What Does it Take to Be a Computer Programmer?
Job Description & Duties Create, modify, and test the code, forms, and script that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software developers or other individuals. May assist software developers by analyzing user needs and designing software solutions. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
A Day in the Life of a Computer Programmer
- Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.
- Train users on the use and function of computer programs.
- Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.
- Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.
- Develop Web sites.
- Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
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What a Computer Programmer Should Know
Below is a list of the skills most Computer Programmers say are important on the job.
Programming: Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Quality Control Analysis: Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Other Computer Programmer Job Titles
- Computer Game Programmer
- Object-Oriented Programmer
- SAS Programmer
- Computer Language Coder
- Operating System Programmer
Computer Programmer Employment Estimates
There were about 294,900 jobs for Computer Programmer in 2016 (in the United States). There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Computer Programmer. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 15,500 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Computer Programmer are Utah, Louisiana, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Ohio, Maine, or New Jersey. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Computer Programmer Average Salary
The salary for Computer Programmers ranges between about $48,790 and $134,630 a year.
Computer Programmers who work in Washington, District of Columbia, or California, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer Programmers in different U.S. states.
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $87,340 |
| Alaska | $86,080 |
| Arizona | $95,900 |
| Arkansas | $71,540 |
| California | $97,470 |
| Colorado | $94,750 |
| Connecticut | $93,370 |
| Delaware | $80,260 |
| District of Columbia | $105,200 |
| Florida | $78,890 |
| Georgia | $92,390 |
| Hawaii | $72,370 |
| Idaho | $76,500 |
| Illinois | $91,860 |
| Indiana | $80,850 |
| Iowa | $78,940 |
| Kansas | $75,780 |
| Kentucky | $72,190 |
| Louisiana | $77,450 |
| Maine | $84,830 |
| Maryland | $93,000 |
| Massachusetts | $95,380 |
| Michigan | $76,450 |
| Minnesota | $86,710 |
| Mississippi | $73,940 |
| Missouri | $76,530 |
| Montana | $94,480 |
| Nebraska | $76,540 |
| Nevada | $80,580 |
| New Hampshire | $75,680 |
| New Jersey | $85,750 |
| New Mexico | $72,770 |
| New York | $91,250 |
| North Carolina | $94,570 |
| North Dakota | $76,180 |
| Ohio | $74,930 |
| Oklahoma | $83,090 |
| Oregon | $79,470 |
| Pennsylvania | $85,800 |
| South Carolina | $81,940 |
| South Dakota | $57,060 |
| Tennessee | $82,400 |
| Texas | $91,970 |
| Utah | $83,700 |
| Vermont | $81,680 |
| Virginia | $94,470 |
| Washington | $126,920 |
| West Virginia | $83,160 |
| Wisconsin | $79,420 |
| Wyoming | $71,910 |
What Tools do Computer Programmers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer Programmers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Git
- Python
- jQuery
- React
- Microsoft Access
- Node.js
- MySQL
- Data entry software
- MongoDB
- SAP
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft SharePoint
How do I Become a Computer Programmer?
What education is needed to be a Computer Programmer?
How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Programmer?
Who Employs Computer Programmers?
The table below shows the approximate number of Computer Programmers employed by various industries.
You May Also Be Interested In…
Those interested in being a Computer Programmer may also be interested in:
Career changers with experience as a Computer Programmer sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
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