Computer programmers are important IT professionals. They have the key role in the development of languages and instructions of computers, so as to enable its proper function and operation. They help in resolving all of the problems related to computers and also the test of logic that is present in the system. The IT programmers role and also the role of programs have increased with the advancements made in technologies, whether in computing or in language. The background and the responsibility of an IT or Information Technology programmer vary with the variation in companies and agencies employing them.
The basic job profile of an IT programmer is to instruct and enable the computer to function. The duration of writing the program can go up to few hours to even years as per the nature of the particular program. Programmers in collaboration of team work towards the process. The designs made by the software engineers are taken by the programmers and then turned into computer instructions and functions developing the program.
Programmers also must know how to change programs and codes from the existing ones. The categorization of programmers is into application programmers and systems programmers. The former does the development or the modification of programs, whereas the latter work within a broader aspect like networking, development of computer, operation of systems, etc. In the present day there is a rise of popularity in the programming related to software packages. These software programmers in the IT sector work in collaboration with specialists in the creation of packaged software or customized software. For example, management of finances, games, programs related to education, etc.
The requirement of a set of skills is in variation as per the fields. The rise in this IT field as programmers has paved a competitive field for all the applicants. It would be better if a professional had the skills of a special language involving various technical aspects like a GUI or graphic user interface. Then there should also be the possession of business managerial skills and skills acquired through various internships and related programs.
Information Technology is a field where the task is specialized and therefore experience and education qualification is in demand while employing in this field. An applicant would require at least a bachelor's degree or a similar degree; along with it a computer programming certificate of 2 years is needed. Many IT programmers have associate degrees. Then many institutions and colleges offer various degree courses related to computer information and also science courses required in this field.
Employers are on the lookout for IT programmers having experience and specialization in this field. For specialized training one can enroll in technical courses offered by many institutions. Degrees and certificates are helpful but employers prefer professionals who have practical experience in the field and also acquire a vocational certificate in computer programming. Some applicants can also have a computer science degree.
Applicants qualified as programmers must have both logical and analytical skills, combined with the creativity and patience needed in designing programs. Configuration of databases including Sybase, DB2, and Oracle and various systems of operation should be known by a programmer. These professionals are known for their sophistication and also for their abstract technical skills and forte. A programmer can also advance in this field of IT by achieving a post as chief manager and also a supervisor. All these depend on the skills and prior knowledge of a programmer.
This particular IT field in programming is estimated to grow at a very equal rate along with the other occupations in the next few years. There will be rapid growth in fields specializing in designing and software programming. The turnover of jobs would open many doors to opportunities for the IT programmers.
The salaries of IT programmers usually range between $35,000 and $100,000. The average salary in the year 2002 was around $60,000.
