How many hours do computer programmers work?

While many computer programmers that have a salaried position experience a traditional work week of 40 hours, it is not uncommon for some to have to work 40 to 50 hours a week, and in some cases more, due to the intensity of the projects they are working on. There are also computer programmers that work part-time in the 20 to 30 hours per week range.

Many computer programmers work fairly traditional schedules, like 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. However, some computer programmers also might need to provide technical support outside of normal business hours. Giving technical support can also lead to them having to work nights, weekends, and holidays, in some cases.

There are also other factors that can contribute to variance in work schedules amongst computer programmers, including:

• Computer programmers in the private sector

Most computer programmers working in the private sector work for 40 hours per week, however, some have to put in overtime hours due to a project they are working on. This may also cause them to work outside of the traditional 9 am to 5 pm schedule.

• Flexible scheduling

Many companies that employ computer programmers offer flexible scheduling in the form of telecommuting options or remote work. This means that some computer programmers have the freedom to dictate their own work schedule to a degree, but the total number of hours will still be 40 hours or above for full-time, and 20 to 30 hours for part-time.

• Computer programmers in the public sector

Computer programmers who work in the public sector, like ones that work for government agencies, often have more stable and predictable work schedules. These also tend to be around 40 hours or slightly more per week. Emergency situations can see these programmers working outside of their normal schedule or committing to overtime work hours.

• Freelance computer programmers

Freelance computer programmers tend to have the most flexible work schedules of any computer programmers. These professionals take on different projects from clients and can choose their work schedules to a certain degree. But this also means they might have to work longer hours and more hours in general to meet a particular client's demands for a project.