Software Developers, Applications and Systems Software

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.

Monitor functioning of equipment to ensure system operates in conformance with specifications.78
Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.77
Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures, programming, or documentation.73
Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.69
Modify existing software to correct errors, adapt it to new hardware, or upgrade interfaces and improve performance.69
Coordinate installation of software system.69
Prepare reports or correspondence concerning project specifications, activities, or status.67
Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.65
Store, retrieve, and manipulate data for analysis of system capabilities and requirements.65
Design, develop and modify software systems, using scientific analysis and mathematical models to predict and measure outcomes and consequences of design.64
Determine system performance standards.63
Supervise the work of programmers, technologists and technicians and other engineering and scientific personnel.63

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Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.59
Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.58
Supervise and assign work to programmers, designers, technologists, technicians, or other engineering or scientific personnel.53
Obtain and evaluate information on factors such as reporting formats required, costs, or security needs to determine hardware configuration.52
Train users to use new or modified equipment.48

Skills

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

Programming75
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Critical Thinking72
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Judgment and Decision Making66
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Active Learning63
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Reading Comprehension63
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Systems Analysis63
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Active Listening60
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 Solving60
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Systems Evaluation60
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Technology Design60
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Operations Analysis56
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Writing56
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

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Speaking53
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Social Perceptiveness47
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Mathematics44
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Operations Monitoring44
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Persuasion44
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Quality Control Analysis44
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Learning Strategies41
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Negotiation41
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Troubleshooting41
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Management of Personnel Resources31
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Equipment Selection28
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Science28
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Operation and Control25
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Installation22
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Management of Financial Resources19
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources16
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Equipment Maintenance6
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Repairing3
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Knowledge

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

Computers and Electronics94
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Customer and Personal Service64
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.
Mathematics64
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
English Language57
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Education and Training46
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Engineering and Technology45
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.
Design43
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Telecommunications41
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Production and Processing39
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Public Safety and Security39
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.
Economics and Accounting37
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Personnel and Human Resources34
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.

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Administration and Management31
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.
Sales and Marketing30
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.
Administrative28
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Communications and Media19
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Law and Government19
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Transportation18
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Psychology15
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.
Mechanical10
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Sociology and Anthropology8
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Geography7
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.
Physics7
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.
Chemistry6
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.
Biology4
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Foreign Language4
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.
Philosophy and Theology4
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.
Building and Construction3
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 Production3
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
History and Archeology1
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Therapy and Counseling1
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Fine Arts0
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Medicine and Dentistry0
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.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Deductive Reasoning69
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Comprehension69
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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.
Written Comprehension69
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Information Ordering66
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).
Category Flexibility63
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Inductive Reasoning63
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Written Expression63
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Speech Recognition60
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Fluency of Ideas56
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).

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Originality53
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.
Selective Attention53
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Speech Clarity50
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Mathematical Reasoning47
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Flexibility of Closure41
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Perceptual Speed41
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.
Number Facility38
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Speed of Closure38
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Far Vision35
The ability to see details at a distance.
Visualization35
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Time Sharing25
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Visual Color Discrimination25
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Trunk Strength22
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.
Arm-Hand Steadiness19
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Auditory Attention19
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Finger Dexterity19
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Hearing Sensitivity19
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Wrist-Finger Speed19
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Manual Dexterity16
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Control Precision13
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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.
Dynamic Strength10
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Response Orientation3
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.
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.
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 Computers90
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Processing Information85
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems84
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Thinking Creatively83
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates81
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Analyzing Data or Information80
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge78
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work77
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Getting Information76
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards74
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Documenting/Recording Information70
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Developing Objectives and Strategies69
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings68
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events67
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others65
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships64
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Scheduling Work and Activities58
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others57
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Training and Teaching Others46
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Coaching and Developing Others43
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information42
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People40
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization38
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.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others35
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others34
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Performing Administrative Activities33
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Assisting and Caring for Others32
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Controlling Machines and Processes32
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Developing and Building Teams31
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources28
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials27
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment17
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.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates17
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Performing General Physical Activities17
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.
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment16
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.
Selling or Influencing Others15
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Staffing Organizational Units13
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Handling and Moving Objects5
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment3
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public3
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment2
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

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

Attention to Detail89
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Innovation84
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Dependability80
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Intellectual Curiosity78
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Achievement Orientation71
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.
Adaptability70
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Integrity60
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Cautiousness59
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Perseverance59
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity57
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Initiative53
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Self-Confidence49
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.

