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The differences between database programmers and programmers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a database programmer, becoming a programmer takes usually requires 6-8 years. Additionally, a database programmer has an average salary of $78,390, which is higher than the $73,007 average annual salary of a programmer.
The top three skills for a database programmer include PL/SQL, access database and microsoft sql server. The most important skills for a programmer are java, javascript, and CSS.
| Database Programmer | Programmer | |
| Yearly salary | $78,390 | $73,007 |
| Hourly rate | $37.69 | $35.10 |
| Growth rate | 9% | -7% |
| Number of jobs | 18,188 | 234,565 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 67% |
| Average age | 46 | 47 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 8 |
A database programmer specializes in developing and maintaining database programs, modifying them according to their clients' needs. They design and write codes for different programs, establish and implement test systems, troubleshoot problems, solve concerns or issues, and upgrade systems as necessary. They may also establish data security plans and implement protocols to protect company and client data. Moreover, a database programmer maintains an active communication line with co-workers, working together to ensure a smooth workflow and provide optimal services to clients.
Computer programmers provide assistance and services concerning computer applications and software programs. A computer programmer must be highly-knowledgeable on programming languages and operating systems to create projects and fix any malfunctions under minimal supervision. Computer programmers must have excellent communication and critical-thinking skills to analyze data and request assistance from a senior programmer as needed. They must also be keen on details to oversee possible faulty codes, troubleshooting problems, and upgrading systems to ensure that the program will perform smoothly and efficiently.
Database programmers and programmers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Database Programmer | Programmer | |
| Average salary | $78,390 | $73,007 |
| Salary range | Between $56,000 And $107,000 | Between $54,000 And $98,000 |
| Highest paying City | San Francisco, CA | Bothell, WA |
| Highest paying state | Massachusetts | Washington |
| Best paying company | Edwards Lifesciences | Mayo Clinic |
| Best paying industry | Pharmaceutical | Finance |
There are a few differences between a database programmer and a programmer in terms of educational background:
| Database Programmer | Programmer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 69% | Bachelor's Degree, 67% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between database programmers' and programmers' demographics:
| Database Programmer | Programmer | |
| Average age | 46 | 47 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 73.6% Female, 26.4% | Male, 74.4% Female, 25.6% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 7.7% Unknown, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 9.7% Asian, 21.0% White, 55.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.5% | Black or African American, 4.8% Unknown, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 8.5% Asian, 17.8% White, 64.0% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 6% | 11% |