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Lead Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NTT DATA Services

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site +1

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

NTT DATA Services

Lead Systems Programmer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$63K - $94K/yr

We are currently seeking a Lead Systems Programmer to join our team in Alpharetta, Georgia (US-GA), United States (US). Role Responsibilities: * Design, implement, and maintain Windows Server ...

Flex Ltd

Machine Programing Lead

Dallas, TX · On-site

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Machine Programing Lead is responsible for leading a team ... High School Diploma or equivalent * 5+ years experience as a CNC programmer or machinist with AP100 ...

Flex

Machine Programing Lead

Dallas, TX · On-site

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Machine Programing Lead is responsible for leading a team ... High School Diploma or equivalent * 5+ years experience as a CNC programmer or machinist with AP100 ...

Sidram Technologies

Programmer/Analyst: IV (Lead)/ Lead Workday Financials Engineer Location - Any HNB Footprint Contract to Hire We are seeking a Senior / Lead Workday Financials Engineer for a contract-to-hire ...

Image Engineering

Lighting & Special Effects Programmer

MD · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Serve as the lead programmer and/or designer for assigned projects from concept development through show execution. * Create and maintain show files using GrandMA, Pangolin Beyond, Depence, and other ...

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Lead Programmer information

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How much do lead programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead programmer in the United States is $54.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.27 and $68.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like machine learning, AI, or working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually through base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and often leadership roles or specialized expertise in the industry.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In a development context, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of software engineers or developers, with L1 being entry-level and L4 being senior or lead roles. These levels often indicate experience, responsibility, and skill set, and are used by organizations to structure career progression and compensation. For a Lead Programmer, understanding these levels helps in assessing team structure and growth opportunities.

How does a Lead Programmer typically balance hands-on coding with team leadership responsibilities?

As a Lead Programmer, you'll often split your time between writing code and overseeing the development process for your team. While you may still handle complex coding tasks or set technical standards, a significant part of your role involves mentoring team members, conducting code reviews, and coordinating with other departments like QA and product management. Effective Lead Programmers are skilled at delegating tasks, ensuring code quality, and facilitating clear communication to keep projects on track. Striking the right balance between technical contribution and leadership is key to both your team's success and your own career growth.

Is AI replacing coders?

Lead Programmers and other coding professionals use AI tools to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, but AI currently cannot fully replace the creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills required for software development. AI acts as a complement to human programmers, enabling them to focus on complex design and architecture. Staying updated with new programming languages and AI integrations is important for job relevance in this evolving field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Programmer, you need expertise in software development, advanced programming languages, and project management, often supported by a computer science degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and agile methodologies is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving ability, and strong communication are essential soft skills to guide teams and coordinate stakeholders. These skills ensure efficient project delivery, high-quality code, and productive team collaboration in technical environments.

What is a lead programmer?

A lead programmer is a senior software developer responsible for guiding a development team, designing technical solutions, and ensuring project deadlines are met. They often coordinate tasks, review code, and communicate with stakeholders, requiring strong coding skills and leadership abilities.

What are Lead Programmers?

Lead Programmers, also known as Lead Developers, are senior software engineers responsible for guiding a team of programmers through the development lifecycle of a software project. They make crucial technical decisions, oversee code quality, and ensure that the team meets project requirements and deadlines. In addition to hands-on coding, Lead Programmers often coordinate with project managers and other departments, mentor junior developers, and help resolve technical challenges that arise during development.

What is the difference between Lead Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectLead ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; experience in coding and project leadershipBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; strong coding skills
Work EnvironmentTeam leadership, project planning, code reviewIndividual coding, feature development
Employer & Industry UsageSoftware companies, tech firms, game developmentWide range of industries including tech, finance, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in programming teamsFocus on coding and development tasks

The main difference between a Lead Programmer and a Software Developer lies in their responsibilities. Lead Programmers oversee project direction, coordinate teams, and review code, while Software Developers primarily focus on writing code and developing features. Both roles require strong programming skills and relevant education, but Lead Programmers have additional leadership duties within the development process.

More about Lead Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Programmer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Programmer jobs? The top employers for Lead Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Programmer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Lead Programmer jobs? For Lead Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lead Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,323 per year, or $55 per hour.
Lead Industrial Programmer - Engineering & Automation

Lead Industrial Programmer - Engineering & Automation

Pillar Innovations

Grantsville, MD

$35 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Pillar Innovations rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

179th of 375 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

As a Lead Industrial Programmer – Engineering & Automation, you’ll be at the forefront of designing and delivering advanced automation solutions—guiding projects from initial concept through installation and startup. This is a leadership role for someone who enjoys both high-level problem-solving and rolling up their sleeves to make things work in the real world.

You’ll support a diverse mix of projects, including custom electromechanical equipment, control panels, robotics, vision systems, drives, and other industrial automation technologies. In this role, you’ll provide technical direction and mentorship to assigned engineering personnel while collaborating closely with technicians, engineers, project managers, and customers to ensure successful project execution.

This position offers variety and challenge, with work performed on customer sites, in the shop, and in the office as project needs dictate. If you enjoy seeing your code drive real machinery and systems in the field, this role delivers that hands-on impact.

The ideal candidate brings expert-level knowledge of industrial controls, a strong automation programming background, and a willingness to be hands-on in both shop and field environments. Flexibility is key, as this position requires travel with overnight stays and overtime as needed to support project demands.


Responsibilities

  • Oversee and perform SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) development
  • Oversee and advise as to PLC and HMI programming, (ex. RS Logix 500/5000, Studio 5000, etc.) commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting on machines, production lines, conveyor systems, etc.
  • Oversee integration of various instrumentation such as pressure sensors, load cells, flow meters, etc.
  • Create project bids on projects as needed and review and approve bids from other personnel
  • Direct and define the scope of work and be able to communicate parameters with customers and Engineering personnel
  • Recognize, maintain, and pursue business opportunities with new and existing customers
  • Recognize and recommend improvements and enhancements to customers
  • Recognize and immediately communicate design changes to Engineers and Project Management that are not included in the Scope of Work or active Change Orders

Working Conditions

  • Walk / use hands to finger, handle or feel objects or tools / reach with hands and arms / climb ladders and stairs / crawl / kneel
  • Sit, talk, listen, observe, read, write, and type
  • Lift and/or move up to 50 pounds unassisted
  • Perform work on site in industrial locations with occasional underground and/or at heights

Qualifications

  • 8+ years’ relevant programming experience preferred
  • Possess relevant programming certifications or coursework preferred
  • Advanced proficiency with personal computers to include Microsoft Office Suite, setup, configuration, networking, IP Addresses, etc.
  • Active as a customer point of contact
  • Proficient with PLC and HMI software such as Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell Automation RSLogix, FactoryTalk View, and Ignition required
  • Possesses a strong understanding of overall industrial systems, processes, and control methods
  • Ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously
  • Experience bidding/quoting required

What Pillar Innovations employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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