Everything comes down to code. The intricate dance of mobile applications and the robust functionality of computer programs are all, at their core, built upon lines of code. It’s a fascinating concept – how a precise arrangement of letters, numbers, and symbols can power entire software systems. If you’ve ever been captivated by this idea and have dabbled in programming yourself, you might be wondering about turning that curiosity and self-taught knowledge into a full-fledged career.
Perhaps you’ve already explored some basic programming languages and experimented with coding. Now, you’re considering expanding those skills and pursuing a career as a computer programmer, software developer, or another role in the coding field. If this sounds like you, you’re in a great position!
The tech industry offers a wide array of programming and coding jobs where you can leverage your technical abilities. These roles span from directly writing code to using programming knowledge to influence broader business strategies. Whether you envision yourself immersed in code every day or prefer to apply your programming understanding to guide business decisions, numerous career paths await in software development, engineering, data science, mobile applications, and beyond.
9 Exciting Computer Coding and Programming Job Options
What programming jobs are actually out there? What do these roles entail daily? And what kind of salary can you expect from a computer coding job? Let’s explore these questions and more.
Using real-time job market analytics, we’ve examined data from over 1.8 million job postings that emphasize programming skills. This analysis helped us identify nine common and promising programming careers to consider. Dive into the details of each role to discover which coding job might be the perfect fit for you.
1. Software Application Developer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 25% growth (Much faster than average)
Software and mobile app developers are the architects behind the applications we use daily on our smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. They are responsible for both creating new applications and enhancing existing ones.
This career path is ideally suited for individuals who think strategically and enjoy collaborative environments to bring innovative ideas to life. A solid grasp of coding fundamentals and a knack for mathematics are crucial assets in this role.
Popular Programming Languages for Software Application Developers:
- Java®
- JavaScript®
- Python®
Delve deeper into the world of a Software Developer.
2. Web Developer
- Typical Education: Associate’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 23% growth (Much faster than average)
The visual appeal and functionality of websites are directly shaped by the work of web developers. While all programming careers demand patience, web development often provides quicker visible results.
Web developers are skilled listeners, understanding client needs and creatively problem-solving to build optimal websites for businesses. This involves selecting the most appropriate programming languages and IT infrastructure, and they might integrate new software as part of their development process.
The satisfaction of web development comes from seeing a live, functional website as a tangible result of your efforts. A strong portfolio showcasing your work and a deep understanding of coding languages are key to success in this field.
Popular Programming Languages for Web Developers:
- JavaScript
- Java
- HTML5
Learn more about embarking on a career as a Web Developer.
3. Computer Network Architect
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 4% growth (About average)
Computer network architects are the planners and builders of a company’s data communication networks. They design network plans, present them to company leadership, and oversee the implementation and optimization of both hardware and software.
Their responsibilities can encompass local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. As the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights, these networks can range from small setups connecting two offices to massive cloud infrastructures.
Popular Programming Languages for Computer Network Architects:
- PERL®
- Tcl
- Python
4. Database Administrator
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 9% growth (Faster than average)
Database administrators are the guardians of an organization’s digital information. They are responsible for securing, organizing, and troubleshooting the storage of vast amounts of data for companies operating online.
If you are drawn to analyzing and recovering information, and excel at rapid problem-solving, a career as a database administrator could be a perfect coding career path for you.
Popular Programming Languages for Database Administrators:
- Python
- Java
- Oracle® PL/SQL
Explore the responsibilities of a Database Administrator.
5. Computer Systems Analyst
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 9% growth (Faster than average)
Computer systems analysts act as strategists, bridging the gap between a company’s business goals and their information technology (IT) infrastructure.
They evaluate existing computer systems and network systems and recommend upgrades or improvements to align with evolving business needs. Success in this programming career requires a strong understanding of both computer coding and business operations.
Popular Programming Languages for Computer Systems Analysts:
- JavaScript
- Python
Understand more about the role of a Computer Systems Analyst.
6. Software Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 25% growth (Much faster than average)
Software QA engineers are crucial to the software development lifecycle, focusing on ensuring quality from the outset. They document defects, design test plans and scenarios, and create user manuals for new software.
They also rigorously review existing software designs to identify potential functionality issues and areas for improvement.
Popular Programming Languages for Software QA Engineers:
- Java
- Python
Discover what a career as a Software QA Engineer entails.
7. Business Intelligence Analyst
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 11% growth (Faster than average)
While not always a core requirement, programming skills are a significant advantage for business intelligence analysts.
This role is for those who enjoy working behind the scenes, gathering and analyzing data on software products and market trends to identify software solutions that can drive business initiatives forward.
If you appreciate the fundamentals of coding but prefer not to dedicate your entire career to it, becoming a business intelligence analyst could be a compelling programming-adjacent job for you.
Popular Programming Languages for Business Intelligence Analysts:
- R
- Java
Gain a deeper understanding of the field of Business Intelligence Analysis.
8. Computer Programmer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): -10% growth (Slower than average)
Computer programmers are the meticulous coders who write and refine programs, debugging and rewriting code until it functions flawlessly.
They translate workflow charts and coding formulas into functional code to produce the desired outputs. Attention to detail and patience are essential qualities for success in this coding career.
Popular Programming Languages for Computer Programmers:
- Java
- JavaScript
- Microsoft C#®
Better understand what Computer Programming involves.
9. Network System Administrator
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Job Outlook (2021-2031): 3% growth (Slower than average)
Network system administrators are the guardians of an organization’s computing environment. They maintain network infrastructure and proactively prevent data loss and system failures through regular data backups.
Key responsibilities include ensuring network security, protecting against viruses, and verifying code integrity to safeguard both the network and hardware of the organization’s computer systems.
Popular Programming Languages for Network Administrators:
- Python
- PERL®
- Java
Take a closer look at the role of a Network Administrator.
Which Coding Career Interests You?
Now that you’re familiar with the diverse opportunities to leverage your coding skills, it’s time to build upon your existing foundational knowledge.
While many of these computer programming careers typically require a Bachelor’s degree, even an Associate’s degree combined with portfolio development can open doors to various computer systems design and coding jobs.
Related Articles:
1Burning-Glass.com (analysis of 1,800,750 jobs that require programming skills, June 01, 2019 – May 31, 2020).
2Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [career information accessed May 2023]. Salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. This data does not represent starting salaries, and employment conditions in your area may vary.
Oracle, Java and JavaScript are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation. Python is a registered trademark of the Python Software Foundation. PERL is a registered trademark of The PERL Foundation
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published in December 2016. It has been updated to include information relevant to 2023.
