What Is a Programmer and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

Programmers write computer software, websites, and mobile applications using computer languages to generate code. Some common programming languages include C#, Python, and Java. Programmers may work as web developers, software developers, analysts, app developers, computer scientists, and firmware developers, depending on their specialty. As a programmer, you take the take the software designs created by developers and translate them into computer language that tells the computer what to do. The language may be simple and straightforward or very complex, depending on what functions your client needs from the application. You are also responsible for updating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the software as necessary.

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, coding and programming are two different things. Coding refers to writing codes for applications, but programming is a much broader term. Programmers find solutions to problems and determine how they should be solved. Programmers generally deal with the big picture within an application, not just compartmentalized lines of code.

It is easier to learn to code that it is to program. Coders can produce code in various languages in a short period of time, but it may take many years to become a programmer with the depth and breadth of experience needed for the position. Programmers are highly skilled, able to think critically and develop abstract solutions, and bring them to fruition on time and on budget.

How programmers spend their days depends greatly on where they work and the nature of their projects. Most programmers spend much of their time writing code using the computer language used in the software, such as Python, C+, and Java. They may also be responsible for handling customer inquiries about their applications, and also updating, monitoring, troubleshooting issues. But as a programmer, you may have additional responsibilities which require a variety of skills. These duties include analysis, strategic development, and for those in management positions, overseeing other employees. They also dedicate some of their workday writing, testing, and debugging programs to maximize their efficiency and usefulness.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented programmer to join our growing team. You will be the producer and keeper of clear, concise code and ensure that our programs come to life in a functional, flawless, and efficient manner. You must be consistent in your process, communicate effectively, and finish projects on time.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with upper management to determine programming objectives
• Participate in development of new software applications
• Write code that supports these objectives and provides optimal functionality
• Edit and improve upon code in existing software programs and applications
• Design new programs and applications that will enhance our business
• Ensure code is error-free, readable, efficient, and logically organized for ease of access
• Aptly name variables and include code comments for future users
• Provide supplemental program instructions and diagrams for code in layman's terms
• Develop set systems and tasks for efficient coding processes
• Run extensive tests and trial runs to confirm proper functionality and desired results
• Operate debugging software and seek out the root cause of error in coding or sequences
• Perform detailed, manual checks of code
• Troubleshoot errors effectively and efficiently
• Create, manage, and maintain coding databases
• Formulate efficient database retrieval systems
• Frequently run upgrades on systems
• Utilize information from code libraries to ease and expedite the coding process
• Ensure programs, external equipment, networks, etc. are all in proper communication
• Provide model diagrams and prototypes of programming system
• Collaborate in cross-functional projects
• Stay abreast of industry breakthroughs and any new relevant programming technology

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer programming, computer science or related field
• 2+ years of programming experience
• Extensive knowledge in various programming languages (Java, Perl, Python, C++, etc.)
• Proven mastery of use in our preferred coding language
• Professional manner and accountable for work performed
• Strong independent work ethic
• Efficient and accurate coder
• Adept problem solver
• Excellent database management skills
• Results-driven