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Life As a Computer Programmer

Occupation Description 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.

Life As a Computer Programmer: What Do They Do?

  • Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
  • Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
  • Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.
  • Train subordinates in programming and program coding.
  • Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.
  • Train users on the use and function of computer programs.

What Every Computer Programmer Should Know

Computer Programmers state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

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.

Types of Computer Programmer Jobs

  • Engineering Programmer
  • Computer Programmer
  • Computer Game Programmer
  • Java Developer
  • Software Programmer

Are There Job Opportunities for Computer Programmers?

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. There will be an estimated 15,500 positions for Computer Programmer per year.

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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.

How Much Does a Computer Programmer Make?

The typical yearly salary for Computer Programmers is somewhere between $48,790 and $134,630.

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Computer Programmers who work in Washington, District of Columbia, or California, make the highest salaries.

How much do Computer Programmers make in each U.S. state?

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

Becoming a Computer Programmer

What kind of Computer Programmer requirements are there?

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Those interested in being a Computer Programmer may also be interested in:

Those who work as a Computer Programmer sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:

References:

Image Credit: Negative Space via CC0 License

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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