Ever been captivated by the magic behind your favorite mobile app or a complex computer program? It all comes down to lines of code, a fascinating combination of letters, numbers, and symbols arranged in a precise order to power entire software systems. This intrigue into the world of technology might have even sparked you to learn some basic programming languages and experiment with coding yourself.
Leverage Your Coding Skills for a Fulfilling Career
Now, that initial spark of curiosity could ignite into a full-fledged Career In Coding Computers. If you’re contemplating transforming your self-taught coding skills into a professional path as a computer programmer, software developer, or another tech-related role, you’re in an exciting position!
The tech industry is brimming with opportunities for individuals with coding expertise. From roles like computer support specialists and systems analysts to software developers, engineers, and data scientists, a career in coding computers offers diverse avenues. Whether your passion lies in crafting code all day or applying your programming knowledge to strategic business decisions, the realm of software development, engineering, data science, mobile applications, and beyond presents numerous exciting career options.
9 Computer Coding and Programming Jobs to Consider
What programming jobs are available? What responsibilities do they entail? And what salary can you expect in a computer coding career? Let’s delve into these questions and more.
Using real-time job market analytics, we’ve examined over 1.8 million job postings that highlight programming skills as a desired qualification. This in-depth analysis has identified nine prominent career paths in coding computers that are worth exploring. Discover more about these roles and pinpoint which coding job aligns best with your aspirations.
1. Software Application Developer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 25% (Much faster than average)
Software and mobile application developers are the architects behind the apps we use daily on smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. They are tasked with creating and refining these applications.
This career path in coding computers is perfectly suited for individuals who possess a holistic, “big picture” perspective and thrive in collaborative environments, bringing innovative ideas to life. A solid grasp of fundamental coding principles and a knack for mathematics are also crucial assets.
Most Common Programming Languages for Software Application Developers:
- Java®
- JavaScript®
- Python®
Explore the intricacies of a software developer.
2. Web Developer
- Required Education: Associate’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 23% (Much faster than average)
The visual appeal and functionality of a website are directly shaped by the work of a web developer. While all careers in coding computers demand patience, web development often provides quicker visible results.
Web developers are adept at understanding client needs and employing problem-solving skills to construct optimal websites for businesses, utilizing appropriate programming languages and IT infrastructure. They might also integrate new software solutions into their web development projects. The satisfaction of launching a functional, accessible website is a key reward. A strong portfolio and proficiency in coding languages are vital for success in this role.
Most Common Programming Languages for Web Developers:
- JavaScript
- Java
- HTML5
Delve deeper into the world of a web developer.
3. Computer Network Architect
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 4% (About average)
Computer network architects are responsible for managing a company’s entire data communication network. Their role involves planning, presenting proposals to company leadership, and overseeing and optimizing both hardware and software components.
Their work can encompass local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. Networks can range from small setups connecting a couple of offices to massive cloud infrastructures, as highlighted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Network Architects:
- PERL®
- Tcl
- Python
4. Database Administrator
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 9% (Faster than average)
Database administrators are the guardians of digital information, tasked with securing, organizing, and troubleshooting data storage for companies operating online. They manage vast quantities of information.
If you enjoy analyzing and recovering data, coupled with rapid problem-solving, a career in coding computers as a database administrator could be an excellent fit.
Most Common Programming Languages for Database Administrators:
- Python
- Java
- Oracle® PL/SQL
Gain a clearer understanding of the role of a database administrator.
5. Computer Systems Analyst
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 9% (Faster than average)
Computer systems analysts are strategic thinkers who bridge the gap between a company’s business objectives and its information technology (IT) infrastructure.
They evaluate existing computer systems and network systems within an organization and recommend upgrades to align with business needs. Success in this career in coding computers requires a strong foundation in computer coding as well as business acumen.
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Systems Analysts:
- JavaScript
- Python
Explore the responsibilities of a computer systems analyst.
6. Software Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 25% (Much faster than average)
Software QA engineers play a crucial role at the forefront of software development. They are responsible for documenting defects, designing test protocols and scenarios, and developing user manuals for new software.
They also critically assess current software designs for functionality and potential issues. Their meticulous work ensures software reliability and user satisfaction.
Most Common Programming Languages for Software QA Engineers:
- Java
- Python
Learn more about the function of a software QA engineer.
7. Business Intelligence Analyst
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 11% (Faster than average)
While programming skills are beneficial, they are not always the primary requirement for business intelligence analysts. This role is geared towards individuals who are adept at behind-the-scenes market research.
Business intelligence analysts gather and interpret factual data on software products and industry trends to identify software solutions that can support and enhance business initiatives. If you appreciate the fundamentals of coding but prefer a career that isn’t solely focused on coding, this could be a suitable path in coding computers for you.
Most Common Programming Languages for Business Intelligence Analysts:
- R
- Java
Gain a deeper understanding of the world of a business intelligence analyst.
8. Computer Programmer
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): -10% (Slower than average)
Computer programmers are the core code writers. They develop programs and debug existing code until it is error-free.
They utilize workflow charts and coding algorithms to achieve desired outputs. Attention to detail and patience are key attributes that will distinguish you in this career in coding computers.
Most Common Programming Languages for Computer Programmers:
- Java
- JavaScript
- Microsoft C#®
Understand more about what computer programming entails.
9. Network System Administrator
- Required Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Employment Growth (2021-2031): 3% (Slower than average)
Network system administrators are responsible for maintaining the computing environment within networks and implementing disaster recovery measures, such as data backups.
Key responsibilities include ensuring network security, preventing virus intrusions, and verifying code integrity. They safeguard both the network and hardware of an organization’s computer systems.
Most Common Programming Languages for Network Administrators:
- Python
- PERL®
- Java
Explore the responsibilities of a network administrator.
Which Computer Coding Jobs Spark Your Interest?
Now that you have a broader view of the diverse ways you can leverage your coding skills, it’s time to build upon the foundational knowledge you’ve already acquired and consider a career in coding computers.
While many of these computer programming careers typically require a Bachelor’s degree, even an Associate’s degree combined with a strong portfolio can open doors to entry-level positions in computer systems design or various coding jobs. The world of tech awaits those ready to code their future.
Related Articles:
1Burning-Glass.com (analysis of 1,800,750 jobs that require programming skills, June 01, 2019 – May 31, 2020).
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [career information accessed May 2023]. Salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.
This data does not represent starting salaries, and employment conditions in your area may vary.
Oracle, Java and JavaScript are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.Python is a registered trademark of the Python Software Foundation. PERL is a registered trademark of The PERL Foundation
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published in December 2016. It has since been updated to include information relevant to 2023.
