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.
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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.
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
- Entry Level0-2 years $68,085
- Mid Level3-5 years $81,702
- Experienced6-10 years $90,780
- Senior11+ years $99,858
- Veteran20+ years $113,475
Based on public data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Payscale. Career-level figures are estimates derived from the national average; actual pay varies by employer, region and experience.
How much can you earn as a Computer Programmer?
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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.
About this profile
This profile for a Computer Programmer is based on public sources such as the BLS and Payscale and was structured with the help of AI. It is intended as a general orientation — duties, requirements and salaries can differ by employer, country and experience.
