I've been offered a senior software engineering role maintaining a complex C++ codebase that has been around for several decades. I have more than 30 years of software development experience, including over 15 years with C++, although my more recent work has focused on C# and .NET. The position is based in the Midlands, and we're about to start discussing compensation. I haven't applied for C++ roles in quite a while, so I'm unsure what salary range would be reasonable. I want to avoid underselling my experience, but I also don't want to ask for an unrealistic figure. Does C++ or the specialized nature of maintaining a legacy product typically command a premium, or are factors such as location, industry, autonomy, and working arrangements more important? What range would be sensible to put forward in the UK?
2 Answers
The programming language itself usually has much less impact on salary than the sector, location, seniority, level of independence, and how difficult the role is to fill. Your decades of experience, ability to work independently, and responsibility for a complicated legacy system are probably stronger negotiating points than simply describing the job as a C++ position.
For a senior developer in London, roughly £75,000–£100,000 can be a realistic range, though that reflects the London market and a role requiring several days in the office. The Midlands will generally come in lower, and the industry, responsibilities, company size, and remote-work arrangements can make a significant difference.
That makes sense. I had wondered whether the relative scarcity of experienced C++ developers would create a noticeable premium, but I’m aware that automated salary estimates can be unreliable. I’ll focus more on the overall responsibilities and market rate.