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Application Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled Field Application Engineer (FAE) to serve as the critical technical liaison between our key customers in the smartphone industry and our back-end ...

Join KEYENCE as a Field Application Engineer Training Classes Begins January or July 2027 Multiple U.S. Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ...

Join KEYENCE as a Field Application Engineer Training Classes Begins January or July 2027 Multiple U.S. Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ...

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Application Programmer information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$87.8K

$147K

How much do application programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for application programmer in California is $87,782.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,700.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an application programmer?

To thrive as an Application Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages (such as Java, C#, or Python), problem-solving skills, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems (like Git), and frameworks relevant to the application domain is typically required. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building robust, maintainable software solutions that meet user needs and adapt to evolving technology.

What does an application programmer do?

An application programmer designs, develops, tests, and maintains software applications based on user requirements. They typically use programming languages like Java, C++, or Python and work with development tools and frameworks to create functional software solutions. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of software development life cycles are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Application Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectApplication ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related field, programming certificationsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, software engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDevelops specific applications, often within a team or projectDesigns, develops, and maintains software solutions, broader scope
Employer & Industry UsageIT companies, software firms, tech departmentsTech companies, startups, enterprise organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding specific programming roles, job requirementsBroader software development careers, skill differences

Application Programmers focus on coding and implementing specific applications based on detailed requirements. Software Developers have a broader role, encompassing designing, coding, testing, and maintaining entire software solutions. While both roles require programming skills and similar educational backgrounds, Software Developers typically handle a wider scope of projects and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges an application programmer may face when working on a large-scale software project?

Application Programmers working on large-scale software projects often encounter challenges such as integrating new features into existing codebases, managing dependencies, and ensuring code quality across multiple team members. Effective communication with other developers, testers, and project managers is crucial to keep the project on track and resolve issues quickly. Additionally, adapting to changing project requirements and troubleshooting complex bugs are common aspects of the role. Maintaining thorough documentation and following best practices can help mitigate these challenges and ensure project success.
What are popular job titles related to Application Programmer jobs in California? For Application Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Application Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Application Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Application Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,782 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Mainframe Application Programmer

West Advanced Technologies (WATI)

Downey, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Mainframe Application Programmer
Downey, CA
12+ months
Need locals - Hybrid Role
Skills Required:
The Senior Application Programmer for Mainframe Systems will possess knowledge and experience in applications software development principles and methods sufficient to participate in the design, development, testing and implementation of new or modified applications software; organization's operational environment; software design principles, methods and approaches; principles, methods and procedures for designing, developing, optimizing and integrating new and/or reusable systems components; pertinent government regulations; infrastructure requirements, database management principles and methodologies, including data structures, data modeling, data warehousing and transaction processing; functionality and operability of the current operating environment; systems engineering concepts and factors such as structured design, supportability, reliability, scalability and maintainability; optimization concepts and methods; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work; and speak and write effectively and prepare effective reports.
Must have a minimum of seven (7) years of experience in electronic data processing systems design and programming with one or more of the software set forth below. LANGUAGES: COBOL, Natural/ SuperNatural, IMS/DB/DC, DB2/SQL, Assembler, SAS, CICS; MF FOCUS; TOOLS/UTILITIES: MVS JCL, MVS TSO/ISPF, IBM OPTIM, FILE Manager, SPUFI, ICEMAN/ICETOOLS, SORT, VSAM, CLIST, FTP, DYL260/280, CA Gen (CoolGen), CA Endevor, CA Spool, CA OM Web Viewer, IBM WebSphere, Debugger, N2O; DATABASES: DB2, IMS, ADABAS, FOCUS; OS: z/OS; OTHER: EntireX, ASP, HTML, Cloverleaf.
Bachelor's degree in an IT-related or Computer Science field.
Experience Preferred:
Experience with IMS/COBOL programming in a mainframe environment.
Regards
Naresh Damagalla
West Advanced Technologies, Inc
E: naresh.d@wati.com D: 279-666-5838
Serving government agencies for 22 Years
www.wati.com