No, it shouldn't but it depends. You need to find the right position for you, if possible find a company where support engineers have moved on to software engi

No, it shouldn't but it depends. You need to find the right position for you, if possible find a company where support engineers have moved on to software engineering roles. If you are rusty, you'll want a role that will give you the ability to develop the skills you're lacking to get a SWE role. There are a lot of different things support engineers do and it will vary wildly between companies. A bulk in my experience are very weak on the engineering side, so it may help to join as an early support engineer on a team that will allow you to have some autonomy. Edit: Also consider how much time it will take you to become a SWE if you're working full time, versus how long it would take if you dedicated yourself to brushing up on skills and interview prep full time.