and efficiently.

If you’re mapping out your software engineering recruitment strategy and seeking top candidates to meet the demands of large-scale projects, Go is a great tool to have in your technical software engineering arsenal. Our consultant Ben specialises in the tech and has an extensive list of clients currently using the software – for anyone interested in more info on the tech, feel free to contact him!

2. Python

Building on our guide, which outlined the Cutting-Edge Technology Empowering Software Engineering Jobs, its versatility and vast ecosystem make Python ideal for powering innovation across web development, data science, and more. Whether you’re focused on software development, web applications, data science, or machine learning projects, this programming language is not just a nice thing to have in your business; it’s a must-have.

The universal appeal of Python as one of the top programming languages for software engineers lies in its syntax. Mirroring the simplicity of the English language, the syntax feature of Python makes it relatively straightforward for new recruits and seasoned coders to pick it up. It’s highly effective in that it can complete multiple tasks with fewer lines of code than other languages, enhancing the productivity levels of engineers and allowing them to deliver projects more seamlessly. 

Used by global juggernauts such as Google and YouTube, Python brings an extensive library of reusable code, meaning engineers never have to stress about starting projects from scratch. It also has an interactive testing feature, allowing engineers to redefine their code quickly. Oh, and did we mention its compatibility with other popular languages? Well, it can, with the likes of C++ and Java going hand-in-hand with Python, allowing for seamless integration with diverse software ecosystems. 

Another advantage of Python lies in its robust community support. With millions of software engineers actively engaged in continuous learning and resource-sharing, there's ample assistance available to overcome any obstacles or roadblocks that may arise regarding the tech.

Due to its popularity and ability to support back-end development across various projects, it’s no surprise companies in the tech space are seeking engineers with the technical know-how of Python. For context, the demand for software engineering recruitment relating to Python developers has seen a global increase of 41% in recent years.

3. Java

When it comes to attracting software engineers, a core programming language you should look for in a candidate's toolbox is Java. In 1995, Java burst onto the scene in a more noticeable fashion than Micah Richards, quickly cementing its position as one of the leading purpose-built programming languages for software engineers. 

Owned by Oracle Corporation, Java is defined as an independent platform. As an object-oriented language with Write Once, Run Anywhere (WORA) features, it can be used seamlessly across popular systems like IoS, Mac, Windows and Android. Java is run on 3 billion mobile devices and utilised across the back-end of popular sites like Amazon, Google, Twitter, and YouTube.  

Additionally, Java's object-oriented approach is valuable for code readability and organisation. Along with its garbage collection feature, whereby code is automatically deleted when no longer used or needed, Java also fosters a commitment to security, avoiding the use of pointers to enable secure and efficient memory management. 

Java boasts a multithreading feature, meaning it can execute complex processes independently of each other. Its prowess extends to its exception-handling quality, preserving the application's regular flow while handling runtime errors. Due to its versatility, it's no surprise Java is used in industries such as finance, e-commerce, and, of course, IT engineering. 

Without question, Java is a staple of software engineer programming languages, remaining relevant across the tech space and on the CVs of the best permanent and contract engineers worldwide. Its ability to adapt to the design and functionality of various applications across mobiles, computers, systems, and other devices makes it a no-brainer and one of the top technical software engineering skills you need to power your brand. 

4. JavaScript

Another of the top software engineer programming languages you should pay attention to if you're serious about powering your brand is JavaScript. Since its creation in 1995, it's grown to be used by over 17 million developers worldwide and by 98% of websites. As of 2023, it's the most used programming language, with over 63% of respondents stating they use it, according to data by Statista.

Those stats alone should be enough for you to factor the skills of Javascript into your software engineering recruitment strategy. But if you're looking for more info on it - here you go. Javascript is known for enhancing static web pages and seamlessly integrating with HTML and CSS - two other bonus software engineering skills your talent should be equipped with. It enables engineers and developers to produce dynamic sites, creating client-side scripts from the server side (Node.js) and the user. 

JavaScript has many benefits, including its ability to reduce server load and traffic by confirming and validating user input before the page is sent to the server while eliminating the need for page reloads to enhance user experience. It predominantly focuses on interactivity, creating responsive interfaces with multiple layers of richness to bolster the appearance of web pages, from interactive maps to animated graphics and drag-and-drop features. 

Beyond web development, this programming language required for most software engineering jobs extends to supporting mobile apps and game development to build web servers. The versatility and ease of use that come with JavaScript make it one of the must-have software engineer programming languages your business needs to complete any web-related projects.

5. C++

Whilst last on our list of the top software engineer programming languages to power your brand, its advantages and wide influence can’t be disputed. First released by Danish developer Bjarne Stroustrup in 1983, this language is still highly regarded in the IT engineering space. 

As one of the top object-oriented programming languages for software engineers, C++ is a versatile tool that combines the properties of low-level and high-level languages. These low-level languages include C, the predecessor to C++, which was invented in 1979 by Stroustrup. The more sophisticated high-level languages include Python and Java—two other essential software engineering skills we mentioned earlier in the guide.

It’s fair to say that C++ is a hybrid type of programming language, offering value to software engineering jobs in web development, operating systems, gaming and more. The strengths of C++ lie in its object-oriented design, allowing for a structured and modular approach. It makes memory management a breeze while seamlessly interfacing with various hardware systems, allowing engineers and developers to have direct control over their resources. 

C++ also supports early bug detection, making the development process of a brand’s projects more robust. Additionally, the speed and efficiency accompanying C++ and its versatility to be used across multiple platforms are other reasons this language is widely used. Ultimately, it’s no surprise that a vast community of developers and engineers prefers to use C++ and why you should seek it out when recruiting talent in software engineering. 

Let’s Wrap up the Top Software Engineer Programming Languages

The top-tier software engineer programming languages to power your brand include Go, Python, Java, JavaScript, and C++. As we’ve established, each language brings unique strengths to the table.

With its simplicity, efficiency, and versatility, Go is a go-to language for large-scale projects, offering user-friendly features and fast compilation. Python is a frontrunner with its universal appeal, readable syntax, and extensive library support, making it indispensable for various domains like software development, web applications, and data science.

Java, a longstanding powerhouse, impresses with its platform independence, object-oriented approach, and commitment to security, making it a staple in IT engineering. JavaScript, the most widely used language as of 2023, enhances web development with its dynamic scripting capabilities and integration with HTML and CSS, ensuring a rich user experience.

Finally, C++, a versatile hybrid language, combines low-level and high-level features, excelling in web development, operating systems, and gaming. Its object-oriented design, efficient memory management, and early bug detection contribute to its enduring popularity.

In the evolving IT engineering industry, these languages can empower businesses to tackle diverse projects with skill and efficiency. So, as you chart your software engineering recruitment strategy, consider these top programming languages as essential tools to power your brand and stay at the forefront of tech innovation.

If you found this guide useful and are looking for more support regarding software engineering recruitment, check out our guide on How to retain talent with a fierce IT employee retention strategy.

Ready for a Radical Approach to Software Engineering Recruitment?

If you’re a fast-growing organisation seeking support in sourcing the market’s best talent for your software engineering jobs, we can help. Our specialist software engineering recruitment consultants are here to breathe new life into your business by connecting you with the industry go-getters capable of taking you to the next level.  

Chat with one of our consultants today and see how we can match you with the talent equipped with the top software engineer programming languages to power your brand.