The code for software applications and operating systems are written by a computer programmer. Following the design of a computer program, a programmer develops code that turns the design into a set of instructions that a computer can understand. They seek for errors in the program and then rewrite it till it is error-free. The programmer continues to assess current programs, making necessary changes and adjustments.
Quick Facts
In 2016, the median yearly pay for computer programmers was $79,840.
In 2014, over 329,000 people worked in this field.
The majority of them worked for software development and testing companies. Others worked for software companies, as well as banking and insurance firms.
The majority of jobs are full-time.
This is excellent employment for those who prefer to work alone.
This occupation has a bleak job outlook. Many jobs will be outsourced to countries with lower wages than the United States, resulting in job losses through 2024.
Roles and Responsibilities
Do you have any idea what a computer programmer does for a living? On Indeed.com, job adverts for computer programmers included the following common responsibilities:
- "Develop, test, and implement computer programs on a variety of computer platforms and operating systems."
- "Assist in the creation of a new web-based information system (IS)"
- "Perform all actions required for automated computer system definition, design, building, testing, and implementation."
- "Review programs on a regular basis and make any necessary improvements to verify that they are running properly."
- "Confirm program operation by running tests and making changes to the program sequence and/or codes."
- "Support coding efforts by creating and publishing technical diagrams."
- "Integrate new features into current applications."
How to Become a Computer Programmer
A bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, or information systems will improve your chances of landing a career as a computer programmer. Some firms will recruit you if you have a bachelor's degree in a topic other than computer science, such as accounting, finance, or business. With an associate's degree in computer science, you could even be able to find a job.
Internships should be done while you are in school because experience is just as valuable as a degree in this industry. Once you've started working in the sector, you'll need to learn new programming languages to maintain your abilities up to date. Certifications in a variety of programming languages may be useful as well.
Soft Skills Needed to Succeed
In addition to technical abilities gained through formal training and experience, the soft skills listed below will assist you in achieving success in this field:
Comprehension of Written Instructions: You must be able to comprehend written instructions.
Programmers must be able to recognize and solve difficulties.
When solving problems and making decisions, you should be able to weigh all of your options in order to select the best one.
Active Listening: This skill allows you to understand what your teammates are saying.
Attention to Detail and Troubleshooting: You must be able to spot and correct minor errors in code.
How to Gauge Whether This Career Is a Good Fit for You
Your hobbies, personality type, and work-related values are all aspects that will determine whether or not you are a good fit for being a computer programmer. People with the following characteristics are good candidates for this job:
ICR (Holland Code): Interests (Investigative, Conventional, Realistic)
ENTJ, INTJ, INTP, ISTJ, ISTP (Myers Briggs Personality Type Indicator [MBTI]) ENTJ, INTJ, INTP, ISTJ, ISTP (Myers Briggs Personality Type Indicator [MBTI]) ENTJ, INTJ, INTP, ISTJ,
Achievement, Working Conditions, and Independence are all work-related values.
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Programmer