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Computer Programmer

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What is a Computer Programmer?

Computer Programmer Definition 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.

Daily Life Of a Computer Programmer

  • 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.
  • Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.
  • Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
  • Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.
  • Develop Web sites.
  • Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

Computer Programmer Needed Skills

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

Programming: Writing computer programs for various purposes.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

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.

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.

Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Types of Computer Programmer

  • Business Programmer
  • Game Programmer
  • SAS Programmer
  • Web Programmer
  • Web Applications Programmer

Job Opportunities for Computer Programmers

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 294,900 jobs in the United States for Computer Programmer. 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.

Do Computer Programmers Make A Lot Of Money?

The salary for Computer Programmers ranges between about $48,790 and $134,630 a year.

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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

Tools & Technologies Used by Computer Programmers

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Computer Programmers may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Git
  • Python
  • React
  • jQuery
  • Microsoft Access
  • Node.js
  • MySQL
  • Data entry software
  • MongoDB
  • SAP
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Project
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
  • Microsoft Visio

How do I Become a Computer Programmer?

What education is needed to be a Computer Programmer?

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What work experience do I need to become a Computer Programmer?

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Who Employs Computer Programmers?

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The table below shows the approximate number of Computer Programmers employed by various industries.

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Similar Careers

Those thinking about becoming a Computer Programmer might also be interested in the following careers:

Career changers with experience as a Computer Programmer sometimes find work in one of the following fields:

References:

Image Credit: Negative Space via CC0 License

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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