Computer Programmers

What do they do?

Computer Programmers write programs and other instructions that tell computers to do certain jobs. Programs are step by step instructions that machines must follow to organize data, solve problems, or do other tasks. They break each step into a series of coded instructions, using one of the languages developed for computers. They test the programs and then prepare instruction sheets for workers to use in running them.

Work Activities

Analyze and study data on the problem.
Prepare a plan or flowchart to solve the problem.
Write detailed coded instructions for the computer to follow.
Test program to make sure it responds as anticipated.
Write instructions to guide workers during production runs.
Make reports of program development.

Skills & Abilities

Knowledge of complex math and computer science and languages.
Skills in analyzing data.
Skills in communicating technical information.
Skills in working with other workers and clients.
Skills in organizing time and information.

Be able to learn the principles and processes of computer programming.
Have strong verbal and numerical abilities.
Be able to pay attention to detail and do precise work.
Be able to make decisions based on data.
Have ability to do work that requires abstract thinking.
Be able to visualize objects from drawings and pictures.
Be able to work with people.

Work settings

Environment: Work indoors in offices or computer rooms.
Hours: Work 40 hours a week with longer hours possible to meet deadlines.
Employers: Manufacturing companies, banks, insurance companies, government agencies, colleges and universities, public utilities, computing services, research organizations, and wholesale and retail businesses.

Employment & wages

By 2000, it's estimated that 3,929 computer programmers and aides will be employed in Nebraska. Growth and/or turnover create approximately 160 annual job openings. It is estimated that 601,000 computer programmers will be employed in the U.S. by 2005.

Projected growth
Nebraska - Faster than average, 24%
National - About as fast as average, 12%
Nebraska annual beginning wage: $15,000 to $25,000
Nebraska annual experienced wage: $25,000 to $38,000
National annual average wage: $25,700 to $43,300

Licensing / Certification & Training

Licensing is not required, but to gain professional recognition, a person must be certified by the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals. To be certified, a person must pass a five-part exam offered by the institute. Individuals may take another section of the exam in order to specialize in business, scientific, or systems applications.

Most employers require a bachelors or associate degree in computer science or a closely related field.

Some require a masters degree in computer science.

Another option is a degree in a particular science or business field with course work in computer science.

Some employers offer apprenticeship training programs.

Helpful high school subjects

High school subjects that may help prepare individuals for this occupation include English, composition, algebra I and II, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, history, foreign language, sociology, chemistry, physics, electronics, government, and computer applications.

Bibliography

Nebraska Career Information System: Occupations (1996-97 ed.), pp. 269-271.
Complete Guide for Occupational Exploration (1993 ed.), pp. 430-432.
Dictionary of Occupational Titles (4th ed. Revised, 1991), p. 44.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (1996-97 ed.), p. 222.

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