Computer Programmers

Information Technology · Programming and Software Development

Job zone 4: considerable preparationO*NET 15-1251.00

Pay and outlook shown for

median pay per year, Texas (no San Antonio figure is published for this career)

$60k10th$99kMedian$143k90th

New workers start near $60,120; experienced workers reach $143,300. About 7,620 people do this job in Texas.

Job outlook

Alamo region (San Antonio and 12 surrounding counties), Texas Workforce Commission projection 2024 to 2034; U.S. figures from the BLS.

Employment change: +13.6%; Alamo region, 943 to 1,071 jobs · U.S. -6%
Openings a year: 66; in the Alamo region, from growth and people leaving · U.S. 5,500
Employed in 2024: 943; in the Alamo region · U.S. 121,200

Typical entry education: Bachelor's degree

Alamo Colleges programs that lead here

10 programs, with the college that teaches each.

Apply to Alamo Colleges

Skills this career uses

The skills O*NET rates most important for the job, with how much of each the work needs on a 1 to 7 scale.

Programming4.9
Active Listening4.0
Critical Thinking3.9
Complex Problem Solving3.9
Quality Control Analysis3.5
Reading Comprehension3.5
Systems Analysis3.3
Writing3.3

What the work is

Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.
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.
Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.

Education people in this job have

Share of workers by highest education, from O*NET surveys. It shows what others did, not what you must do.

Some college3%
Associate degree9%
Bachelor's degree88%

Job zone 4, considerable preparation: Usually a bachelor's degree, sometimes a strong associate plus experience.

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