Computer Programmer

Typical Work Tasks
People who work in this career often:

• Resolve computer software problems.
• Write computer programming code.
• Design websites or web applications.
• Develop computer or online applications.
• Develop diagrams or flowcharts of system operation.
• Develop models of information or communications systems.
• Modify software programs to improve performance.
• Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
• Document design or development procedures.
• Prepare instruction manuals.

Typical Working Conditions

• Using e-mail.
• Sitting.
• Working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions.
• The importance of being accurate or exact.
• Working with a group or team.
• Meeting strict deadlines.
• High levels of competition.

Tools & Technology used by Computer Programmers

Source: Minnesota CAREERwise

Most Important Skills for Computer Programmers

• Programming Computers —Writing computer programs for various purposes.
• Listening—Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Solving Complex Problems—Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Thinking Critically—Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Selecting/Creating the Right Product Design—Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
• Evaluating a System or Organization—Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
• Controlling Quality—Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
• Reading—Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Speaking—Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Learning New Things—Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Most Important Knowledge Areas for Computer Programmers

• Computers and Electronics—Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
• Mathematics—Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
• Engineering and Technology—Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
• English Language—Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Geography—Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
• Design—Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
• Clerical—Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
• Customer and Personal Service—Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Education and Training—Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
• Administration and Management—Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Interests
Different careers may be a good fit for your personality or interests. This career is:

• Investigative—Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
• Conventional—Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

Source: Minnesota CAREERwise

Low indicates 25% of workers earn less and 75% earn more. Median indicates 50% of workers earn less and 50% earn more. High indicates 75% of workers earn less and 25% earn more.

Source: Minnesota DEED Occupational Employment Statistics Tool, Northwest Region 

Demand
Although this career is in high demand currently, there will be a 8% decline for new Computer Programmers between 2018-2028. The job demand will be due to the need to replace workers leaving the occupation or retiring.

Source: Minnesota CAREERwise

This career is best for those with at least a Bachelor’s degree, and many professionals earn a Master’s degree. This career does not require a license, but certifications can help you move ahead in some industries.

View the local post-secondary education options for this career from Central Lakes College.

Spotlight on Central Lakes College

• Why consider CLC?
• Virtual Campus Tours: Brainerd Campus, Staples Campus
• Learn more about the CLC Honors Program.
• Attend CLC, and you may never need to buy a textbook.

If you have a physical, mental, developmental, or cognitive condition that requires educational support, learn about support options at CLC.

Helpful High School Courses
Examples of helpful classes that help you prepare for this career:

• Algebra I and II
• Analytic Geometry
• Electronics
• Graphic Arts
• Journalism
• Keyboarding
• Multimedia
• Network Systems
• Pre-Calculus
• Technical Writing
• Trigonometry
• Web Page Design

Source: Minnesota CAREERwise