Computer Programmers

Job Zone

Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.86
Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.85
Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.84
Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.79
Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.76
Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.74
Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.65
Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.64
Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.63
Train subordinates in programming and program coding.63
Perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer.57
Write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users.57

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Investigate whether networks, workstations, the central processing unit of the system, or peripheral equipment are responding to a program's instructions.57
Assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel.56
Develop Web sites.56
Train users on the use and function of computer programs.49
Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods.46

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Programming94
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Active Listening69
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Complex Problem Solving69
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Critical Thinking69
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Quality Control Analysis63
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Reading Comprehension60
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Systems Analysis60
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Judgment and Decision Making56
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Writing56
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Learning53
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Mathematics53
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Operations Analysis53
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.

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Social Perceptiveness53
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Speaking53
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Systems Evaluation53
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.
Coordination50
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Monitoring50
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Science44
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Technology Design44
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Management of Personnel Resources41
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Persuasion41
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Instructing38
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies35
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Operations Monitoring31
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Service Orientation31
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Troubleshooting31
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Negotiation28
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Management of Financial Resources25
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources25
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Installation6
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Operation and Control3
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Equipment Maintenance0
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Equipment Selection0
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Repairing0
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Computers and Electronics97
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Mathematics63
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Engineering and Technology62
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
English Language60
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Customer and Personal Service58
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Administration and Management57
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Design47
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Education and Training45
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Administrative44
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Geography44
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Production and Processing39
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Economics and Accounting37
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.

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Communications and Media36
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Telecommunications35
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Physics28
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Sales and Marketing27
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Psychology26
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Personnel and Human Resources25
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Sociology and Anthropology25
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Transportation17
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Foreign Language16
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Fine Arts14
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Mechanical13
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Medicine and Dentistry12
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Public Safety and Security11
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Law and Government10
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Chemistry4
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
History and Archeology2
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling2
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Philosophy and Theology1
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Biology0
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Building and Construction0
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Food Production0
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Written Comprehension75
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Near Vision72
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Comprehension72
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Deductive Reasoning69
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning69
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Information Ordering69
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity69
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Oral Expression63
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Written Expression56
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Mathematical Reasoning53
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Number Facility53
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.

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Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Speech Clarity53
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Flexibility of Closure50
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Fluency of Ideas50
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
Originality50
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Category Flexibility47
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Perceptual Speed47
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Visualization47
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Far Vision38
The ability to see details at a distance.
Finger Dexterity31
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Time Sharing31
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Arm-Hand Steadiness25
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Auditory Attention25
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Manual Dexterity25
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Speed of Closure25
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Visual Color Discrimination25
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Control Precision22
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Hearing Sensitivity19
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Trunk Strength16
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Depth Perception13
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Wrist-Finger Speed10
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Dynamic Strength6
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Extent Flexibility0
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Multilimb Coordination0
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Rate Control0
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time0
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation0
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Spatial Orientation0
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Speed of Limb Movement0
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina0
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers99
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Processing Information90
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Analyzing Data or Information88
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Getting Information88
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems86
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Thinking Creatively84
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events81
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge79
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates78
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information72
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Documenting/Recording Information71
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Developing Objectives and Strategies65
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work65
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Developing and Building Teams64
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards64
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others63
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships61
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings61
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others61
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others52
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization45
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People45
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Training and Teaching Others45
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Coaching and Developing Others44
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials40
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates39
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources35
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Scheduling Work and Activities34
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Assisting and Caring for Others29
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others29
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Selling or Influencing Others29
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Performing Administrative Activities27
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment26
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Staffing Organizational Units22
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment20
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Controlling Machines and Processes17
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Performing General Physical Activities16
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public15
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Handling and Moving Objects13
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment13
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment8
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail100
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability79
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Intellectual Curiosity73
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Innovation65
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Cautiousness61
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Achievement Orientation58
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Perseverance56
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity50
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Adaptability46
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Initiative39
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Integrity39
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Stress Tolerance36
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.

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Self-Confidence31
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Cooperation24
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Humility17
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Sincerity8
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Self-Control6
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Empathy4
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.
Optimism2
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Social Orientation1
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Conventional82
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Investigative68
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Realistic40
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Artistic25
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Enterprising18
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social16
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

E-Mail
- Every day100%
Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually90%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important64%
- Fairly important17%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important41%
- Very important40%
- Important17%
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others66%
- Occasional contact with others20%
Time Pressure
- Every day40%
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week32%
Duration of Typical Work Week
- 40 hours24%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive46%
- Moderately competitive39%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom28%
- Some freedom29%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom25%
- Some freedom31%

