what is a programmer?
Whenever you use a mobile app or go online to browse the web, you can thank a programmer. Computer programmers develop software with various coding languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Ruby and Python. They also update and maintain software to keep programs active.
Coding or programming languages are like math problems with no room for error. As a programmer, when software breaks down, you review the code to find the issue, which is sometimes only a single digit out of place. Other times, the site is so outdated that you must overhaul the entire front or back end. Some languages become obsolete, and 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 meet the needs of their clients.
Since you're the coding expert, you 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 answer your clients' questions whenever they're stuck.
Would working as a programmer suit your interest in coding and mastery of programming languages? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a programmer role.
programmer jobsaverage programmer salary
According to Job Bank, programmers take home $34.58 per hour or $67,432 per year. In an entry-level position, you earn a salary of $51,675 annually. Your skills improve with years of experience and after gaining additional qualifications. Experienced programmers make up to $123,491 yearly.
Entry-level programmers earn lower hourly rates, but the job provides great opportunities to learn new skills and improve your coding abilities. You can increase your salary expectations by gaining additional certifications or attending boot camps to improve your knowledge of programming languages.
The location also affects your earnings and career growth opportunities. Some provinces or territories have innovation and technology hubs with a high demand for programmers. Hence, they are likely to pay higher salaries compared to other regions.
types of programmers
Programmers can specialize in creating specific types of applications or systems. The areas of specialization include:
- software programming: software programmers build various applications that run 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.
- game programming: If you enjoy video games, become a game programmer who works with gaming engines such as Unity and Blender. You can also develop websites with front-end and back-end programming, including online stores, blogs, business sites and social media platforms. Other programmers work with databases, system hardware and artificial intelligence (AI).
working as a programmer
As a programmer, you use your coding skills to create software and applications. Check out the daily duties and tasks associated with the role.
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what does a programmer do?
Some of the tasks and duties of programmers include:
- working with developers: while 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 ensure that the product is ready to go once the launch date arrives.
- writing code: for new projects, you write code from scratch. Since the software has a lot of bugs early on, you review your code, correct mistakes, and create a cohesive project that others can update later. If you can't find the issue, run tests until your program locates the error. These setbacks teach you about common problems and how to avoid them next time.
- updating existing software: as a programmer, you 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.
- protecting systems from threats: as a cybersecurity programmer, you write and install code that protects systems from viruses, hackers and data breaches. A single incident can force companies to shut down due to loss of expenses or public backlash. You secure programs as much as possible for users, enabling them to safely input their data. When you learn about a new cyberattack method, you adjust the code to keep hackers out.
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work environment of a programmer
As a programmer, you 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 talk face-to-face via video calls. Some employers provide the technology 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 you need for your projects. For some, in-person communication is easier than emails, phone calls and video chats. You also join meetings and give presentations.
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who are your colleagues?
As a programmer, you work alongside diverse tech professionals, including developers, software engineers and software developers. You assist web developers, scrum masters and data engineers. You also work alongside project managers and data analysts, assisting them in the creation of data modelling and forecasting tools as well as various other projects.
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programmer 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 have regular office hours during the week, finishing your shift 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.
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career opportunities as a programmer
Programmers have a positive job outlook and high demand because they perform one of the world's most essential tasks. Without programmers, new software wouldn't exist, and obsolete software would fall apart. You can find jobs with hundreds of employers in your area and gain experience by trying different projects.
Switching industries can come with a pay raise. Plus, if you work from home, you won't have to move to another city with more prestigious jobs.
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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advantages of finding a job as a programmer through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
programmer skills and education
If you want to become a programmer, you require the following educational qualifications:
- bachelor’s degree: to work as a programmer in Canada, you require a college diploma or a degree in computer science (CS) or computer engineering. You can also pursue a degree in other related fields with programming components.
- work experience: you require extensive experience to work as a programmer. You gain programming skills through boot camps and internship opportunities. CS certifications can improve your programming skills and expand your career prospects. Some specializations are regulated in specific provinces in Canada. For instance, programming in engineering and scientific applications, like becoming a computer numerical control (CNC) programmer, is regulated in Ontario by the Ontario College of Trades.
competencies and characteristics of programmers
Programmers require the following skills to excel:
- detail-oriented skills: programmers are patient and detail-oriented. You have situations where you spend hours working on 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 also run tests, study each line of code, and make changes until the program works again.
- ability to master computer languages: as a programmer, it is important 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; there are similarities, but each programming language has its own syntax and rules.
- positive attitude: sometimes, programmers work in fast-paced and intense environments. You require a positive attitude and strong communication skills to stay strong under pressure. Since your colleagues follow your example, completing the project on time without scrambling after the deadline is crucial. Plus, your friendly attitude might qualify you for mentorship roles.
- time management skills: 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 submit the code earlier than expected.
FAQs
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a programmer.
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is programming a good career?
With the surge of online shopping, working from home and the general reliance on the internet, qualified computer programmers are in high demand in Canada. Due to the growing demand for programmers, you are guaranteed a lucrative salary and amazing opportunities for career growth.
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how much do programmers make?
The average salary of a programmer in Canada is $67,432 annually. In an entry-level position, you start with a salary of $51,675 per year because of your minimal experience and qualifications. With more experience and additional qualifications, you receive a higher salary of over $123,491 yearly.
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what does a programmer do?
As a programmer, you write the code to design or modify computer software and applications, ensuring they function properly. You use your coding skills to turn the designs created by software engineers or developers into instructions that the computer can understand. That means you write and test code or scripts to ensure the applications perform the desired functions.
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what do you need to become a programmer?
To work as a programmer, you require a bachelor’s degree or college diploma in computer engineering or computer science. Learn diverse programming languages, or specialize in coding skills relevant to your area of interest. For instance, some programmers specialize in coding skills for engineering and scientific applications.
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is programming a stressful job?
Coding requires knowledge of multiple programming languages and may involve strict deadlines or endless modifications to ensure the code works perfectly. However, with good time management skills and mastering programming languages, you will lower your stress levels.
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how do I find a job as a programmer?
Finding a job near you as a programmer is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
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