Table of Contents

Job Name

IT Programmer

Brief description

"A programmer or software developer is someone who programs computers, that is, one who writes computer software. The term computer programmer can refer to a specialist in one area of computer programming or to a generalist who writes code for many kinds of software." (Wikipedia, 7 August, 2007)

A programmer is a person that writes creative computer tools for artist, businessmen and as well for people with disabilities which in some way makes life easier and less stressful.

Programmers also write computer software to make using the computer a lot easier. 

IT Programmers are people that have also created a second world "THE VIRTUAL COMPUTER WORLD" for people with disability to experience life to the fullest,independent-living and make social contact with the rest of the world.

IT Programmers translate specifications for new or modified computer systems, applications or networks, into specified units or program specifications. (http://jobsearch.gov.au/joboutlook/default.aspx?PageId=AscoDesc&ASCOCode=2235, 13th August)

Computer programmers write, test, and maintain the detailed instructions, called programs, that computers must follow to perform their functions. Programmers also conceive, design, and test logical structures for solving problems by computer. Many technical innovations in programming have redefined the role of a programmer and elevated much of the programming work done today. Job titles and descriptions may vary, depending on the organization. In this occupational statement, computer programmers are individuals whose main job function is programming; this group has a wide range of responsibilities and educational backgrounds.

Computer programs tell the computer what to do, which information to identify and access, how to process it, and what equipment to use. Programs vary widely depending on the type of information to be accessed or generated. For example, the instructions involved in updating financial records are very different from those required to duplicate conditions on an aircraft for pilots training in a flight simulator. Although simple programs can be written in a few hours, programs that use complex mathematical formulas whose solutions can only be approximated or that draw data from many existing systems may require more than a year of work. In most cases, several programmers work together as a team under a senior programmer's supervision.

Programmers write programs according to the specifications determined primarily by computer software engineers and systems analysts. After the design process is complete, it is the job of the programmer to convert that design into a logical series of instructions that the computer can follow. The programmer codes these instructions in a conventional programming language such as COBOL; an artificial intelligence language such as Prolog; or one of the most advanced object-oriented languages, such as Java, C+, or ACTOR. Different programming languages are used depending on the purpose of the program. COBOL, for example, is commonly used for business applications, whereas Fortran (short for "formula translation") is used in science and engineering. C+ is widely used for both scientific and business applications. Extensible Markup Language (XML) has become a popular programming tool for Web programmers, along with J2EE (Java 2 Platform). Programmers generally know more than one programming language and, because many languages are similar, they often can learn new languages relatively easily. In practice, programmers often are referred to by the language they know, such as Java programmers, or by the type of function they perform or environment in which they work---for example, database programmers, mainframe programmers, or Web programmers.

Many programmers update, repair, modify, and expand existing programs. When making changes to a section of code, called a routine, programmers need to make other users aware of the task that the routine is to perform. They do this by inserting comments in the coded instructions so that others can understand the program. Many programmers use computer-assisted software engineering (CASE) tools to automate much of the coding process. These tools enable a programmer to concentrate on writing the unique parts of the program, because the tools automate various pieces of the program being built. CASE tools generate whole sections of code automatically, rather than line by line. Programmers also use libraries of basic code that can be modified or customized for a specific application. This approach yields more reliable and consistent programs and increases programmers' productivity by eliminating some routine steps.

Programmers test a program by running it to ensure that the instructions are correct and that the program produces the desired outcome. If errors do occur, the programmer must make the appropriate change and recheck the program until it produces the correct results. This process is called testing and debugging. Programmers may continue to fix these problems throughout the life of a program. Programmers working in a mainframe environment, which involves a large centralized computer, may prepare instructions for a computer operator who will run the program. Programmers also may contribute to a manual for persons who will be using the program.

Computer programmers often are grouped into two broad types---applications programmers and systems programmers. Applications programmers write programs to handle a specific job, such as a program to track inventory within an organization. They also may revise existing packaged software or customize generic applications which are frequently purchased from vendors. Systems programmers, in contrast, write programs to maintain and control computer systems software, such as operating systems, networked systems, and database systems. These workers make changes in the instructions that determine how the network, workstations, and central processing unit of the system handle the various jobs they have been given and how they communicate with peripheral equipment such as terminals, printers, and disk drives. Because of their knowledge of the entire computer system, systems programmers often help applications programmers determine the source of problems that may occur with their programs.

