Computer Programmer Job Description and Responsibilities

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:33:47 EST

Computer programmers are responsible for writing thedetailed instructions that a computer follows, These instructions, input incomputer language, are known as computer programs or software.

Programmers develop software used for everything fromhandling hotel reservations to playing computer games. Some work as programmer-analysts,handling the tasks of both the systems analyst and the programmer. Others mayalso work directly with experts in specific fields developing programs forsoftware companies.

There are two different types of computer programmers.Systems programmers maintain software that controls the entire computer systemwhile application programmers write programs that handle specific tasks. Inmany instances systems programmers are called in to assist applicationprogrammers with specific programming problems.

Computer programmers work in special computer languagessuch as BASIC, COBOL, C, Fourth-Generation Languages (4GL), FORTRAN, PASCAL C,DOS, or Artificial Intelligence (At). Typically, each language is used fordifferent kinds of applications. COBOL, for example, is traditionally used whenwriting business programs.

Once the programmer has written the desired program,the individual is responsible for testing it to make sure that it runsproperty. The process of going over each set of instructions until the programruns error free is called debugging. This is one of the more challenging andtime-consuming tasks for a programmer.

The individual may also write instructions to be usedby the operator who will be running the program. In some cases, computer programmersmay write instruction manuals.

Computer programmers are responsible to the senior orlead computer programmer.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Computer programmers may work full or part time. Theycan also work on a consulting or temporary basis for specific projects.Employment settings include:

Software companies, Research organizations, Robotmanufacturers, Corporate industry, Data processing services, Business services,Banks, Computer manufacturers, Educational institutions and Machinery andequipment wholesalers

Expanding Opportunitiesfor the 21st Century

The most employable computer programmers will be thosewith a college education who are familiar with a variety of programming andoperating languages.

The demand for computer programmers will increase inthe future as a result of the automation of almost every industry. Two areasthat are growing especially quickly are data communications and computernetworking.

EARNINGS

Computer programmers earn from $20,000 to $60,000 plus.Factors affecting earnings include the education, experience, andresponsibilities of the individual as well as the specific employment situationand location.

The more education and experience, the higher theearnings will be. Those just entering the field may earn between $20,000 and$23,000. With more experience, programmers can earn between $25,000 and $60,000or more.

Also, systems programmers generally earn more thanapplication programmers.

ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Individuals starting out as junior programmers may,with experience and education, become senior programmers. They can also obtainmanagerial, administrative, or supervisory positions such as lead programmer.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

A four-year college degree in computer science,computer programming, or information science is usually preferred but is notmandatory. Other degrees may be in engineering, physical science, or math.Though not mandatory, the degree may be necessary for advancement.

Many individuals learn computer programming in highschool or vocational-technical school. Others choose degree programs intwo-year or four-year colleges,

Some employers who hire entry-level programmers offertraining classes. Most programmers continue their education throughout theircareer because of constantly changing technology.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Individuals usually work under close supervision untilthey obtain adequate experience. While not always a requirement, certificationis available. Individuals who are college graduates with little or noexperience in the field can be certified as assistant computer programmers.Senior programmers can receive a certificate in computer programming.

The credentialing process is handled by the Institutefor Certification of Computer Professionals. In order to obtain the assistantcredential, individuals must take an examination. Senior programmers must haveexperience in addition to passing a core examination plus two more exams inspecialty areas. Credential holders may be preferred for some positions as itis an indication of experience and professional competency.

FORADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Individuals interested in learning moreabout careers in computer programming can contact the Association of ComputerProgrammers and Analysts (ACPA), the Association for Computing Machinery,Special Interest Group on Programming Languages, (SIGPL), the Data ProcessingManagement Association (DPMA), the Microcomputer Software Association (MSA),and the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals (ICCP).

TIPS

Look in computer magazines for the names and addressesof major software firms. Send your resume and a short cover letter requestingan interview.

Jobs are often advertised in the classifieds under theheadings "Computers," "Computer Programmer," "SystemsProgrammer," "Applications Programmer," "SoftwareDesigner," "Software Programmer," "Scientific Programmer,"etc.

Job openings are advertised in the trade journals ofmany industries.

Many jobs are available in federal or state governmentin this field. Contact your state or federal employment service forinformation.

TRCB.com RSS Feed

Computer Programmer Job Description and Responsibilities