The Many Faces of a Computer Programmer

A computer programmer, also called a coder or developer, is someone who writes code, which is a set of instructions telling a computer what to do. Programmers can work in many industries, including information technology, engineering, financial services, and even the arts. With such a broad range of career paths, it’s difficult to know where to start when choosing a coding or programming job. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the different programmers and the industries they work in so you can better understand the options available to you.

On a random Thursday search on Indeed.com, there are nearly 1,900 available jobs for programmers, just for remote work, not including tens of thousands more in offices all over the country and the world.

A few careers for computer programmers

Systems Programmers

Systems programmers develop and maintain the code that controls the operations of entire computers or computer networks. They might create code that manages memory allocation, oversees security features, or sets up network protocols. Systems programmers often work in the aerospace and defense industry, as well as in other industries that require large-scale computing resources, such as financial services and nursing.

Application Programmers

Application programmers write code for specific applications or software programs. They might create code for desktop applications, like word processors and spreadsheet programs, or for mobile apps. Application programmers typically work in the retail and consumer goods industry, as well as in the healthcare and education sectors.

Web Developers

Web developers build and maintain websites. They create the code that makes websites look and function the way they do. Web developers typically work in the advertising and marketing industry, as well as in the information technology sector. Some web developers are also self-employed and work as freelancers.

IoT Coders

IoT programming is coding devices and objects to connect and exchange data over the Internet. IoT programmers use a variety of coding languages to create software that can be embedded into IoT devices. This software allows IoT devices to communicate with each other and with other internet-connected devices and systems. IoT programming requires a deep understanding of both hardware and software, as well as networking and security. IoT programmers must be able to code for a wide range of devices, from sensors and actuators to controllers and gateways. They must also be able to work with a variety of protocols and standards, such as HTTP, MQTT, and CoAP. IoT programming is a complex process, but it is essential for creating the connected world of tomorrow.

Computer programming is a broad field with many specialties. In this blog post, we’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in coding or programming, research the different programmers and find one that best suits your skills and interests. With so many options available, there’s sure to be a perfect fit for you!