Why You Should Become a C# Technical Lead

If you are already very good with computer software and love to program, then why not take your experience and become a technical lead? You will be able to use all the experience you have gained doing the things you love and take on a more supervisory role helping others gain their own experience. C# technical leads often work with a small group of around three programmers whom they manage and work with to complete projects. C# technical leads generally work in a more flexible atmosphere than other programmers, where they have a bit more control over projects and are able to let their creative side have more domain than when they were in a lower position and had to follow strict rules and guidelines.

Education

Candidates for good C# technical lead positions will need to have solid education backgrounds in computer science, with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the field, but preferably a master’s degree. Having a degree is not the only battle; strong candidates need to have excelled academically. Having taken courses in management and/or applications is also a strong bonus.



Necessary Skills

Excellent software design skills are an obvious must. However, analytical skills are just as important. C# technical leads need to be proficient not only in programming software, but in deducing and solving problems that arise in software. To be truly effective in this position, technical leads must be fluent in several coding languages, specifically C#, which goes hand in hand with C++ and C. Technical leads should also have experience with Java and should be familiar with .NET applications.

In addition to these things, good technical leads must be able to learn quickly, think creatively, adapt to changing environments, multi-task, lead effectively, and communicate clearly. Leads should be prepared to work both in a team and individually, in both structured and less-structured environments.

Training and Experience

There are some certifications available beyond a formal degree which programmers may earn in order to advance their careers. There are certifications available in C# which will give valuable training and experience to a programmer who has the goal of advancing to a technical lead position. In addition to training and education, experience is possibly the most valuable asset a programmer can have on his or her side. Technical lead positions may require five years of experience or more before allowing a programmer to take on this kind of responsibility. The more experience one has and the more programming languages one is fluent in, the more valuable one can be to a company.

Outlook and Compensation

The outlook for technical leads is good because technology continues to expand at an amazing rate and the need for people to handle and help develop that remains high. Compensation can range from around $20–$30 per hour to a salary of as much as $90,000–$100,000 a year. Salaried technical leads may earn added benefits of profit sharing or stocks, as well as 401(k) packages.

Conclusion

If you have already been working in this field as a C# programmer, or have even just been a programmer of similar coding languages, then you may be able to advance your career to become a C# technical lead. If you are good with people, communicate effectively, have the necessary experience, and are motivated to lead, this could be the perfect position to advance to.