Programmers in software development companies may work directly with experts from various fields to create software ranging from games and educational software to programs for desktop publishing and financial planning. Programming of packaged software constitutes one of the most rapidly growing segments of the computer services industry.(http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos110.htm)

Duties & responsibilities of this role

• Manage subordinate staff which includes management of staff performance reviews; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Schedule tasks to meet work milestone requirements; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Prioritize, manage and allocate tasks to available staff; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Report on status of work progress and participate in future direction of projects; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• liaise with other team leaders to allocate programming resources; and (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Identify requirements for new resources and recruit/interview to fill these requirements. (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Maintain existing programs; analyse, review and rewrite programs to increase operating efficiency or to adapt new   requirements. (hr.duke.edu, 8th August)
• Developing software systems based on user requirements/specifications (www.seek.com.au, viewed 13^th August 2007)
• Recommending to department manager proposed new technology or improvement processes and their application. (www.seek.com.au, viewed 13th August 2007)
• Must have a strong knowledge of some main programming tool.
• To develop programs and softwares for different client.
• Working conditions are very relaxing, can come late but have to complete the given task on time.
• Working in groups is very common in IT industries.
• A group leader must ensure that the given task is completed on time.
• The quality of the work is to be examined regularly.
• The software tools used must be advance and upto date.
• Analyses and designs, using common software development processes, computing applications addressing business requirements. 
• Develops modules, maintains, and integrates computing applications. 
• Interfaces with application users, and other programmers and analysts, systems analysts, subject matter experts (SME's), and other technical and support personnel in functional areas.
• Work in a team. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)
• Participates in peer-group reviews of designs and creates and maintains documentation.
• Provide technical leadership, advice and assistance to other developers. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)
• Liaise with stakeholder groups with respect to client requirements. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)
• Develop, install and maintain web applications, including web services. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)

Job Requirements

Essential

• Solid knowledge of and deep experience in a wide range of technical game development areas; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Good communication and leadership skills; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Initiate and be responsible for seeking improvement; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Develop strategies to achieve departmental and company goals; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Energetic and enthusiastic person; and (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Passionate about the future of video games. (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• IT experience and knowledge of a selection of C/C++, sql, Access, Xbase, Visual Basic, XML/XSL, Java, Intranet development, .NET, Shell scripts within a Unix environment, and Unix tools / utilities (AWK & Perl). Java and XML are advantageous.
• Good problem solving / advertising skills. (www.seek.com.au, viewed 13th August 2007)
• Knowledge of IT development procedures and tools. (www.seek.com.au, vieded 13th August 2007)
• Understanding of IT infrastructure Library concepts. (www.seek.com.au, viewed 13th August 2007)         
• Alternative qualifications and experience will be considered. (www.seek.com.au, viewed 13th August 2007)
• Strong background / interest in mathematics as it applies to financial markets. (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=50&PageNumber=1&JobID=10248051, 20th August)
• Develop new and maintain existing software systems
• Proactive and continuous improvement of internal systems (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=90&PageNumber=1&JobID=10256203, 20th August)
• Fault management for existing systems
• Produce detailed documentation during each phase of the software development life cycle.
• Ensure data integrity and information security in software systems
• Development and performance of thorough test procedures (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=90&PageNumber=1&JobID=10256203, 20th August)
• Ability to work effectively in a team. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)
• experience in project management. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)

Required Qualifications:

• At least 5 years experience in software engineering with at least 2 years in management; (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Experience in a senior role and number of shipped products on various platforms; and (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Recognised Bachelor or higher degree in computer related subjects. (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• C and Java programming experience in an Intel environment. (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=14&PageNumber=1&JobID=10136635&, viewed 15th of August 2007)
• ability to follow and contribute to corporate guidelines and processes relating to information management and application development. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)

Skill Level 

• Entry to this occupation is generally through a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is also required. (http://jobsearch.gov.au/joboutlook/default.aspx?PageId=AscoDesc&ASCOCode=2235, 13th August) 
• Exposure in using associated programming utilities eg: GDB, make, valgrind etc.
• (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=45&PageNumber=1&JobID=10248942, 20th August)
• Have commercial experience with Linux. (  http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=45&PageNumber=1&JobID=10248942, 20th August)
• Knowledge of Oracle is desirable. ( http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=54&PageNumber=1&JobID=10243400, 20th August)

