Engineers make plans that others implement. The engineer designs the foundation and structure for a building. Perhaps there are some IT professionals who design systems for others to implement, never getting involved in the nitty-gritty of actually making the object.

Software developers are technicians, analogous to steelworkers, who build things with their hands. Both tinker and collaborate with others to create things.

Other commenters are correct that one cannot legally call oneself an "engineer" without implying the title "Professional Engineer", which requires passing the PE Exam in a chosen specialty and maintaining the license through continuing education.