From Graphic Design to Videographer; this career family will allow you to utilise your creativity and technical skills.
With good attention to detail and a head for numbers you’ll be collecting, analysing, and presenting data to internal and external stakeholders on a range of subjects.
Digital communication involves the use of online tools like email, social media messaging and texting to reach other individuals or a specific audience in order to share a message.
Working in Technology Solutions gives you the opportunity to be involved in conceiving, designing, programming, and testing frameworks and applications used by businesses and end users at all levels.
IT operations is the overarching term for the processes and services administered by an organisation's information technology (IT) department IT operations are responsible for defining the way an organisation manages software and hardware.
Working in User Research & Relationships means you’ll focus on building, managing, and utilising relationships with people, clients, and users at all levels.
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Programmer
Programmer
A programmer, also known as a software developer or coder, is a professional who writes, designs, and develops computer programs or software applications. Programmers use programming languages and various tools to create software that performs specific tasks, solves problems, or provides functionality for computers, devices, and systems.
Key Responsibilities of a Programmer:
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Coding: Programmers write code using programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, JavaScript, Ruby, and many others. They create instructions that the computer can understand and execute.
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Software Development: Programmers design, develop, and test software applications, ranging from simple scripts and mobile apps to complex enterprise systems and software solutions.
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Problem Solving: Programmers analyse problems and develop algorithms to solve them. They break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps that the computer can follow.
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Debugging and Testing: Programmers identify and fix errors (bugs) in the code through testing and debugging processes. They ensure that the software functions correctly and efficiently.
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Algorithm Design: Programmers design and implement algorithms, which are step-by-step procedures or formulas for performing specific tasks or solving specific problems.
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Software Architecture: Programmers participate in the design and architecture of software systems, making decisions about how different components will interact and communicate.
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Version Control: Programmers use version control systems to manage code changes, collaborate with team members, and maintain a history of code revisions.
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Collaboration: Many software development projects involve teamwork. Programmers collaborate with other developers, designers, testers, and project managers to create and deliver software.
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Documentation: Programmers document their code, explaining its functionality, usage, and any important considerations for others who may work on or use the software in the future.
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Optimization: Programmers optimise code and algorithms for performance, ensuring that software runs efficiently and meets performance requirements.
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Security: Programmers incorporate security measures into software development to protect against vulnerabilities, data breaches, and unauthorised access.
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Continuous Learning: Programmers stay updated with the latest programming languages, frameworks, and technologies to ensure their skills remain current and relevant.
Programmers can specialise in different areas of software development, such as web development, mobile app development, game development, database programming, system programming, and more. They work in a variety of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, entertainment, and e-commerce.
Successful programmers possess strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, logical thinking, creativity, and the ability to learn and adapt to new technologies. They play a vital role in the creation of the software that powers modern technology and applications across various domains.
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If you're ready to start your journey there's some great options available to help you upskill
Whatever level you're starting from there are training options available to help start.
The North East offers some of the fastest-growing technology companies in the UK, providing more than 1,300 jobs for people in the region.
Pair up with an expert in the field and get a mentor to help you navigate the current climate.
Programmer FAQ's
Do I need a degree to become a Programmer?
No, you do not necessarily need a formal degree to become a Programmer. While a degree can provide a solid foundation and potentially enhance your career prospects, many successful programmers have entered the field through self-learning, coding bootcamps, online courses, and practical experience. The technology industry places a significant emphasis on skills, knowledge, and the ability to demonstrate your programming abilities.
Here are some considerations regarding education and qualifications for becoming a programmer:
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Self-Learning and Online Resources: Many programmers start by learning programming languages and concepts on their own through online tutorials, videos, coding platforms, and resources like websites and forums.
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Coding Bootcamps: Coding bootcamps are intensive, short-term training programs that focus on teaching programming skills in a hands-on and practical way. They are designed to quickly prepare you for entry-level programming roles.
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Online Courses and Certifications: There are numerous online platforms that offer programming courses and certifications in various languages and specialisations. These courses often allow you to learn at your own pace and build practical projects.
