what is a programmer?
Whenever you go online or use a mobile app, you can thank a programmer. Computer programmers develop software with coding languages, such as HTML, Ruby, CSS and Python. You'll also update and maintain software to keep programs active.
Coding or programming languages are like math problems with virtually no room for error. When software breaks down, you'll review the code to find the issue, which is sometimes a single digit out of place. Other times, the site is so outdated that you have to overhaul the back end. Some languages are so obsolete that the software will crash if you don't adapt the code to modern languages.
Likewise, you rewrite code to make programs compatible with different operating systems. Each system requires a unique programming language. Instead of telling customers to buy the right system, companies tailor their products to their clients.
Since you're the coding expert, you'll also train others and write technical guides. Consumers and technology experts use your technical guides to run programs correctly and make alterations without crashing the system. Similarly, you'll answer your clients' questions whenever they're stuck.
Would working as a programmer suit your computer skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a programmer role.
view jobs near youaverage programmer salary
On average, programmers made a median salary of $93,000 in 2021. Salaries ranged from $47,560 to $155,240 per year, with the software publishing industry topping the charts. Finance and insurance programmers made about $99,260, while manufacturing programmers made $98,320 per year.
Entry-level jobs often pay less but provide valuable education, especially if your company has a mentorship program. As you gain experience, you could move to increasingly prestigious industries until you make a six-figure salary. Likewise, earning programming certifications helps you secure better jobs.
While you could work on an hourly basis at first, many programmers have salaried jobs. Salary employees make a set amount no matter how many hours they work. This provides more flexibility but could leave you underpaid if you frequently work overtime.
Since most programmers work full time, you can expect health insurance, retirement plans, paid sick days and other benefits. Weigh the benefits alongside the salary as you choose a job. A position could offer a lower salary but better health insurance or more vacation time.
Wondering what you can earn as a programmer? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a programmer is.
types of programmer
Software programmers build various applications on your computer: photo editors, music libraries, movie makers, word processors, firewalls, games and more. Similarly, mobile programmers make apps for smartphones and tablets. As a programmer, you'll design clean, user-friendly apps with educational and entertaining features.
If you enjoy video games, become a game programmer who works with gaming engines, such as Unity and Blender. You can also develop websites, including online stores, blogs, business sites, and social media platforms, with front-end and back-end programming. Other programmers work with databases, system hardware, and artificial intelligence (AI).
working as a programmer
Bring software designs to life when you become a programmer. Here's a look at the qualifications you'll need.
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programmer job description
While software developers manage and design projects, programmers work alongside them to code, debug and test the software. Software developers have some coding knowledge, but your expertise brings the project together. You'll ensure that the product is ready to go once the launch date arrives.
For new projects, you'll write code from scratch. Software has a lot of bugs early on, but you'll review your code, correct mistakes and create a cohesive project that others can update later. If you can't find the issue, you'll run tests until your program locates the error. These setbacks teach you about common problems and how to avoid them next time.
Programmers also update existing software to make it safer, cleaner and easier to use. Have you ever noticed that you need to update mobile apps periodically? A programmer likely refreshed the interface, repaired security holes or upgraded the code. Programmers stay on top of the latest technologies, such as software as a service (SaaS) and the internet of things (IOT). Learning about emerging tech enables you to write new code and update obsolete software.
Cybersecurity programmers write and install code that protects systems from viruses, hackers and data breaches. A single incident can force companies to shut down from expenses and public backlash. You'll secure the program as much as possible so that users can safely input their data. When you learn about a new cyberattack method, you'll adjust the code to keep hackers out.
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programmer work environment
Programmers can work from home since you mostly operate online. You'll interact with clients, write and review code and submit your work through online platforms. Periodically, you'll talk face-to-face via video calls. Some employers provide the technology that you need to work at home, including computers, hardware, and headsets.
However, some employers prefer their programmers to work in person. You'll operate in an office setting with all the software and hardware that you need for your projects. For some, in-person communication is easier than emails, phone calls, and video chats. You can also join meetings and give presentations.
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who are your colleagues?
Mainly, programmers work with software engineers and developers to write, update and fine-tune their code. Your colleagues may include programmers with different specialties, such as hardware and mobile apps, plus Ruby, JavaScript, Python and other languages. Engineers who work with the cloud, network security, machine learning and other technologies could join your team. If you impress your employer, you might land a supervisor position. Likewise, you'll work with the businesses that hired you to build their software.
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work schedule
Programmers generally work full time for 40 hours a week. Part-time programmers are rare because these projects require experience and dedication. Typically, you'll have regular office hours during the week, leaving each day around 5:00 or 6:00 pm. If you work from home, you'll have more flexibility, but you'll still operate full time during office hours.
Typically, programmers get evenings and weekends off, but a particularly challenging project might require you to work overtime. A business might hire you temporarily to ease the workload on teammates during a busy season. Temporary jobs usually come with a lot of hours and may lead to something permanent if it's a good fit.
Most businesses offer paid vacation time, usually a week or two. You might receive three or more weeks once you've stayed with the company for a certain number of years. You can also expect holidays off and paid sick leave.
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job outlook for programmers
Programmers have a positive job outlook because they perform one of the world's most essential tasks. Without you, new software wouldn't exist, and obsolete software would fall apart. You can potentially find jobs with hundreds of employers in your area and gain experience by trying different projects.
Switching industries can come with a pay raise, sometimes $20,000 per year or more. Plus, if you work from home, you won't have to move to another city with more prestigious jobs. You can also negotiate for a higher salary once you've gained more education and experience.
If you want to try another field, programmers have several options because the skills tend to overlap. For example, you could become a JavaScript or Python developer because you've already worked with those languages. Other related positions include software development architects, SQL-server database administrators and full-stack web developers.
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benefits of working for randstad as a programmer
Working through Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- being paid weekly
- flexibility
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
Want a permanent contract? But you wonder why it would be interesting for you to work with a staffing company? A temporary job as a programmer is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
programmer skills and education
Most programmers need a bachelor's degree in math, computer science, programming languages or a related field. Earning a master's degree or doctorate afterward will deepen your knowledge, making you a sought-after expert. You can supplement your education with certificates, such as an online web developer certificate, that you receive after graduating.
Internships don't always come with a paycheck, but they add invaluable hands-on experience to your resume. You might even land a job in the company after you graduate college. Plus, you'll learn alongside a mentor with years of experience who could connect you with other professionals.
Certifications on your resume show employers that you've mastered a skill. Common programmer certifications include:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
- Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC-1)
- Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP)
- AWS Certified Developer
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)
To earn your certifications, you'll have to pay a fee and pass exams. Many programs offer online study guides so that you can learn about the material before scheduling your exam. Earning a certification can take months on top of your existing education and cost hundreds of dollars.
skills and competencies
Programmers are patient and detail-oriented. You'll have situations where you spend hours working on a code only to find an error that makes the software unusable. Fortunately, a series of logical steps is all you need to address the issue. You'll run tests, study each line of code and make changes until the program works again.
You'll also need to retain extensive amounts of knowledge. Successful programmers can write and understand multiple languages, adding that to their hardware, software and web development skills. The process is like learning foreign languages: You'll find similarities, but each programming language has its own rules.
Sometimes, programmers work in tense environments. You'll need a positive attitude and strong communication skills to stay strong under pressure. When colleagues follow your example, you'll complete the project on time without scrambling after the deadline. Plus, your friendly attitude might qualify you for mentorship roles.
Programmers know how to manage their time and stick to the schedule. Occasionally, you step back to focus and return to the project later, but you never procrastinate. If an incident strikes, you're honest with your client about the deadline change. They count on you to get back on track and potentially submit the code earlier than expected.
FAQs about working as a programmer
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about programmers.
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what's the difference between programmers and software developers?
Some software developers start out as programmers and vice versa. Software developers have coding skills, but they mainly focus on design and management while you take care of the extensive coding. You'll also debug, troubleshoot and polish the code so that the project stays on schedule.
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how many certifications do programmers need?
You don't need a specific number of certifications, but each one provides access to new job opportunities. However, certifications cost hundreds of dollars and require several months of work, so you won't be able to earn several in one year. Find certifications for subjects that you want to specialize in, maximizing your investment.
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do programmers need a bachelor's degree?
Employers who accept only an associate degree are rare. Most programmers need a bachelor's degree because your job requires extensive computing, technology and coding knowledge. You can earn certifications during your program for an extra boost in the job market.
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can programmers earn six figures?
You can earn six figures if you enter the right industry, bulk up your resume and sharpen your negotiation tactics. Most programmers don't start out making $100,000 a year—you might have to settle for $50,000 or less before major clients show interest. If you don't have time for a master's degree, supplement your education with certifications.
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how do programmers increase their salaries?
Gaining experience and education increases your salary. A first-year programmer with a bachelor's doesn't have much leverage, but a 10-year veteran programmer with a master's degree could negotiate for a higher salary. You can also switch to industries that offer six-figure salaries.
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how do I find a job as a programmer?
Applying for a programmer job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our programmer jobs for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV. If you do not have a resume, no worries. Just check out our resume builder. This state-of-the-art tool will help you to create your own resume. Need help with your application? Check out all our job-hunting tips!
