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What is a computer programmer and operator and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
3 min read
Quoted expert
James Sellmann Ph.D.
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to being a computer programmer and operator. For example, did you know that they make an average of $21.62 an hour? That's $44,960 a year! Between 2018 and 2028, the career is expected to grow -7% and produce -17,900 job opportunities across the U.S.

What general advice would you give to a computer programmer and operator?

James Sellmann Ph.D.

Dean, Professor of Philosophy and Micronesian Studies, University of Guam

General advice is to keep in mind that you must leverage your skills, especially your soft skills of being able to work with people, to communicate effectively and to be able to solve problems. Be real. Don't try to pretend to be someone else to impress others. Be your authentic self. And show up on time.

ScoreComputer Programmer And OperatorUS Average
Salary
3.5

Avg. Salary $44,960

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level
5.1

Growth rate -7%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity
3.5
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.18%

Asian 15.13%

Black or African American 4.86%

Hispanic or Latino 8.59%

Unknown 4.66%

White 66.58%

Gender

female 22.68%

male 77.32%

Age - 48
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 48
Stress level
5.1

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level
7.3

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance
5.7

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Computer programmer and operator career paths

Key steps to become a computer programmer and operator

  1. Explore computer programmer and operator education requirements

    Most common computer programmer and operator degrees

    Bachelor's

    42.4 %

    Associate

    39.7 %

    High School Diploma

    8.5 %

  2. Start to develop specific computer programmer and operator skills

    SkillsPercentages
    COBOL10.40%
    Mainframe9.36%
    Database Management9.17%
    Computer Language8.25%
    CNC5.80%
    Show more

  3. Complete relevant computer programmer and operator training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New computer programmer and operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a computer programmer and operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real computer programmer and operator resumes.

  4. Research computer programmer and operator duties and responsibilities

    • Manage automation jobs within Jenkins.
    • 1998Operate and maintain office PCs.
    • Develop SQL scripts for analyzing data integrity.
    • Execute TSO commands and utilize appropriate testing tools.

  5. Apply for computer programmer and operator jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a computer programmer and operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How did you land your first computer programmer and operator job

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Average computer programmer and operator salary

The average computer programmer and operator salary in the United States is $44,960 per year or $22 per hour. Computer programmer and operator salaries range between $27,000 and $73,000 per year.

Average computer programmer and operator salary
$44,960 Yearly
$21.62 hourly

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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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