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Stress Tolerance42
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Cooperation40
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
Leadership Orientation38
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Social Orientation29
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Self-Control23
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Sincerity22
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Humility19
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
Optimism16
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Empathy14
A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feelings at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

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

Investigative84
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.
Conventional77
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.
Realistic44
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.
Artistic23
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.
Enterprising15
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.
Social14
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.

Spend Time Sitting
- Continually or almost continually95%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important71%
- Important15%
E-Mail
- Once a year or more but not every month13%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom41%
- Some freedom46%
- Limited freedom13%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important41%
- Very important44%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
Contact With Others
- Constant contact with others35%
- Contact with others about half the time17%
- Occasional contact with others15%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Extremely important16%
- Very important46%
Time Pressure
- Every day13%
- Once a week or more but not every day40%
- Once a month or more but not every week34%
Telephone Conversations
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility13%
- High responsibility50%
- Limited responsibility30%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks

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Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
Duration of Typical Work Week
- 40 hours90%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive40%
- Moderately competitive30%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
- Once a month or more but not every week16%
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never13%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Less than half the time16%
- Never42%
Consequence of Error
- Fairly serious30%
- Not serious at all13%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Moderate results49%
- Minor results31%
- No results13%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Once a year or more but not every month39%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated48%
- Slightly automated17%
- Not at all automated31%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility13%
- No responsibility58%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
Conflict Situations
Physical Proximity
- Slightly close (e.g., shared office)31%
- I don't work near other people (beyond 100 ft.)61%
Public Speaking
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a year or more but not every month45%
- Never55%
Spend Time Standing
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Important16%
- Not important at all83%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Less than half the time27%
- Never72%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
Exposed to High Places
Written Letters and Memos
- Never90%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month14%
- Never84%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Never94%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Never95%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Never97%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never98%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never98%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
- Never95%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Never98%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Never98%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Never96%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Never98%
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Never98%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never97%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)98%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never100%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Never99%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Never99%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Never100%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never100%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Never99%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Never99%

