Programming Jobs: A Guide to Jobs You Can Get as a Coder

Coding jobs are becoming increasingly popular because they offer competitive salaries and high job security. You can learn what it takes to progress into a computer programming career through several learning methods. Read our guide to learn about the most in-demand coding jobs, their median salaries, and how to learn the basics of coding. 

What Is a Coding Job?

A coding job is a tech profession that uses computer programming skills to create mobile apps, software, websites, and more. Programming careers require extensive tech knowledge, which is part of why they pay so well. Coders can enter many different fields like data science, machine learning, cyber security, and web development. 

How Much Do Coding Jobs Pay?

Computer programmer jobs pay an average salary of $89,190, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS also reports that software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers earn $110,140 per year. Overall, most coding jobs pay much higher than average.

The median salary for coding jobs will change according to your education, experience, and profession. For example, if you have a master’s degree, you will earn much more than someone with an associate degree. Salaries can also vary by location and the job demand in your area.

The Most In-Demand Coding Jobs 2021

If you want to start your journey from scratch or shift to a career in tech, it’s best to choose a job that’s in-demand. This offers job security for the future as well as a generous salary. Below is a list of the most in-demand coding jobs and how you can get them. 

API Engineer

API Engineer Salary: $143,766

As an API engineer, your job is about designing, building, implementing, and managing API applications. These engineers write code and use existing APIs or create new APIs from start to finish, depending on the client’s or management’s requests. You will also oversee data warehousing and make cloud data transfers more efficient. 

These experts know multiple common programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and Scala. It’s also vital to learn network security, cloud platforms, and database management. The education requirement for this career is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a similar subject. 

Applications Architect

Applications Architect Salary: $140,789

Applications architects oversee the design and development of software applications. These professionals test and monitor the entire development process and document each stage. It’s also vital for them to determine how software applications are used and how the data is consumed.

Professionals in this field need advanced skills in common programming languages like Python, Java, and R programming. They should have analytical skills and high attention to detail. The education required for this profession includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field. 

Backend Engineer

Backend Engineer Salary: $126,880

For this job, you will manage all the server-side functions of a website. This includes using your coding skills to write server-side scripts, create the structure for every software application, and build functioning APIs. UX designers and front end engineers will use these APIs to fulfill their responsibilities.

Training in common programming languages like Python, Java, PHP, and SQL is required for this job. Employers also look for tech professionals with impressive interpersonal, problem-solving, and collaborative skills. The required education for this career is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Programming or Computer Science.

Cyber Security Engineer

Cyber Security Engineer: $120,708

Cyber security engineers plan, design, build, implement, and oversee all network security operations. They handle security breaches, troubleshoot network issues, and make recommendations to stakeholders on the security infrastructure. Because of these professionals, companies can keep hackers at bay.

Cyber security engineers must be meticulous, analytical, and creative. They should also have outstanding communication skills. You also need to know JavaScript, Python, CSS, HTML, and C++. Ideally, you should have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Cyber Security. 

Full Stack Developer

Full Stack Developer: $102,744

Full stack developers develop servers and databases, design user interfaces, and maintain front end website architecture. These professionals ensure websites and mobile platforms are coded correctly and function as intended. 

Full stack developers usually need to have a bachelor’s degree, but they can also attend a coding bootcamp instead. For this career, you need to learn HTML, CSS, backend programming, and GitHub. The soft skills you need include problem-solving, patience, and creativity. 

Software Engineer

Software Engineer Salary: $99,729

Software engineers help organizations like insurance companies, tech organizations, and even healthcare facilities improve the quality of their systems. To accomplish this, professionals identify system issues and patterns, make system recommendations, and design and develop new software. 

You need to have programming skills, teamwork capabilities, software development knowledge, and communication skills. The required education for this career is a bachelor’s degree or a coding bootcamp certificate. 

ERP Technical Developer

ERP Technical Developer Salary: $99,270

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) technical developers primarily work on enterprise resource development software. This job entails customizing ERP software, curating reports on employee data, and ensuring software fulfills usability requirements. These developers also maintain software guidelines and update them when needed.

