Computer Programmers
Additional Information
Duties
This is what computer programmers do on a daily basis:
- Use a range of programming languages, including C++ and Java.
- Incorporate new features into current ones.
- Check for flaws in programs and make the necessary changes to the problematic lines of code.
- To make software development easier, write and test code or processes.
Programmers and software developers work closely together, and in certain cases, their responsibilities overlap. It is possible for programmers to assume some of the responsibilities normally reserved for developers, such as creating programs, when such overlap exists.
Code libraries, which are collections of separate lines of code, are used by programmers to make their work easier and more productive. Using preexisting libraries or creating new ones is entirely up to them.
In addition, SaaS (software-as-a-service) applications, which are hosted online, may be written or used by programmers. Programmers normally have to re-write their programs for multiple operating systems like Windows or OS X, however SaaS apps run on all operating systems. Therefore, SaaS application developers may not have to rewrite as much code, allowing them to spend more time developing new apps.
Education
Bachelor's degrees in computer and information technology or a related discipline, such as mathematics, are often required for computer programmers. In certain cases, organizations will recruit programmers with specialized training or expertise in other fields. A computer-related degree may be supplemented by studies in a specialized subject, such as healthcare or accountancy. Because internships provide valuable work experience, companies may prefer to recruit individuals who have completed one or more of them.
While in school, most programmers learn computer languages. Computer science degrees, on the other hand, provide students with the necessary tools to learn new computer languages. Coding, testing, error-fixing, and a slew of other tasks that students will accomplish in the workplace are all practiced here.
Professional development seminars and continuing education workshops are available to computer programmers who want to stay abreast of current developments in the field of programming.
Registration, Certification, and Licenses.
Programmers can earn certifications in a variety of areas, such as specialized programming languages or vendor-specific software. Getting certified in the items you use is a requirement for several workplaces.
Advancement
Computer systems analysts can be programmers with a broader background in business. Some programmers go on to become full-fledged software developers as they gain expertise. Managerial roles are also an option for them. The profiles of computer systems analysts, software developers, and computer and information systems administrators provide more information.
Characteristics of Critical Importance
Analytical abilities. To write computer code, computer programmers must be able to comprehend a wide range of complicated instructions.
Skills in verbal and nonverbal communication. Programmers may work alone, but they must be able to communicate well with their colleagues and supervisors in order to coordinate the progress of a project as a whole.
Focused on specifics. Because even a little error may have a significant impact on the overall functionality of a computer program, computer programmers must pay particular attention to the code they produce, change, or test.
Possessing the ability to work through issues. The code is checked for bugs by programmers, and any that are found are fixed.
Pay
The median annual wage for computer programmers was $98,670 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $52,190, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $162,090.
Job Projections
Employment of computer programmers is projected to decline 10 percent from 2023 to 2033.