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
Master’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Development environment software
Apache Kafka, Apache Maven, Oracle Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition J2EE, Oracle SQL Developer
Data base user interface and query software
Airtable, Blackboard software, GraphQL, Prometheus
Object or component oriented development software
Apache Spark, jQuery, Scala, TypeScript
Web platform development software
Bootstrap, React, Spring Framework, Vue.js
Operating system software
Apple iOS, Google Android, Microsoft Windows Server, UNIX Shell
Data base management system software
Amazon DynamoDB, Oracle Database, Oracle PL/SQL, Redis
Program testing software
Hewlett Packard LoadRunner, JUnit, Selenium, SonarQube
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
Oracle PeopleSoft, SAP ERP, SAP software, Workday software
Application server software
Atlassian Bitbucket, GitLab, Red Hat OpenShift, Spring Boot
Enterprise application integration software
Jenkins CI, Microsoft Power Automate, Microsoft Power Platform software, Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services SSIS
Configuration management software
Chef, IBM Terraform, Perforce Helix software, Puppet
Analytical or scientific software
IBM SPSS Statistics, SAS, TensorFlow, The MathWorks MATLAB
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe Creative Cloud software, Adobe Illustrator, JamBoard, Trimble SketchUp Pro
Business intelligence and data analysis software
Alteryx software, Google Looker Analytics, Microsoft Power BI, Tableau
Data base reporting software
Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS, Oracle Business Intelligence Discoverer, SAP Business Intelligence, SAP Crystal Reports
Cloud-based management software
Amazon Web Services AWS CloudFormation, IBM WebSphere MQ, Oracle Cloud software, Splunk Enterprise
Video conferencing software
Cisco Webex, Google Meet, LogMeIn GoToMeeting, Zoom
Video creation and editing software
Adobe After Effects, Flipgrid, Screencastify, YouTube
Transaction server software
Customer information control system CICS, IBM Middleware, Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS), Object Management Group Object Request Broker
Word processing software
3M Post-it App, Google Docs, Microsoft OneNote, Microsoft Word
Graphical user interface development software
Figma, Grafana Labs Grafana Cloud, Graphical user interface GUI builder software, Salesforce Visualforce
Web page creation and editing software
Adobe Dreamweaver, Google Sites, Social media sites, WordPress
Project management software
Atlassian Confluence, Microsoft Team Foundation Server, Microsoft Teams, Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Electronic mail software
Google Gmail, IBM Notes, Microsoft Exchange, Microsoft Outlook
Cloud-based data access and sharing software
Dropbox, Google Drive, Platform as a service PaaS, Slack
Metadata management software
Informatica software, Quest Erwin Data Modeler, Talend Data Fabric
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Document management system software, Microsoft SharePoint
File versioning software
Apache Subversion SVN, Git, Version control software
Customer relationship management CRM software
Blackbaud The Raiser's Edge, Oracle Eloqua, Salesforce software
Transaction security and virus protection software
Encryption software, McAfee, NortonLifeLock cybersecurity software
Requirements analysis and system architecture software
IBM Rational RequisitePro, Requirements management software, Unified modeling language UML
Spreadsheet software
Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel
Content workflow software
Atlassian JIRA, Emerald Software Group Emerald Green Office
Network monitoring software
Nagios, Wireshark
Access software
Citrix cloud computing software, PuTTY
Object oriented data base management software
Hibernate ORM, PostgreSQL
Desktop publishing software
Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Publisher
Office suite software
LibreOffice, Microsoft Office software
Network security and virtual private network VPN equipment software
Firewall software, Virtual private networking VPN software
Instant messaging software
Blink, GroupMe
Financial analysis software
Delphi Technology, Oracle E-Business Suite Financials
Backup or archival software
Backup and archival software, Veritas NetBackup
Presentation software
Google Slides, Microsoft PowerPoint
Data mining software
Google Analytics, Snowflake
Storage networking software
Amazon Simple Storage Service S3, Storage area network SAN software
Information retrieval or search software
Apache Avro, LexisNexis
Filesystem software
File server software
Authentication server software
Single sign-on SSO
Enterprise system management software
IBM Power Systems software
Expert system software
Ansible software
Network operation system software
IBM z/OS operating systems
Clustering software
VMware
Computer based training software
Moodle
Desktop communications software
Skype
Communications server software
IBM Domino
Portal server software
Apache HTTP Server
Network conferencing software
LogMeIn GoToWebinar
Internet directory services software
Microsoft Active Directory
Administration software
Software distribution management software
Sales and marketing software
Marketo Marketing Automation
Device drivers or system software
Microsoft DirectX
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Platform interconnectivity software
Migration software
Map creation software
ESRI ArcGIS software
Procedure management software
Apache Airflow
Switch or router software
Border Gateway Protocol BGP
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

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

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Monitor computer system performance to ensure proper operation.
Analyze project data to determine specifications or requirements.
Develop testing routines or procedures.
Manage information technology projects or system activities.
Modify software programs to improve performance.
Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.
Coordinate software or hardware installation.
Communicate project information to others.
Assess database performance.
Prepare data for analysis.
Apply mathematical principles or statistical approaches to solve problems in scientific or applied fields.
Design software applications.

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Supervise information technology personnel.
Develop performance metrics or standards related to information technology.
Provide technical support for software maintenance or use.
Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
Assign duties or work schedules to employees.
Teach others to use computer equipment or hardware.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Application Developer
Commercial Drone Software Developer
Devops Engineer (Nof)
Software Developer (Nof)

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