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Coding Communities and Forums: Engaging with coding communities and online forums can provide you with support, mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate on projects.
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Practical Experience: Building a portfolio of personal projects, contributing to open-source projects, or taking on freelance work can showcase your programming skills to potential employers.
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Internships and Entry-Level Positions: Some individuals start their programming careers through internships or entry-level positions that offer training and mentorship.
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Specialization: Depending on your interests, you can specialise in various programming areas, such as web development, mobile app development, data science, artificial intelligence, game development, and more.
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Networking and Meetups: Attending tech meetups, conferences, and networking events can help you connect with professionals in the field, learn about job opportunities, and stay updated with industry trends.
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Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, developing communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills is important for a successful programming career.
While a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field can provide you with a strong theoretical background and a well-rounded education, it is not the only path to becoming a programmer. Many employers value practical skills, real-world experience, and a strong portfolio of projects. As you build your skills and gain experience, you can demonstrate your abilities through coding challenges, projects, and technical interviews when applying for programming positions.
What is the average salary for a Programmer?
The average salary for a Programmer in the region can vary depending on factors such as experience, industry, company size, and the specific responsibilities of the role. It's important to note that salary ranges can change over time due to various factors, including economic conditions and demand for content design professionals in the region.
The average annual salary for a Programmer in the region last year was £47,500.
It's worth noting that some organisations may also offer additional benefits and incentives, such as bonuses, healthcare, retirement plans, flexible working arrangements, and professional development opportunities, which can impact the overall compensation package.
Keep in mind that salary information can change over time, and it's always a good idea to conduct thorough research specific to your location and circumstances to get the most accurate and current salary data.
What progression opportunities are available for a Programmer?
Progression opportunities for programmers are abundant and can lead to a variety of rewarding and specialised career paths within the technology industry. As you gain experience and expertise, you can explore different directions for career growth and advancement. Here are some common progression opportunities for programmers:
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Senior Programmer or Software Engineer: With experience, you can advance to senior-level roles, where you take on more complex and challenging projects, provide mentorship to junior programmers, and have a greater influence on technical decisions.
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Lead Programmer: Lead programmers are responsible for managing teams of programmers, coordinating projects, and ensuring that software development processes are efficient and effective.
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Architect or Software Architect: Software architects design the overall structure and high-level design of software systems. They make decisions about technology stacks, frameworks, and software patterns.
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Technical Lead: Technical leads provide technical direction to development teams, set coding standards, and guide the implementation of best practices.
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Specialization: Programmers can specialise in various areas, such as front-end development, back-end development, mobile app development, game development, data science, artificial intelligence, DevOps, security, and more.
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Full-Stack Developer: Full-stack developers are proficient in both front-end and back-end development, allowing them to work on all layers of a software application.
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Software Development Manager: As a manager, you oversee teams of programmers and software engineers, manage projects, and ensure that software development processes run smoothly.
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Product Manager: Transitioning to a product management role involves working closely with development teams to define product features, prioritise requirements, and ensure that software aligns with business goals.
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Software Consultant: Software consultants provide expert guidance to businesses on software development, architecture, and technology choices. They may work independently or as part of consulting firms.
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Entrepreneurship: Experienced programmers may start their own tech startups, creating innovative software solutions and products.
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Research and Development: In research roles, programmers work on cutting-edge technologies, explore new programming languages, and contribute to the development of new software tools.
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Technical Evangelist or Advocate: Technical evangelists promote and advocate for software products, technologies, or platforms by presenting at conferences, writing blog posts, and engaging with the developer community.
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Remote Work and Freelancing: Many programmers choose to work remotely or as freelancers, offering their expertise to clients and companies on a project basis.
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Academic and Teaching Roles: If you enjoy sharing your knowledge, you can become a coding instructor, lecturer, or write educational content about programming.
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Start Your Own Business: Some programmers venture into entrepreneurship by creating and launching their own software products, applications, or services.
The technology industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, offering a wide range of opportunities for programmers to shape their careers based on their interests, skills, and goals. Continuous learning, staying updated with emerging technologies, and honing your programming skills will contribute to your success and advancement in the field.
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