Computer Programmer: Career Guide

What does a Computer Programmer do?

Computer programmers write and test code for software applications. You translate designs into executable programs, troubleshoot issues, and work with development teams to create user-friendly software solutions.

Key duties & responsibilities

Computer Programmers in the IT & Development field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Write and test code for new software programs and applications.
• Update and expand existing programs.
• Debug programs by testing for and fixing errors.
• Use code libraries, which are collections of independent lines of code, to simplify the writing.
• Review code written by other programmers and work collaboratively in a team setting.
• Develop and deploy computer applications.
• Execute code builds to test and production environments.
• Fix bugs in existing code and improve its performance.

How to become a Computer Programmer

Launching a career as a Computer Programmer requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.
• Knowledge of multiple programming languages, including Python, Java, and C#.
• Strong understanding of the software development lifecycle.
• Experience with database management and proper system design.
• Good communication skills to collaborate with other developers and technical team members.
• Ability to learn quickly and apply new skills effectively.

Requirements & skills

• Detail-oriented mindset with a high degree of accuracy in coding and review.
• Strong analytical skills for effective problem-solving.
• Good organizational skills to handle multiple projects at once and meet deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration and client interaction.
• Continuous learning to keep up-to-date with fast-changing programming tools and environments.

Computer Programmer salary guide

Wondering what Computer Programmers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

Job	Branch	Avg. US salary
Computer Programmer	IT & Development	90,780 USD

The average salary for a Computer Programmer in the U.S. is approximately $90,780 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Computer Programmers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Computer Programmer salary career steps

Level	Experience	Avg. salary per year
Entry Level	0-2 years	$68,085
Mid Level	3-5 years	$81,702
Experienced	6-10 years	$90,780
Senior	11+ years	$99,858
Veteran	20+ years	$113,475

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Payscale, expert interviews

How to advance your career

Computer Programmers can progress to roles such as Senior Programmer, Software Developer or Software Engineer. Many programmers also specialize in specific programming fields, such as web development, mobile application development, or systems programming, and eventually take on project management roles in IT departments.

Typical work environment

Computer Programmers typically work in offices, particularly in the tech industry, although remote work is becoming increasingly common. They usually work full-time, but long hours can be common, especially when dealing with deadlines or technical issues. The role requires sitting and concentrating for long periods, often requiring intense focus while coding or debugging.