5 Top Paying Jobs for Computer Programmers

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5 Lucrative Jobs for Computer Programmers

  • Mobile Applications Developer
  • Business Systems Analyst
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Computer Programmer
  • Applications Architect
There are many excellent jobs out there for a computer programmer. Computer programming is a field that is in high demand. Programming is a vital part of many technology careers. Wages for computer programmers rank highly. Becoming a computer programmer puts candidates in a position where they can choose from a variety of jobs. Here are five top-paying jobs for programmers.

1. Mobile Applications Developer

With the increasing number of people using mobile devices today, mobile applications developers are high in demand. Mobile applications developers have a high knowledge of:
  • database query/scripting languages
  • application development languages
  • information retrieval techniques
  • operating system concepts
  • database design
Programmers with skills in graphic design, objective C and user interface design have excellent career potential. Mobile applications developers also are very familiar with:
  • Visual Basic
  • Java
  • JavaScript
As far as mobile applications, heir duties include:
  • testing
  • coding
  • debugging
  • documenting
  • monitoring
These IT professionals can earn an average salary of $143,500.

2. Business Systems Analyst

Most complex business problems are solved with automated systems. Its business systems analysts who assess these systems to ensure they are working correctly. The increasing reliance on IT and specialized data have increased the demand for business systems analysts. Their duties include:
  • developing and describing the objectives and scope for business systems
  • collaborating with business managers to determine needs and gather pertinent data
  • making software and hardware recommendations to meet the needs of the business
  • providing IT support for compliance and regulatory activities
Business systems analysts earn an average annual salary of $93,250.

3. Computer Systems Analyst

Almost every business has a computer system. This means they have a need for a computer systems analyst to plan, design, install the company’s computer system based on their business needs. They have many duties. Their main duty is to analyze and customize computer systems to meet the information technology needs of the organization. They work closely with:
  • software engineers
  • programmers
  • network security specialists
They help customize and coordinate cost-benefit and return reports. This position requires at least a bachelor’s degree and extensive work experience in this field. Computer analyst earns annual wages as high as $96,000.

4. Computer Programmer

The computer programmer is the backbone of almost every computer system. Why?  Because a computer system would not work without the expertise of a computer programmer. Programmers write and test codes that allow software programs and computer applications to function correctly. They also test new products to ensure they are producing the correct results. If they find errors, they correct the codes and programs. They also update and expand the programs that are currently being used. They are knowledgeable in C++, Java and several other languages. A computer programmer can earn an average annual wage of $82,240 according to a May 2017 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Related Resource: 20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Computer Science

5. Applications Architect

Applications architects must have a strong knowledge of computer programming as well as extensive hands-on experience. They are also familiar with the integration of third-party services into their programming domain. In a small company, the applications architect may also work in the lead applications developer capacity. They coordinate with:
  • business analysts
  • business systems analysts
  • programmers
They help create a program to technically implement a software project into the computer system. Applications architects have the potential to earn an average annual wage of $137,750. Some of the highest-paid technical professionals are computer programmers, according to 2019 Robert Half Technology Salary Guide. Computer programming is an exciting and versatile field. It has excellent wage potential. The IT and computer science industries offer many top-paying jobs for a qualified computer programmer.

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