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The differences between research programmers and software programmers can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. It typically takes 6-8 years to become both a research programmer and a software programmer. Additionally, a research programmer has an average salary of $80,823, which is higher than the $71,612 average annual salary of a software programmer.
The top three skills for a research programmer include python, research projects and java. The most important skills for a software programmer are java, javascript, and software development.
| Research Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Yearly salary | $80,823 | $71,612 |
| Hourly rate | $38.86 | $34.43 |
| Growth rate | -7% | -7% |
| Number of jobs | 139,392 | 253,235 |
| Job satisfaction | - | - |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Average age | 47 | 47 |
| Years of experience | 8 | 8 |
Research programmers are in charge of the overall programming activities on a vital project or various smaller projects that may include monitoring and directing the performance of assigned staff. They utilize research methods like digital modeling, simulation, programming, and database manipulation, as well as the evaluation of quantitative data. Also, they are responsible for determining and selecting project opportunities, managing coverage, and completing project commitments. Qualifications for the job may include a bachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, economics, engineering, or computer science. Also, relevant professional experience is essential.
A software programmer is an information technology expert who specializes in programming software and generating codes, ensuring quality and efficiency. In a company setting, they typically perform research and analysis to understand and identify the projects' needs, develop and implement test structures, troubleshoot and resolve issues, write technical instructions, and provide technical support to staff as needed. Most of the time, a software programmer works in a team setting, which requires an active communication line for a smooth workflow.
Research programmers and software programmers have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Research Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Average salary | $80,823 | $71,612 |
| Salary range | Between $61,000 And $105,000 | Between $55,000 And $92,000 |
| Highest paying City | Oakland, CA | San Francisco, CA |
| Highest paying state | California | Washington |
| Best paying company | Mayo Clinic | Panaya |
| Best paying industry | Professional | Technology |
There are a few differences between a research programmer and a software programmer in terms of educational background:
| Research Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Most common degree | Bachelor's Degree, 70% | Bachelor's Degree, 69% |
| Most common major | Computer Science | Computer Science |
| Most common college | Harvard University | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
Here are the differences between research programmers' and software programmers' demographics:
| Research Programmer | Software Programmer | |
| Average age | 47 | 47 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 78.3% Female, 21.7% | Male, 71.3% Female, 28.7% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 4.1% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, 25.3% White, 58.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% | Black or African American, 4.1% Unknown, 4.4% Hispanic or Latino, 7.2% Asian, 25.2% White, 58.8% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.2% |
| LGBT Percentage | 11% | 11% |