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Computer Programmer
NOC Code: 2174
1.Job Description
Computer programmers write detailed instructions, called programs, software or simply code. These instructions direct computers to perform certain tasks. For example, a programmer might:
- design a program that automatically routes telephone calls made to a large organization,
- help create software that organizes financial information in a new, user-friendly way, or
- work with a team of programmers to put together an application that allows graphic designers, artists and animators to produce better-looking digital images.
In modern society, computers are used everywhere: in automobiles, household thermostats, financial institutions. They also assist in medicine, engineering and art, as well as in more basic industries such as mining and agriculture. As a result, programmers are involved in a very wide variety of industries.
A typical programming project involves several stages. First, computer programmers study the tasks that need to be done. To do this, they may have to work closely with the people who will be using the program. Next, they plan a general framework for a program that will perform this task. Usually, this kind of overall design is handled by more experienced, senior-level programmers.
The third step is to write out the detailed list of instructions that the computer will follow. The instructions are in computer languages such as Pascal, Visual Basic, C++ or Java. Sometimes this stage requires input from many different programmers over a long period. During this process, programmers carefully document the work they are doing so that other programmers can follow its progression.
When the third stage is completed, programmers test the software to make sure it functions the way that it's supposed to. This last stage is often referred to as the 揹ebugging?process. In some cases, programmers will also help write the instruction manual or train the people who will be using the program.
Computer programmers are often grouped into two broad types: applications programmers and systems programmers. Applications programmers write software to perform specific tasks. Systems programmers, on the other hand, have a broader focus. They look at entire computer systems and make sure that the different applications and equipment function well together.
2.Working Conditions
Some computer programmers work for governments, or for large businesses like banks and computer companies. Others work as independent consultants and may do much of their work out of home offices. Wherever they work, programmers are likely to spend a great deal of time in front of computer screens working with leading-edge hardware and software.
Programmers often work long or irregular hours. Those who work full-time for large companies may be on-call for computer malfunctions 24 hours a day. Those who work as independent consultants frequently pull 揳ll-nighters?to complete a project on schedule. The total number of hours they work a week, however, is usually pretty reasonable. Most programmers average between 40 and 50 hours a week.
Computer programmers spend most of their time in front of computers, typing information and thinking about new and innovative ways to design programs. Sitting in front of a computer for long hours can cause eye, neck and shoulder strain.
Programmers may travel to meet with clients and discuss their software needs.
3.Earnings
Although many computer programmers are permanently employed by large businesses or public organizations, a significant number work as independent consultants.
Programmers?incomes vary widely and depend on level of education, experience and employer. An entry-level programmer may make as little as $25,000 per year, while an experienced programmer with a computer-related PhD can earn up to $100,000 per year. Programmers who run their own successful consulting businesses can earn even more.
Most programmers in Canada earn between $30,000 and $60,000 a year. Their average annual income is approximately $40,000 to $45,000. Systems programmers generally earn more than applications programmers.
Although this occupation pays well, what attracts many people to the field is the ability to work on challenging problems with cutting edge computer software and equipment.
4.Education
Education & Training
In the past, a lot of programming was done by 揾ackers?who had little or no formal academic training in the field. Indeed, there are still no specific academic qualifications that you must have to work as a programmer.
In the last 10 years, however, universities, community colleges and private vocational schools have started to offer a wide variety of degrees and diplomas designed to prepare people for careers in computer programming. These include computer science, computer science engineering and business programming. In addition, disciplines like mathematics and business administration have developed strong computer-programming components.
As a result, most employers now expect job applicants to have a certain level of academic training. The level of training necessary depends on the scope and complexity of the work. Large corporations, government organizations and computer companies may require job applicants to have at least a bachelor抯 degree from university, while smaller companies with more limited programming needs may accept someone with a community college diploma or computer school training.
Generally speaking, the more education you have, the greater your options.
Related College & University Programs
Computer Programming
Computer Science
Software Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Systems Analysis
Computer Systems Technology
Management Information Systems
Other Suggested Qualifications
A background in math is useful because it trains you to think in a logical and precise manner. In the current job market, it is also very important to combine your knowledge of computers with another subject or discipline. Financial companies, for example, prefer to hire programmers who have business experience. Similarly, engineering firms tend to hire programmers with a background in engineering, and hospitals hire programmers who know something about health and the way the medical system works.