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Telephone Conversations
- Every day33%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- More than half the time20%
- Never36%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results20%
- Important results17%
- Moderate results22%
- Minor results40%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Important28%
- Not important at all31%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important14%
- Very important11%
- Fairly important17%
- Not important at all16%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a month or more but not every week51%
- Never29%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility12%
- High responsibility24%
- Limited responsibility39%
- No responsibility20%
Consequence of Error
- Very serious22%
- Not serious at all17%
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)30%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)31%
Conflict Situations
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Never23%
Public Speaking
- Once a week or more but not every day23%
- Once a month or more but not every week22%
- Once a year or more but not every month36%
- Never19%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never35%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important14%
- Important22%
- Fairly important29%
- Not important at all35%
Degree of Automation
- Not at all automated15%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Never26%
Written Letters and Memos
- Once a year or more but not every month26%
- Never58%
Spend Time Standing
- Less than half the time49%
- Never45%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Less than half the time45%
- Never48%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- No responsibility83%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time26%
- Never74%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
Outdoors, Under Cover
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time20%
- Never80%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never88%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Never90%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all93%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Never95%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)96%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Never95%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Never98%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Never97%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Never97%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never100%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never100%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Never100%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Never100%
Exposed to High Places
- Never100%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never100%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never100%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Never100%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Never100%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree
Associate’s degree or other 2-year degree
Some college, no degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Development environment software
Apache Kafka, Apache Maven, Go, Microsoft PowerShell
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Object or component oriented development software
Apache Spark, jQuery, Scala, Swift
Web platform development software
Django, Google Angular, React, Spring Framework
Data base management system software
Amazon DynamoDB, Elasticsearch, MongoDB, Oracle PL/SQL
Operating system software
Bash, Microsoft Windows Server, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, UNIX Shell
Data base user interface and query software
Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud EC2, Apache Hive, IBM DB2, Transact-SQL
Compiler and decompiler software
Command interpreters, Inline code expander software, Retargetable compiler, Threaded code compiler
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle Fusion Applications, Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP software
Enterprise application integration software
Extensible markup language XML, IBM InfoSphere DataStage, Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services SSIS, SAP NetWeaver BW
Program testing software
Hewlett Packard LoadRunner, JUnit, Selenium, Symbolic debugger software
Application server software
Docker, GitHub, Red Hat OpenShift, Spring Boot
Analytical or scientific software
IBM SPSS Statistics, Minitab, SAS, The MathWorks MATLAB
Configuration management software
Chef, Perforce Helix software, Puppet, Revision control software
Business intelligence and data analysis software
IBM Cognos Impromptu, Oracle Business Intelligence Enterprise Edition, Qlik Tech QlikView, Tableau
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Network intrusion prevention systems NIPS, Snort, Wireshark
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA, Emerald Software Group Emerald Green Office, Workflow software
Object oriented data base management software
Hibernate ORM, Microsoft Visual FoxPro, PostgreSQL
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft SharePoint, Virage VS Archive
Graphical user interface development software
Basis BBx VisualPRO/5, Graphical user interface GUI design software, Salesforce Visualforce
Computer aided design CAD software
Bentley MicroStation, Computer aided design and drafting CADD software, Dassault Systemes CATIA
Data base reporting software
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS, ReCrystallize Crystal Reports, SAP Crystal Reports
Cloud-based management software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation, IBM WebSphere, Splunk Enterprise
Web page creation and editing software
Adobe Dreamweaver, CoffeeCup The HTML Editor, Microsoft FrontPage
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, Geographic information system GIS software
Electronic mail software
IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software, Microsoft Systems Management Server
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN, Git
Financial analysis software
Delphi Technology, Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Project management software
Atlassian Confluence, Microsoft Project
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Metadata management software
Quest Erwin Data Modeler
Medical software
Epic Systems
Accounting software
Tax software
Access software
Citrix cloud computing software
Expert system software
Ansible software
Clustering software
VMware
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Desktop publishing software
Microsoft Publisher
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Word processing software
Microsoft Word
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Virtual private networking VPN software
Transaction security and virus protection software
McAfee
Human resources software
Human resource management software HRMS
Backup or archival software
Veritas NetBackup
Data mining software
Google Analytics
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
Unified modeling language UML
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3
Industrial control software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Modify software programs to improve performance.
Write computer programming code.
Test software performance.
Resolve computer software problems.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Develop diagrams or flow charts of system operation.
Develop models of information or communications systems.
Document design or development procedures.
Train others in computer interface or software use.
Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.
Prepare instruction manuals.
Assign duties or work schedules to employees.

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Manage information technology projects or system activities.
Supervise information technology personnel.
Design websites or web applications.
Develop computer or online applications.
Teach others to use computer equipment or hardware.
Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Computer Programmer
Programmer, Engineer & Scientific
Prompt Engineer

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology