In most establishments, the demand for a computer programmer is skyrocketing every day as computer programmers are crucial in every business setup, especially those in the technological field. From modern-day cloth retailers to food vendors, even regular service providers look for savvy websites to show off their goods.
To understand the work description of a computer programmer and their salary expectations, you must first familiarize yourself with what a computer program is, programming definition, what computer programmers do, where computer programmers work, how much they earn and how you can become a computer programmer.
What is a Computer Program?
A computer program is a series of commands written in a language the computer understands, allowing for easier execution of the instructions. Just as humans communicate with their language, computers can perform tasks assigned in computer language.
A problem is identified, then a series of codes are written. The computer programmer can write these codes in varying computer programming languages but specific to the application. This is called the source program.
Following up on this, the compiler, as the name implies, compiles and derives the source program into machine language, and the interpreter then executes it. Different programming languages are being implemented for various purposes, and some principal examples are Python, C, C++, and Java. See the different career options for coders.
What do Computer Programmers do?
After having a firm idea of what computer programs are, it is easy to decipher what a programmer does.
A computer programmer writes, debugs, and test runs computer programs to execute functions in the required device. These programmers communicate with computers, programs, and other systems using specialized languages to get computers and their networks to accomplish a range of specific tasks. Learn more!
A programmer may be knowledgeable in all aspects ranging from data research to analysis, from the easy coding problems to the more complex coding challenges in diverse computer programming fields, or he could be proficient in just one aspect. However, the primary roles of a computer programmer are listed below:
- They develop new programs. Computer programmers work closely with software developers as they convert the designs made by the latter into workable code. The code may rewrite an existing source or something entirely new. They develop the code to exit as a functioning program. This is done on a variety of existing computer programming languages.
Sometimes these programmers play a vital role in the look and feel of a program, thereby acting as a web designer. A programmer uses critical problem-solving skills to develop a program that resolves an issue.
- Existing programs are updated and refined by computer programmers. It is very common to see applications constantly request an update from the user frequently. This is because new modifications are being added to make the program more efficient and user-friendly.
Your expectations depends on your skill level and education. Source: Pexels
This update may be a bug fix or an added functionality that may take a few hours, days, or months to achieve, depending on the intricacy of the modification.
- They check for flaws in programs and correct any erroneous lines of computer code. Doing this is very fundamental in achieving the goal of developing a good program. A program cannot function correctly if there is an error. A programmer spends time fishing out for mistakes and flaws in the syntax of the code and troubleshooting the application or program to make the necessary corrections to it.
- Different operating systems necessitate rewriting applications: Some applications and programs are limited to a particular operating system. Programmers frequently have to rewrite code in different languages for programs and applications to run on various operating systems, like Windows or OS X. However, some programs developed with Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) are compatible with both operating systems.
- They make good use of code libraries. A Programmer need not start to code a program from scratch. Code libraries, which are collections of pre-written codes specific to an operating system, exist to make coding easier. These categorized programming resources help computer programmers save time on program development while increasing the software's dependability.
- They strive to establish cybersecurity. Some programmers in the cybersecurity industry ensure that any harmful software is easily detected. They also assist in correcting any software that may be exposed to hacking. Programmers can create code that prevents data leakage and unauthorized access. The rate of cyber-attacks is rapidly rising, so also the demand for data security experts.
Where do Programmers Work?
Computer programmers can find work in various industries within and outside the country. These specialists work for both large corporations and small businesses.
In most scenarios, most programmers have full-time jobs. Computer programmers can also operate as freelancers, picking up gig in remote jobs online.
Also, due to the nature of a programmer's work, which involves more cognitive and critical thinking than physical exertion, a programmer can work from remote locations. Technological progress has allowed for this; hence they can easily carry out their tasks from the comfort of their homes.
How much do these Computer Programmers earn?
The Salary ranges of a Computer Programmer rely on various important factors. Some of them include:
- Education
- Certifications and qualifications
- Employer
- Region or Country
- Nature of job in question
- Supplementary skills
- Experience level
As of May 2020, the average yearly wage earned by computer programmers was $89,190. Half of the workers were paid more than that in a particular role, but the other half were paid less. The bottom 10% of these earners earned below $51,440, while the top 10% made above $146,050. This information is as compiled by the BLC - Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Furthermore, it is estimated that computer programming employment will decrease by 9% by 2029 as corporations continue to contract out jobs to experts from nations with cheaper wages. It is projected that over twenty thousand one hundred (20,100) will lose their jobs because of this.
Notwithstanding, a career in computer programming as an entry-level position can lead to more sophisticated and higher-paying positions. This means that the salary estimate will rise as the programmer gains more experience and expertise.
An entry-level programmer may begin with an average cumulative pay of $58,000, while a programmer with 20 years and more experience may earn over $86,000.
In What Cities Do Computer Programmers Earn the Most?
The table below contains a list of ten cities offering the highest paying jobs annually to computer programmers.
| City | Annual Salary Estimate |
| Burnaby, British Columbia | $65,009 |
| Winnipeg, Manitoba | $60,185 |
| Toronto, Ontario | $65,932 |
| Vancouver, British Columbia | $83,975 |
| Surrey, British Columbia | $76,050 |
| Montreal, Québec | $76,050 |
| Calgary, Alberta | $82,091 |
| St. John’s, Newfoundland | $55,000 |
How Can You Become a Computer Programmer?
If you’ve wanted nothing more than to learn how to program, then I bet you’re already excited to know what you need to qualify you to become a computer programmer.
All it takes is a degree in either field like Software Engineering, Software Programming, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Information Technology, or any similar discipline. These fields provide you with an understanding of what Computer programming entails.
Obtaining a bachelor's degree in any of these fields can take 2-4 years to complete. You can still move on to get a Bachelor's program. The program deals with advanced computer programming skills and knowledge via added projects, data analysis, and engineering lessons.
An associate degree combines essential computer and general education lessons. For a computer programming master's degree, you will need to have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Bagging these degrees would qualify one for at least entry-level employment.
You can achieve a degree by either online or on-campus learning. Just like the traditional mode of learning, on-campus learning allows for integrated social interactions between students and teachers. There is a structured schedule, and students can utilize various learning styles.
There is a set schedule to follow every week in the traditional learning mode, but you get to organize your schedule and work at your own pace in an online classroom.
Before venturing to gain a degree, initial knowledge of the course is critical. It makes you aware of the course structure and inspires a keen curiosity about the course. This is easily achieved on Superprof.
Superprof is a community of 17.7 million teachers available in 38 countries where students have access to over a thousand courses to choose from.
It provides a one-on-one learning environment between a student and a tutor, fostering a deeper understanding of the course. You can define your schedule and work with what suits you and your tutor.
It is even accessible to professional Computer programmers who can tutor students and earn money while on the job. Superprof creates a balanced learning environment where the tutors are competent, the course outline up-to-date, and assimilation is guaranteed.
A computer programming degree is not limited to its educational prospects, and it could establish you for promising job opportunities and a chance to solve problems. Because programming languages are continuously changing and evolving, programmers must continue to learn about computer programming.
See how to start your career as a coder.
The salary of a computer programmer may look enticing from a mere glance, but it demands consistency, hard work, and experience to scale it up.
Want to step into the world of programming? Read this guide.
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