In today’s digital age, coding skills are highly sought after across various industries, not just within the tech sector. As businesses increasingly rely on websites, software, and applications for their daily operations, professionals with coding expertise are in high demand. This prevalence of technology opens up numerous career paths for those skilled in coding. If you’re wondering What Career Jobs In Coding Get You, this article will explore eight distinct coding jobs, detailing their responsibilities, average salaries, and essential programming languages to learn for each role.
Eight Coding Jobs and the Languages You Need
The broad application of technology means that coding proficiency is valuable in many professions and sectors. Below is a list of coding jobs, their median salaries, and the programming languages that can pave your way into these careers. Salary data reflects the latest statistics from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook as of December 2024.
1. Web Developer
Web developers are the architects of the internet, writing code to build and maintain websites. This field is diverse, allowing for specialization in different areas. You might focus on front-end development, crafting the user-facing parts of websites; back-end development, managing the server-side and databases; or full-stack development, handling both front-end and back-end aspects.
Median US Salary: $92,750 [1]
Key Coding Languages: For front-end: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are crucial. For back-end: Python, Java, PHP, or Ruby are widely used.
Further Reading: What Does a Web Developer Do (And How Do I Become One)?
2. Software Engineer/Software Developer
Software engineers are the masterminds behind software applications. They design and develop everything from computer games and mobile apps to complex network control systems. Within software engineering, specializations include systems development, application development, and quality assurance testing, offering varied paths within this domain.
Median US Salary: $132,270 [2]
Key Coding Languages: Python, Java, and C++ are fundamental languages for software development.
Further Reading: What Does a Software Engineer Do?
3. IT Technician
While coding isn’t always a primary requirement for IT technician roles, basic coding skills can significantly enhance your capabilities. IT technicians often use code to automate solutions for routine IT issues and administrative tasks, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Median US Salary: $60,810 [3]
Key Coding Languages: Python is particularly useful for IT automation due to its versatility and ease of use.
Further Reading: What is an IT Technician? How to Become One
4. Data Scientist
Data scientists are in high demand across industries for their ability to interpret and leverage data to inform strategic business decisions. In this role, you’ll employ programming languages to uncover patterns and trends in large datasets, develop algorithms and predictive models, and create data visualizations to effectively communicate your findings.
Median US Salary: $108,020 [4]
Key Coding Languages: SQL for database management, Python, and R for statistical computing and data analysis are essential.
Further Reading: Python or R for Data Analysis: Which Should I Learn?
5. Systems Administrator
Systems administrators, or sysadmins, are vital for ensuring that a company’s computer systems operate smoothly and efficiently. Their responsibilities typically include configuring and maintaining servers and networks, performing upgrades, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring robust security measures are in place.
Median US Salary: $95,360 [5]
Key Coding Languages: Python, Perl, Bash, and PowerShell are valuable for scripting and automation in system administration tasks.
6. Product Manager
Product managers guide the vision, strategy, and development of specific products. For product managers in the digital realm, coding experience can be exceptionally beneficial. It enhances team communication, aids in understanding technical challenges, and facilitates more informed decision-making during product development.
Median US Salary: $169,510 [6]
Key Coding Languages: JavaScript, Python, and SQL can provide product managers with a better grasp of the technologies underpinning their products.
7. Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts play a critical role in protecting an organization’s digital infrastructure from cyber threats. They are tasked with safeguarding networks from unauthorized access and swiftly responding to security breaches. Programming skills enable cybersecurity analysts to automate routine security tasks, enhancing their efficiency and effectiveness.
Median US Salary: $120,360 [7]
Key Coding Languages: JavaScript, Python, C, and C++ are useful for cybersecurity analysts in developing security tools and analyzing threats.
Further Reading: What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? 2025 Job Guide
8. User Experience (UX) Designer
UX designers focus on enhancing the usability, accessibility, and enjoyment of digital products. They design with the end-user in mind, ensuring a positive and intuitive experience. While coding is not mandatory for UX designers, having coding skills fosters better collaboration with engineers and a deeper understanding of technical constraints and possibilities.
Median US Salary: $83,240 [1]
Key Coding Languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are beneficial for UX designers to understand the front-end technologies they are designing for.
Further Reading: What Does a UX Designer Do?
