Designing software: Lead software engineers often take an active role in designing new software and computer systems. They can help create schematics or wire-frames for software, guide junior engineers in design techniques, and ensure initial schematics match customer preferences.
Testing software and systems: Lead engineers typically oversee the testing process for software and computer systems. They assign each team member specific testing parameters, then oversee the tests to ensure accuracy, measure results and determine whether to redesign the software or continue with the project.
Coordinating with other engineers: A lead software engineer coordinates with other engineers, including other software engineers, hardware engineers and electrical engineers to ensure the software they are designing meets the specifications to function correctly with computer software, machinery, or other technology.
Managing project deadlines and budgets: The lead software engineer is often responsible for the project's deadline and budget. They oversee the work, necessary tools or materials, and labour needs to ensure adherence to the budget and deadline.
Mentoring junior engineers: While the lead engineer oversees software development projects, they often also provide mentorship and direct training to junior engineers. They might make suggestions, ask for changes or directly challenge a junior engineer's ideas to help them grow professionally and create their best work.
Planning project scope and direction: The lead software engineer typically helps plan the scope, or size, of development projects and what creative direction to follow. For example, a lead engineer might determine that a customer's needs far exceed the initial project scope and submit a request for a redesign and planning meeting.
Coding software: Lead engineers also directly code computer software alongside junior engineers. A senior engineer might be responsible for a specific section of the code or for editing code as junior engineers complete different sections.
Fixing errors and bugs: Lead software engineers often are responsible for fixing any software errors or bugs that the user or client reports. They might also review reports from junior engineers on possible errors and directly edit the software's code to ensure it functions properly.
Assigning duties and monitoring team members: Lead engineers can assign specific tasks to different team members and oversee the completion of those tasks. They also monitor team members' performance, work quality and efficiency to identify areas for improvement.
Completing development reports: Lead engineers typically draft reports on finished development projects for the company's records. This might include information on project scope and budget, any changes the engineer approved or made, client feedback and possible errors that might need fixing prior to launch.
Updating development techniques and tools: Lead engineers typically stay updated with current technologies, techniques and any other development tools that might help make processes more efficient or modernised. They also suggest improvements to processes and help secure funding for the team to purchase equipment upgrades.
Related: What Is Software Engineering? Complete Guide