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The differences between computer programmers and computer engineers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 6-8 years to become a computer programmer, becoming a computer engineer takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a computer engineer has an average salary of $96,805, which is higher than the $70,979 average annual salary of a computer programmer.
The top three skills for a computer programmer include C #, java and javascript. The most important skills for a computer engineer are python, software development, and java.
| Computer Programmer | Computer Engineer | |
| Yearly salary | $70,979 | $96,805 |
| Hourly rate | $34.12 | $46.54 |
| Growth rate | -7% | 10% |
| Number of jobs | 205,491 | 126,709 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Average age | 47 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 2 |
A Computer Programmer is a specialist in writing computer programs as well as mobile applications. In addition to writing and testing code written, they are responsible for installing updates for software, debugging or improving functionality, troubleshooting parts of the program that is not functioning, and rewriting code for computer programs to be compatible in different operating systems. They also work to prevent data leaks and breaches in security by identifying malicious software and building firewalls.
A computer engineer is someone who examines, designs, and manages computer hardware and software systems. He/She or she helps in solving issues or any concerns that may occur with the computer's hardware and software as well as assists in the innovation of computer technology. Computer engineers are responsible for computer hardware design, development, research, and test computer systems. They examine components like circuit boards, processors, memory devices, routers, and networks. While, those working with the computer software are in charge of the development, design, and administration of software programs.
Computer programmers and computer engineers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Computer Programmer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average salary | $70,979 | $96,805 |
| Salary range | Between $55,000 And $90,000 | Between $70,000 And $132,000 |
| Highest paying City | Richmond, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | California |
| Best paying company | Waymo | |
| Best paying industry | Finance | Finance |
There are a few differences between a computer programmer and a computer engineer in terms of educational background:
| Computer Programmer | Computer Engineer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 60% | Bachelor's Degree, 66% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Engineering |
| Most common college | University of Chicago | Harvard University |
Here are the differences between computer programmers' and computer engineers' demographics:
| Computer Programmer | Computer Engineer | |
| Average age | 47 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 70.2% Female, 29.8% | Male, 86.3% Female, 13.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 5.1% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.9% Asian, 15.0% White, 66.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 10.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 15.0% Asian, 15.0% White, 53.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.4% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |