What Is a Perl Programmer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

As a Perl programmer, you develop code in the Perl programming language, using Perl to build and design web interfaces. Your responsibilities include working with Perl to perform a variety of functional tests on software to check for efficiency and accuracy. Other duties involve working on stringing together various sets of online data and interfaces using Perl. You work with a programming team to achieve specific goals, such as designing a new Perl application for an employer or meshing different user interfaces using Perl.

While becoming a Perl programmer does not require you have formal qualifications or postsecondary education, most successful programmers have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, or data systems or a related field. Many employers accept prior experience and, especially, a portfolio of successful projects in lieu of a university degree. It is not uncommon for employers to require prospective employees to pass a Perl test in order to establish your ability and skills. As with many careers, being a Perl programmer requires excellent communication skills, particularly as you translate technical concepts and limitations to stakeholders and decision-makers.