A Day In The Life of a Programmer

A Day In The Life of a Programmer

Where the world, is your workplace

Computer programming is an exciting field, leading to career opportunities in various sectors and industries. Coders are trained and skilled in developing software, artificial intelligence, and using different programming languages. Programming requires creativity, problem-solving, and mental agility. A coder needs to learn and develop new skills continually. So, it’s no wonder their life generally involves reading code, writing new code for programs, and fixing errors, so the program runs correctly.

Moreover, programming isn’t only about coding. It involves working with stakeholders and other coders in a project, meaning programmers must be problem solvers and good communicators. Want to know more about a programmer’s day-to-day life? Let’s learn more about a coder’s daily life activities, how to become a good programmer, and how much they earn. So, read on!

What Do Programmers or Coders Do Daily?

Typically, a computer programmer or coder writes code for work. However, what exactly does a day look like in the life of a coder? Listed below are a few tasks programmers are expected to perform daily. While job responsibilities may vary based on your position and industry, they can simultaneously be immersed in various coding projects.

Daily tasks may include but are not limited to:

  • Write & Test Code for Programs – A programmer works closely with a software and web developer to write computer code for programs or mobile applications. Often, a coder may have the same responsibilities as a web designer, i.e., ensuring the functionality, feel, and look of new software programs. Writing coding requires effort and involves many trials and errors. Programmers have strong problem-solving and analytical reasoning skills and enjoy using logic to solve complex problems.
  • Update Current Programs – In addition to writing code for new programs, a computer programmer – whether they are a JavaScript programmer, Java developer, or a coder in any other language – also creates and installs updates for apps.  Updates can vary from project to project and include everything from fixing bugs to enhancing functionality for a better user experience. The project can take hours, days, weeks, or even months based on update complexity.
  • Identify and Correct Coding Mistakes – Often, computer programmers help troubleshoot websites or software programs that don’t work correctly. While some coding mistakes are fundamental, requiring time and effort to identify and correct, other coding errors are minute. If not detected and fixed timely, a coding error can damage your entire program considerably. Not only do programmers help identify coding errors in the software, but they also help correct them quickly, so the software works properly.
  • Rewrite Programs for Various Operating Systems – A programmer must rewrite coding daily in multiple languages, so applications and programs become compatible with various operating systems. For instance, OS X and Windows apps and software have different coding. Some coders are trained to write apps in Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) code, working across both Windows and macOS operating systems.
  • Secure A Program Against Cyberattacks – Computer programmers help identify malicious programs and software that are vulnerable to possible cyberattacks or hacks. They can help write good coding, preventing data leaks and security breaches. One report estimates that there are over 2200 cyberattacks in a day. As cyberattacks and crimes increase, so are the demand for various IT jobs, including cyber security experts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), office-based and remote jobs for IT analysts will grow by 35%, adding more new jobs to the field.
  • Consult With Other Managerial Team Members – Coders work with other team members to achieve business goals and requirements. They need to align the software’s intent with recommendations from systems analysts, UX designers, and software engineers.

How To Become a Programmer?

Learning programming can be time-consuming and challenging because you must acquire coding skills. You can learn how to code professionally through online courses, degree programs, certifications, etc., which will help you get a job quickly.

Here are a few different ways to become a professional coder:

College Degree

The traditional way to become a programmer or coder is to gain a four-year college degree. Companies across the world require a bachelor’s degree.

Some common majors include engineering, information technology, computer science, and mathematics. A four-year degree will make you stand out among competitors.

Online Courses

Online courses can be a good option if you’re looking for study-from-home options or flexibility. You can easily learn how to code effectively through an excellent online course.

You can find online programming courses with different price ranges and formats, making them perfect for students who prefer self-paced learning. You can gain coding skills remotely from your house or office without spending much at all.

Learning how to code online can be highly beneficial for people looking to switch professions without leaving their current job.

Bootcamps

Coding bootcamp provides extensive training in coding skills. You can easily complete it anywhere from four months to one year. Many employers worldwide hire Java, Python, and other bootcamp graduates because they’re trained and equipped with the latest skills needed in a modern workforce.

Bootcamps present a practical, budget-friendly learning opportunity that typically includes career development services to help students land Java programming jobs and other types of employment in the industry.

Certification

Believe it or not, the tech industry is rapidly growing and evolving. So, programmers need to update their coding skills. Learning one programming language or coding skill isn’t enough to advance your career.

Looking for a way to level up your programming skills? Choose a specialization or skill and gain professional certification.

How Much Does A Computer Programmer Or Coder Make?

Although a programmer’s salary varies based on the job position, industry, location, etc., the average pay scale is around $65,572. Computer programmers can easily earn more based on skills and experience. That is why SkillGigs created a proprietary calculation we call Real Market Value (RMV) that takes into consideration tenure, location, market demand, and more. The follow are the basic sort of averages you can find without a lot of context.

Listed below are the salaries programmers can make based on experience:

Entry Level

An entry-level programmer out of Houston (SkillGigs’ home base), looking at averages across the RMV, one can make around $55,000/ year on average. The pay scale of entry-level programmers is lower than the average because they have less responsibilities starting off.

Mid-Level

A mid-level coder earns $65,142/year on average. Make sure to improve basics or acquire much-needed technical skills to earn more money.

Senior or Lead Level

The average starting salary of senior-level programmer is around $97,141/ year. They can easily earn more based on their clients and employers.

Conclusion

Programmers are crucial to the success of organizations. They help build tools that allow other members to perform their job effectively and efficiently. In addition, coders help design, update and maintain a company’s technologies.

As a good programmer or coder, you should:

  • Understand the client’s business goals and needs
  • Identify tools to build a solution
  • Determine how to make the project successful and deliver it timely

Do you have proven computer programming skills? Check out SkillGigs and get access to exclusive permanent and contract-based programming jobs. Getting in front of companies and employers has never been easier! Sign up today and get access to better contractual and permanent gigs.

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