How To Become A C++ Developer: What It Is and Career Path

What is a c++ developer and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Quoted Experts

Craig Tidwell Ph.D.,

Christian Hansen Ph.D.

C++ developers develop desktop and mobile software applications with expertise in the use of C++ programming language. They develop software and oversee applications across platforms while collaborating with the software development team on application design and development. C++ developers earn an average salary of $90,000 annually or $43 per hour.

C++ is a programming language, and C++ developers are masters in building it. They spend an ample amount of time implementing performance and quality modules. They also suggest and implement improvements on current products as well as work on extensions of existing products.

C++ developers use their skills and knowledge to solve and offer solutions to real-world problems. C++ developers usually hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or other related fields and some years of experience creating C++. They may also have some experience with algorithms/data structures knowledge. The developers are required to have the ability to resolve issues proactively and coordinate with other developers for cross-functional requirements implementation and tests.

What general advice would you give to a C++ Developer?

Craig Tidwell Ph.D.

Professor/Program Manager, Seminole State College of Florida

Students who are graduating with a degree in computer and information systems should focus on being lifelong learners. The most challenging, and sometimes frustrating, aspect of a career in information technology is that it is always changing. Employers are also looking for employees that can work well with others, especially in teams. Having a good understanding of the development and design process, and project management (DevOps) is a plus. Currently, there is a high demand for graduates with cloud and information security knowledge and skills.

ScoreC++ DeveloperUS Average

Salary

7.8

Avg. Salary $106,028

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

4.0

Growth Rate 21%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

4.0

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.17%

Asian 34.44%

Black or African American 4.43%

Hispanic or Latino 8.17%

Unknown 4.80%

White 48.00%

Gender

female 18.01%

male 81.99%

Age - 38

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 38

Stress Level

4.0

Stress level is moderate

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

7.9

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

6.6

Work Life balance is good

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a c++ developer

Explore c++ developer education requirements

Most common c++ developer degrees

Bachelor's

70.8 %

Master's

23.4 %

Associate

2.6 %

Start to develop specific c++ developer skills

Skills	Percentages
Python	12.12%
Java	11.01%
C	7.48%
C++	7.48%
JavaScript	5.01%

Complete relevant c++ developer training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New c++ developers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a c++ developer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real c++ developer resumes.

Research c++ developer duties and responsibilities

Manage code releases relate to this plug-in using SVN.
Implement a centralize configuration system for managing application settings, consisting of a desktop application with a WCF backend.
Involve in raw data collection of Nigeria stock exchange using Java API.
Modify C++ programs on back-end to communicate data with Java applications on front-end.

Prepare your c++ developer resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your c++ developer resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a c++ developer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable C++ Developer Resume templates

Build a professional C++ Developer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your C++ Developer resume.

Apply for c++ developer jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a c++ developer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How do c++ developers rate their job?