These professionals learn database management, project management, and common programming languages. Professionals are typically analytical quick-thinkers who have excellent communication skills. The education requirement for this job is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology or Computer Science. 

Cloud Computing Analyst

Cloud Computing Analyst Salary: $97,989

Cloud computing analysts help a company manage and design its cloud computing systems, applications, and procedures. These experts analyze system weaknesses, suggest system improvements, recommend the best-suited cloud computing technology, and deliver design input. These analysts also work closely with company stakeholders.

The education requirement for a cloud computing analyst is a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or a related field. You need to understand common programming languages, network security, and database management. It’s also essential to have soft skills like leadership and communication. 

Computer Systems Engineer

Computer Systems Engineer Salary: $75,302

If you become a computer systems engineer, you will manage operating systems, use system management tools, identify software security risks, and research ways to optimize current operations. Computer systems engineers frequently test new software systems to make sure they are as efficient as possible.

You need skills in coding, network security, and database management. It’s just as crucial to have time management, communication, project management, and customer service skills. The required education you need for this position is a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science. 

Web Developer

Web Developer Salary: $75,073

Web developers create and manage websites, write and test code, audit websites for coding errors and bugs, and troubleshoot website problems. You will create and test applications for websites, present designs to stakeholders, and monitor web traffic. This career option is one of the most common coding jobs.

The coding skills you need for this profession include proficiency in C++, Java, and many other common programming languages. Experts are self-motivated, independent workers with strong problem-solving skills. To become a web developer, you only need to have an associate degree or a bootcamp certificate. 

How to Get a Coding Job

You can land a coding job in various ways. Some students with a background in coding prefer honing their skills through bootcamps or coding courses, while beginner coders may pursue degree programs or self-studying options. Below we have detailed descriptions of how each learning route can help you secure a coding job. 

Coding Bootcamps 

Coding bootcamps are a great way to gain a solid understanding of common programming languages within a few weeks or months. These bootcamps offer immersive training programs to teach you tech skills. After attending a coding bootcamp, you will have the experience to apply for intermediate or entry-level coding jobs.

You can opt for online or in-person coding bootcamps. Some bootcamps will help you find job openings and create a persuasive resume. Aside from helping you search for a job, most bootcamps also offer financial aid options. The application process for coding bootcamps is generally easy and can be completed online. 

Coding Courses 

There are many stand-alone coding courses available online and in person, and you can complete them within a few days or weeks. These courses allow you to join the workforce much faster than a traditional university program would. However, online courses might not be enough experience to land you a job.

Some coding courses offer a career counselor to help with your job search. You can find coding courses for beginners and experienced coders. Some popular course providers include Udemy and Coursera. Although this level of education might not land you a senior position, it’s still a good step to take to become a coder. 

Degree Programs 

If you have enough time and money, a degree program is a good choice. You can pick between a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree. The annual salaries for professionals with a bachelor’s degree are generally higher than those with associate degrees.

The job training from degree programs will help you work in any industry you prefer, like healthcare, insurance, or tech. The application process for bachelor’s degrees is more difficult than associate degrees. However, many two-year and four-year institutes will offer resources and additional training to aid your job search. 

Self-Study 

Many successful database developers, app developers, software developers, and even medical coders choose to self-study. Through self-studying, you can find free tutorials and resources to learn common programming languages and other tech skills and tools. 

This will only help you secure entry-level coding jobs, but it’s an excellent choice for independent, self-motivated learners. You can find training programs for self-studying on sites like freeCodeCamp. It’s also a great idea to use books and YouTube tutorials for additional training. 

Are Coding Jobs Worth It?

Yes, coding jobs are worth it. Choosing a coding job means you can access many different positions and industries. There are thousands of job postings for in-demand coding careers from New York to California. No matter how you pursue your career in tech, you will find high salaries and job security for the rest of your life.