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What is a software programmer and how to become one
As a software programmer, you will create the code for applications and operating systems. You will take the design made by the software developer and write a code that will serve as instructions for a computer to follow. You will then assess the program for errors and make the necessary adjustments until the program is without error. Your role as the software programmer is to develop new information systems and conduct tests to ensure that the program is operating as it should. As the software programmer, it is your responsibility to write code, test for and troubleshoot technical glitches, and maintain the program's source code.
This position requires you to be analytical and observant of every little detail and error regarding troubleshooting. Therefore, you need to be an expert problem-solver. To become a software programmer, you need to have obtained a degree in computer science, programming, or information systems. In order to gain experience, you will need to have undertaken an internship to learn more about the world of programming. Because advancements are constantly being made in this field, you need to be open to the idea of polishing your programming skills regularly.
What general advice would you give to a software programmer?
Frank McCown Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Harding University
Avg. Salary $71,612
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate -7%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.18%
Asian 25.24%
Black or African American 4.10%
Hispanic or Latino 7.23%
Unknown 4.41%
White 58.84%
Genderfemale 28.71%
male 71.29%
Age - 48American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 48Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Software programmer career paths
Key steps to become a software programmer
Explore software programmer education requirements
Start to develop specific software programmer skills
Skills Percentages Java 8.52% JavaScript 5.80% Software Development 5.01% HTML 4.99% Python 4.69% Complete relevant software programmer training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New software programmers 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 software programmer based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real software programmer resumes.Research software programmer duties and responsibilities
- Lead projects on QA that include test planning, design, execution and closure.
- Hibernate is used to manage data access object between object orient java and relational database.
- Implement a centralize configuration system for managing application settings, consisting of a desktop application with a WCF backend.
- Develop style-sheets for UI design and layout using CSS.
Prepare your software programmer resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your software programmer resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a software programmer resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable software programmer resume templates
Build a professional software programmer resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your software programmer resume.
Apply for software programmer jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a software programmer job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first software programmer job
Are you a software programmer?
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Average software programmer salary
The average software programmer salary in the United States is $71,612 per year or $34 per hour. Software programmer salaries range between $55,000 and $92,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do software programmers rate their job?
Software programmer reviews
Problem solving and cutting edge technology - always learning and evolving my skill set
Still have to deal with people :)
I enjoyed working on creative problems that dealt with the user interface
I didn't like how technical it could become
Designing a new system or making changes to an old one.
Compensation. Pay and Benefits do not match the time spent on a project. Alabama is the Worst state to live in for SOFTWARE ENGINEER Salaries. 40 to 50 percent less than our peer States.
Updated January 8, 2025