Computer programmers must be able to think both logically and creatively and concentrate for many hours at a time. They must pay close attention to detail because any minor error in the computer code can create major problems.
Related Subjects
Math
English
Computers
Business
Engineering Technology
5.Career Path
LEVEL 1 Junior Programmer
EARNINGS $30,000 to $45,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?University degree or college diploma that includes computer?related courses
RESPONSIBILITIES Writing program modules (i.e. small parts of a larger program) based on a senior-level programmer抯 specifications; testing these programs.
LEVEL 2 Programmer
EARNINGS $40,000 to $60,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?University degree in computer science or computer science engineering
?Several years of experience as a programmer
RESPONSIBILITIES Designing and writing programs; writing program specifications; coordinating and supervising the work of junior programmers.
LEVEL 3 Consultant/Analyst
EARNINGS $50,000 to $100,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?Many years of experience as a programmer
RESPONSIBILITIES Analyzing clients?needs; designing programs; writing program specifications; writing programs; installing new systems; training users.
6.Related Jobs
Business Systems Analyst
Computer Animator
Computer Engineer
Computer Network Specialist
Computer Support Person
Computer Trainer
Database Developer
Multimedia Developer
Project Manager
Video Game Developer
Web Developer
Web Site Designer
Webmaster
7. Resources
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers - Computer Society
http://www.computer.org
Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP)
2350 East Devon Avenue - Suite 115
Des Plaines, IL 60018-4610
http://www.iccp.org
IT Business, an online magazine
http://www.itbusiness.ca
Canadian Advanced Technology Association
http://www.cata.ca
DiscoverIT.org: Software Career Discovery Centre
http://www.discoverit.org
Software Human Resource Council
http://www.shrc.ca
Association for Computing Machinery
http://www.acm.org
Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
http://www.comptia.org
Java Developer's Journal
http://www.sys-con.com/java
Wired
http://www.wired.com/wired/current.html
MacTech Magazine
http://www.mactech.com
Virtual Computer Library ?Links to Computer Magazines
http://www.utexas.edu/computer/vcl/journals.html
Job Futures:
Computer Programmers
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/2163.shtml更多精彩文章及讨论，请光临枫下论坛 rolia.net
Computer Programmer
NOC Code: 2174
1.Job Description
Computer programmers write detailed instructions, called programs, software or simply code. These instructions direct computers to perform certain tasks. For example, a programmer might:
- design a program that automatically routes telephone calls made to a large organization,
- help create software that organizes financial information in a new, user-friendly way, or
- work with a team of programmers to put together an application that allows graphic designers, artists and animators to produce better-looking digital images.
In modern society, computers are used everywhere: in automobiles, household thermostats, financial institutions. They also assist in medicine, engineering and art, as well as in more basic industries such as mining and agriculture. As a result, programmers are involved in a very wide variety of industries.
A typical programming project involves several stages. First, computer programmers study the tasks that need to be done. To do this, they may have to work closely with the people who will be using the program. Next, they plan a general framework for a program that will perform this task. Usually, this kind of overall design is handled by more experienced, senior-level programmers.
The third step is to write out the detailed list of instructions that the computer will follow. The instructions are in computer languages such as Pascal, Visual Basic, C++ or Java. Sometimes this stage requires input from many different programmers over a long period. During this process, programmers carefully document the work they are doing so that other programmers can follow its progression.
When the third stage is completed, programmers test the software to make sure it functions the way that it's supposed to. This last stage is often referred to as the 揹ebugging?process. In some cases, programmers will also help write the instruction manual or train the people who will be using the program.
Computer programmers are often grouped into two broad types: applications programmers and systems programmers. Applications programmers write software to perform specific tasks. Systems programmers, on the other hand, have a broader focus. They look at entire computer systems and make sure that the different applications and equipment function well together.
2.Working Conditions
Some computer programmers work for governments, or for large businesses like banks and computer companies. Others work as independent consultants and may do much of their work out of home offices. Wherever they work, programmers are likely to spend a great deal of time in front of computer screens working with leading-edge hardware and software.
Programmers often work long or irregular hours. Those who work full-time for large companies may be on-call for computer malfunctions 24 hours a day. Those who work as independent consultants frequently pull 揳ll-nighters?to complete a project on schedule. The total number of hours they work a week, however, is usually pretty reasonable. Most programmers average between 40 and 50 hours a week.
Computer programmers spend most of their time in front of computers, typing information and thinking about new and innovative ways to design programs. Sitting in front of a computer for long hours can cause eye, neck and shoulder strain.
Programmers may travel to meet with clients and discuss their software needs.
3.Earnings
Although many computer programmers are permanently employed by large businesses or public organizations, a significant number work as independent consultants.
Programmers?incomes vary widely and depend on level of education, experience and employer. An entry-level programmer may make as little as $25,000 per year, while an experienced programmer with a computer-related PhD can earn up to $100,000 per year. Programmers who run their own successful consulting businesses can earn even more.
Most programmers in Canada earn between $30,000 and $60,000 a year. Their average annual income is approximately $40,000 to $45,000. Systems programmers generally earn more than applications programmers.
Although this occupation pays well, what attracts many people to the field is the ability to work on challenging problems with cutting edge computer software and equipment.
4.Education
Education & Training
In the past, a lot of programming was done by 揾ackers?who had little or no formal academic training in the field. Indeed, there are still no specific academic qualifications that you must have to work as a programmer.
In the last 10 years, however, universities, community colleges and private vocational schools have started to offer a wide variety of degrees and diplomas designed to prepare people for careers in computer programming. These include computer science, computer science engineering and business programming. In addition, disciplines like mathematics and business administration have developed strong computer-programming components.
As a result, most employers now expect job applicants to have a certain level of academic training. The level of training necessary depends on the scope and complexity of the work. Large corporations, government organizations and computer companies may require job applicants to have at least a bachelor抯 degree from university, while smaller companies with more limited programming needs may accept someone with a community college diploma or computer school training.
Generally speaking, the more education you have, the greater your options.
Related College & University Programs
Computer Programming
Computer Science
Software Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Systems Analysis
Computer Systems Technology
Management Information Systems
Other Suggested Qualifications
A background in math is useful because it trains you to think in a logical and precise manner. In the current job market, it is also very important to combine your knowledge of computers with another subject or discipline. Financial companies, for example, prefer to hire programmers who have business experience. Similarly, engineering firms tend to hire programmers with a background in engineering, and hospitals hire programmers who know something about health and the way the medical system works.
Computer programmers must be able to think both logically and creatively and concentrate for many hours at a time. They must pay close attention to detail because any minor error in the computer code can create major problems.
Related Subjects
Math
English
Computers
Business
Engineering Technology
5.Career Path
LEVEL 1 Junior Programmer
EARNINGS $30,000 to $45,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?University degree or college diploma that includes computer?related courses
RESPONSIBILITIES Writing program modules (i.e. small parts of a larger program) based on a senior-level programmer抯 specifications; testing these programs.
LEVEL 2 Programmer
EARNINGS $40,000 to $60,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?University degree in computer science or computer science engineering
?Several years of experience as a programmer
RESPONSIBILITIES Designing and writing programs; writing program specifications; coordinating and supervising the work of junior programmers.
LEVEL 3 Consultant/Analyst
EARNINGS $50,000 to $100,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS ?Many years of experience as a programmer
RESPONSIBILITIES Analyzing clients?needs; designing programs; writing program specifications; writing programs; installing new systems; training users.
6.Related Jobs
Business Systems Analyst
Computer Animator
Computer Engineer
Computer Network Specialist
Computer Support Person
Computer Trainer
Database Developer
Multimedia Developer
Project Manager
Video Game Developer
Web Developer
Web Site Designer
Webmaster
7. Resources
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers - Computer Society
http://www.computer.org
Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP)
2350 East Devon Avenue - Suite 115
Des Plaines, IL 60018-4610
http://www.iccp.org
IT Business, an online magazine
http://www.itbusiness.ca
Canadian Advanced Technology Association
http://www.cata.ca
DiscoverIT.org: Software Career Discovery Centre
http://www.discoverit.org
Software Human Resource Council
http://www.shrc.ca
Association for Computing Machinery
http://www.acm.org
Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA)
http://www.comptia.org
Java Developer's Journal
http://www.sys-con.com/java
Wired
http://www.wired.com/wired/current.html
MacTech Magazine
http://www.mactech.com
Virtual Computer Library ?Links to Computer Magazines
http://www.utexas.edu/computer/vcl/journals.html
Job Futures:
Computer Programmers
http://jobfutures.ca/noc/2163.shtml更多精彩文章及讨论，请光临枫下论坛 rolia.net