5 Beginner-Friendly Coding Languages
For those new to the world of coding, starting with the right programming language can make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are five coding languages that are excellent for beginners:
1. Swift: Ideal for developing applications within the Apple ecosystem, including iOS, macOS, and tvOS apps. Swift is designed for simplicity and efficiency, featuring a straightforward syntax that’s easy to grasp even for those without prior coding experience.
2. JavaScript: A ubiquitous language for web content creation, especially favored in front-end development. JavaScript’s widespread use means abundant resources and a supportive community, making it beginner-friendly. Its design caters to both programmers and non-programmers alike.
3. C: A robust, general-purpose language that serves as a strong foundation in programming. C is used in building diverse applications, from operating systems like Unix and Windows to software like Photoshop. It boasts a simple syntax of just 32 keywords and clear data structures.
4. Python: A versatile language preferred by data scientists, AI/machine learning experts, web developers, and embedded application developers. Python’s readable syntax, characterized by significant use of whitespace, and extensive libraries make this high-level, general-purpose language accessible to beginners.
5. Java: A popular, object-oriented, general-purpose language, particularly favored by back-end developers and for creating secure applications. Java’s concise and intuitive syntax and structure contribute to its ease of learning.
Tips for Landing a Coding Job
As you embark on your journey to find a coding job, consider these valuable tips to enhance your job search and increase your chances of success:
Leverage Freelancing for Experience
Many organizations, including startups and small businesses, require coding expertise for specific projects but may not need a full-time coder. Freelancing provides an excellent avenue to gain practical experience, build a portfolio, and demonstrate your skills to potential employers.
Freelance coding jobs can range from developing websites for entrepreneurs to creating custom software solutions for small businesses. These roles offer flexibility and can be a stepping stone to more permanent positions.
Further Reading: Computer Science Internships: Your Guide for 2025
Build a Strong Programming Portfolio
In the coding world, a portfolio is your most powerful tool. It’s about showing, not just telling, what you can do. A well-crafted portfolio showcases your projects, coding style, and problem-solving abilities, making you a more attractive candidate to employers.
Include projects from bootcamps, certifications, or personal projects. Ensure your code is clean, efficient, and well-commented to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail.
Further Reading: 7 UX Designer Portfolio Examples: A Beginner’s Guide
Optimize Your Resume
While a portfolio is crucial, a compelling resume is still essential. To make your resume stand out:
- Highlight Proficiencies: Clearly list all programming languages you are proficient in and specify your skill level (beginner, intermediate, expert).
- Showcase Workplace Skills: Emphasize relevant workplace skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
- Tailor to the Job: Customize your resume for each job application, aligning your experience and skills with the specific requirements of the job description.
- Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics and data to demonstrate the impact you made in previous roles, showcasing tangible results.
Further Reading: Software Engineer Resume: Examples, Tips, and More for 2024
Prepare for Technical Interviews
Technical interviews are common in the coding job application process. These interviews typically assess your technical skills through coding questions and live coding tests. Prepare by practicing common technical interview questions and brushing up on data structures and algorithms. Inquire with the recruiter about the interview format to prepare effectively.
Coding Jobs Without a Degree: Is It Possible?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to secure a coding job without a traditional four-year degree. The tech industry increasingly values skills and practical experience over formal education. Coding-related jobs are booming, with the BLS projecting a 17 percent growth in the IT field between 2023 and 2033, significantly faster than the average for all occupations [8].
Many employers prioritize candidates who can demonstrate their coding abilities through technical assessments and portfolios. Online courses, certifications, and coding bootcamps offer alternative pathways to gain the necessary skills and enter the coding profession.
Develop In-Demand Coding Skills with Coursera
If you’re motivated to pursue a coding career but are unsure where to begin, consider the University of Michigan’s Python for Everybody Specialization on Coursera. This specialization introduces fundamental programming concepts using Python, a beginner-friendly language, covering data structures, APIs, and databases.
To start building your portfolio and pursue a career as a web developer, explore the University of Michigan’s Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding Specialization. You’ll learn to create responsive and accessible websites using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.
For those interested in gaining industry-recognized credentials, the Amazon Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate is an excellent starting point. This program focuses on developing essential skills for entry-level roles, including full-stack web development, object-oriented programming, and the software development lifecycle.