Qualification

• A degree in Computer Science, IT, Software Engineering, Systems Engineering.
• Strong knowledge of some programming tools like C++, Java etc.
• Two years of experience in an IT firm.
• Strong leadership quality.
• Strong communication skills.
• Strong architecture, documentation and design skills (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=96&PageNumber=1&JobID=10256078, 20th August)
• Tertiary qualifications in information technology (or equivalent experience) will be an advantage. (www.jobsearch.gov.au, 6 August 2007)

Salary

$80,000 - $120,000 = depending on the level of experience (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)

$50,000 - $80,000 (http://mycareer.com.au/jobs)

Weekly Earnings: $973.5 (http://jobsearch.gov.au/joboutlok) 

Median annual earnings of computer programmers were $62,890 in May 2004.

middle 50 percent earned between $47,580 and $81,280 a year.

The lowest 10 percent earned less than $36,470.

the highest 10 percent earned more than $99,610.

many programmers work on a contract earning a higher hourly wage from $30.00 to $80.00 per hour 

Industry/Organisation

Public:

• ComSuper       

Private:

• Aristotle Corporation (Seek.com.au, 5 August, 2007)
• Human Solutions Group  
• Intel
• Microsoft
• Suns systems
• SAP
• Geoscience  Australia (6 August 2007)

Job Listings

1. Seek.com.au. (5 August 2007). IT Programmer. Retrieved 7 August, 2007 from http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=93&PageNumber=1&JobID=9545233&

2. http://jobs.careerone.com.au/texis/jobsearch/details.html?id=4698cb948d1310&q=programmer&qField=All&qCountry=Australia@&qInd=careeroncecategorygovernment-&qSort=smart&Match=all&pp=20&view=1&page=1\\
mycareer.com.au(14 August 2007) IT Programmer

3. http://mycareer.com.au/jobs/canberra-act/it-telecommunications/web-evelopment/5157725+gui+c+software+engineer+x+canberra+act.aspx\\

4. IT Programmer. (http://jobsearch.gov.au/joboutlook/default.aspx?PageId=AscoDesc&ASCOCode=2235, viewed 13th August 2007)

5. Java analyst programmer. (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=90&PageNumber=1&JobID=10256203, 20th August 2007)

6. Tools Programmer. (http://it.seek.com.au/users/apply/index.ascx?Sequence=96&PageNumber=1&JobID=10256078, 20th August 2007)

7. Geoscience Australia , Application Developer. (^{http://jobsearch.gov.au/SearchResults/Job.aspx?st=1&WHCode=0&postcode=&rgn=%25&Occ=2235&Keywords=&NewJobs=0&FPTCode=0&JobCard=0&NewApp=0&Indig=0&BroadLoc=0&print=0&NumMJL=0&CommJobs=0&CurPage=1&TotalRec=12&JobPos=3&JobID=157976741&SortDir=0&SortField=0&}) , 6 August 2007

8. Junior Java Programmer, Macro Recruitment http://mycareer.com.au/jobs/melbourne/it-telecommunications/analyst-programmer/5340927+junior+java+programmer.aspx?style=enhanced, viewed 23 August 2007 

Differences observed

although there are some differences observed in the programming environment. for example in intel they require people from a strong systems engineering background where as in Microsoft the company strongly focusses on the computer science background. in systems engineering it mainly focusses on the hardware as well as software but in the computer science its major focus is on the software engineering. these i.e. Microsoft and Intel are two major Giants in the field of computers. both have a collabrative and joint venture in designing and developing the systems used in all walks of life. intels main focus is the hardware and designs the hardwares and the microsoft designs its softwares to run that perticular hardware.  

In a programming environment related to finance/accounting, employers require a strong back ground in finance/accounting and prefer experience in financial markets. (Expertise in SAP Finance and HR/Payroll &- Experience in ABAP Programming)

Eventough all employers expect experience in fields such as c/c++, squl, acess, java, .net, unix tools etc the level of experience differs according to the field and position of the employment.

As the type of systems used in industries and departments vary so does the required knowledge of different programming languages for different jobs. For instance a games programmer would need a different range of programming skills and knowledge to a systems programmer. The different languages the programmer knows would be the main factor in deciding which type of industry/department he would be working for.

Other References used

1. (http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos110.htm).

2. Wikipedia. (7 August 2007). Programmer, Retrieved 7 August, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Programmer

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