The digital world runs on code. From the simplest mobile game to the most complex enterprise software, everything is built upon meticulously crafted lines of code. It’s a fascinating reality that these combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols, when arranged with precision, can power entire systems and applications that shape our daily lives.
Perhaps you’ve already experienced this fascination firsthand. Maybe you’ve tinkered with coding yourself, learning some basic programming languages and discovering the creative potential within code. This initial spark of curiosity can ignite a path towards a fulfilling and dynamic career in the tech industry.
Launching Your Career with Programming Language Skills
If you find yourself drawn to the world of coding and are considering turning your self-taught skills into a professional path, you’re in a field brimming with opportunity. The demand for individuals skilled in programming languages is strong across various sectors. A Career In Programming Language opens doors to roles such as software developers, computer programmers, systems analysts, and many more, all vital to the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Whether you envision yourself deeply immersed in writing code daily or leveraging your programming expertise to influence strategic business decisions, numerous career avenues await. Let’s explore a range of coding careers that utilize programming languages at their core, spanning software development, data science, mobile applications, and beyond.
9 Promising Careers Leveraging Programming Languages
What specific programming jobs are available? What responsibilities do they entail? And what can you expect in terms of salary for a computer coding job? We’ve compiled insights to answer these questions and provide a clearer picture of the career landscape.
By analyzing real-time job market data encompassing over 1.8 million job postings that prioritize programming skills, we’ve identified nine common and promising career paths to consider. Let’s delve into each of these roles to determine which might best align with your interests and career aspirations within the realm of programming languages.
1. Software Application Developer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 25% (Significantly faster than average)
Software and mobile application developers are the architects behind the applications we use daily on smartphones, tablets, and various mobile platforms. They are tasked with the creation, testing, and refinement of these applications, ensuring they meet user needs and perform seamlessly.
This career path is exceptionally well-suited for individuals who possess a holistic, “big picture” perspective and thrive in collaborative environments, working alongside teams to transform concepts into tangible applications. A solid grasp of fundamental coding principles and a natural aptitude for mathematical concepts are crucial for success in this dynamic field.
Top Programming Languages for Software Application Developers:
- Java®
- JavaScript®
- Python®
Explore in detail: What Does a Software Developer Do?
2. Web Developer
- Typical Education: Associate’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 23% (Significantly faster than average)
The visual appeal and functional effectiveness of a website are directly attributable to the work of web developers. While all programming careers demand patience and precision, web development often offers a more immediate sense of accomplishment.
Web developers are adept at understanding client requirements and employing problem-solving skills to construct optimal websites for businesses. They utilize a range of programming languages and information technology infrastructures, sometimes integrating new software solutions into their web development projects. The ability to showcase a strong portfolio of past projects and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of coding languages are key assets for web developers.
Leading Programming Languages for Web Developers:
- JavaScript
- Java
- HTML5
Learn more about: Everything About Becoming a Web Developer
3. Computer Network Architect
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 4% (Around average)
Computer network architects are responsible for managing and optimizing a company’s data communication networks. They design and implement network systems, presenting plans to company leadership and overseeing the integration and optimization of both hardware and software components.
Their work can encompass Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and Intranets, ranging from small networks connecting a few offices to vast cloud infrastructures. This role requires a blend of strategic planning and technical expertise in network technologies and programming languages relevant to network management.
Common Programming Languages for Computer Network Architects:
- PERL®
- Tcl
- Python
4. Database Administrator
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 9% (Faster than average)
Database administrators (DBAs) play a critical role in securing, organizing, and maintaining vast quantities of data for organizations. They ensure data integrity, accessibility, and performance across online platforms.
If you are passionate about data analysis, information retrieval, and enjoy tackling complex problems under pressure, a career as a DBA could be a strong fit. This role demands meticulous attention to detail and proficiency in database management systems and related programming languages.
Key Programming Languages for Database Administrators:
- Python
- Java
- Oracle® PL/SQL
Dive deeper into: What is a Database Administrator?
5. Computer Systems Analyst
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 9% (Faster than average)
Computer systems analysts act as strategic liaisons, aligning a company’s business objectives with its information technology (IT) infrastructure. They evaluate existing computer systems and networks, recommending upgrades and improvements to meet evolving business needs.
Success in this programming-adjacent career requires not only a solid foundation in computer coding but also a strong understanding of business operations and strategic planning. They bridge the gap between technical capabilities and business goals, ensuring IT solutions effectively support organizational strategies.
Popular Programming Languages for Computer Systems Analysts:
- JavaScript
- Python
Understand more about: What is a Computer Systems Analyst?
6. Software Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 25% (Significantly faster than average)
Software QA engineers are integral to the software development lifecycle, focusing on ensuring the quality and reliability of software products. They are involved from the initial stages, documenting defects, designing comprehensive test plans and scenarios, and creating user manuals for new software releases.
They also conduct thorough reviews of existing software designs to identify potential functionality issues and areas for improvement. Attention to detail and a systematic approach are vital for this role.
Frequently Used Programming Languages for Software QA Engineers:
- Java
- Python
Explore the role of: What Does a QA Analyst Do?
7. Business Intelligence Analyst
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 11% (Faster than average)
While programming skills are advantageous, they are not always the primary focus for business intelligence analysts. This role is geared towards individuals who excel in data analysis and market research, working behind the scenes to gather and interpret data related to software products and industry trends.
They identify software solutions that can effectively address business challenges and drive strategic initiatives. If you appreciate the principles of coding but prefer a career that doesn’t solely revolve around it, business intelligence analysis could be a compelling option.
Common Programming Languages for Business Intelligence Analysts:
- R
- Java
Gain insights into: What is Business Intelligence?
8. Computer Programmer
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): -10% (Slower than average)
Computer programmers are the core coders, tasked with writing and debugging software programs. They translate workflow charts and algorithmic formulas into executable code, meticulously refining programs until they are error-free and function as intended.
Attention to detail and exceptional patience are essential qualities for success in this coding-centric career. They are the builders, line by line, of the software that powers our digital world.
Popular Programming Languages for Computer Programmers:
- Java
- JavaScript
- Microsoft C#®
Understand more about: Is Computer Programming Hard?
9. Network System Administrator
- Typical Education: Bachelor’s Degree
- Projected Job Growth (2021-2031): 3% (Slower than average)
Network system administrators are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and security of an organization’s computing environment. They ensure network stability, prevent system failures through data backups, and implement robust security measures to protect against viruses and cyber threats.
Maintaining network security and ensuring the integrity of both hardware and software are paramount. They are the guardians of the network infrastructure, ensuring smooth and secure operations.
Frequently Used Programming Languages for Network Administrators:
- Python
- PERL®
- Java
Explore the responsibilities of: What Does a Network Administrator Do?
Charting Your Course in Computer Coding Jobs
Now that you have a broader understanding of the diverse opportunities available leveraging your coding skills, the next step is to build upon your existing knowledge and explore these career paths further.
While a Bachelor’s degree is often a standard requirement for many computer programming careers, even pursuing an Associate’s degree and developing a strong portfolio can be a significant step towards landing entry-level positions in computer systems design or coding-related jobs. The world of programming languages offers a multitude of paths – explore which one resonates most with your passion and skills!
Related Articles:
1 Burning-Glass.com (analysis of 1,800,750 jobs that require programming skills, June 01, 2019 – May 31, 2020).
2 Bureau 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 since been updated to include information relevant to 2023.
