Skills it runs on
The capabilities O*NET rates most important for this occupation — the human ground the work is built on.
See all skills →Computer Programmers
Occupation · SOC 15-1251.00
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.
Also called: Analyst Programmer · Computer Programmer · Programmer · Programmer Analyst · Application Programmer Analyst · Computer Programmer Analyst · Internet Programmer · Java Developer · Web Applications Programmer · Web Programmer · .NET Programmer · Application Programmer
Job family: Computer and Mathematical Occupations
Take this to your AI
A source-stamped Markdown brief of this occupation — paste it into an agent, or fetch
/roles/role-15-1251-00/context.md directly.
AI work map
A fast read on where AI already shows up in this occupation, where it stays a copilot, where humans remain in the loop, and what the labor market is doing. Built from observed Claude.ai conversations mapped to O*NET tasks and from published research — measures of usage and exposure, not advice or predictions that the job is going away.
Market signal
Independent published positions, read together — not a forecast.
- Declining employment outlook (-6.0% by 2034)
- 5,500 openings/yr
- High AI exposure
- Median pay $98,670/yr
97th-percentile task overlap — yet about 5,500 openings a year (-6% projected, BLS) . What exposure means →
AI & job outlook
What today's research says about this occupation's exposure to AI, how AI is actually being used in it, and where employment is headed. These are positions within published studies — measures of exposure and usage, not predictions that this job will disappear.
Exposure to current AI
Each study uses its own scale, so the raw scores are not comparable across rows — the percentile (this job's rank among all U.S. occupations with data) is the comparable figure, and sizes the bars.
| Measure | Rank vs all occupations | Percentile | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLM task exposure, γ (OpenAI / Eloundou) High | 95th | 1.0 | |
| AI assistant applicability (Microsoft) High | 90th | 0.3 |
OpenAI's exposure study scores tasks three ways: with a language model alone (α 0.9), with simple added tooling (β 0.9), and including AI-powered software (γ 1.0). Higher means more of the job's tasks could be done at least twice as fast — not that they will be automated away.
How AI is actually used in this job
Among measured AI assistant conversations mapped to this occupation (Anthropic Economic Index, 2026-01-15), these task types came up most. These are shares of observed AI conversations — not shares of the job, of worker time, or of what could be automated.
| Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced. | 245.5% | |
| 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. | 239.8% | |
| Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic. | 219.0% | |
| Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs. | 17.0% | |
| Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program. | 16.7% | |
| Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language. | 5.9% |
Job outlook
Independent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projection for 2024–2034 — a labor-market forecast, not an AI-impact forecast.
| Outlook | Declining · -6.0% by 2034 |
| Projected annual openings | 5,500 |
| Employment 2024 → 2034 | 121,200 → 113,900 |
“Annual openings” counts new jobs plus replacements for workers who leave the occupation, so it can be large even when growth is modest.
Tasks
All 17 tasks O*NET lists for this occupation, ordered by importance. Each links to its own page with AI-exposure and observed-use detail.
- Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic. Core · importance 4.4
- Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced. Core · importance 4.4
- Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements. Core · importance 4.4
- 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. Core · importance 4.2
- Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes. Core · importance 4.0
- Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct. Core · importance 4.0
- Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language. Core · importance 3.6
- Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program. Core · importance 3.6
- Train subordinates in programming and program coding. Supplemental · importance 3.5
- Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs. Core · importance 3.5
- Perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer. Core · importance 3.3
- Write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users. Core · importance 3.3
- Investigate whether networks, workstations, the central processing unit of the system, or peripheral equipment are responding to a program's instructions. Core · importance 3.3
- Develop Web sites. Supplemental · importance 3.2
- Assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel. Core · importance 3.2
- Train users on the use and function of computer programs. Supplemental · importance 3.0
- Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods. Supplemental · importance 2.8
Work activities
- Test software performance.
- Resolve computer software problems.
- Document design or development procedures.
- Modify software programs to improve performance.
- Write computer programming code.
- Collaborate with others to resolve information technology issues.
- Prepare instruction manuals.
- Test computer system operations to ensure proper functioning.
- Develop diagrams or flow charts of system operation.
- Develop models of information or communications systems.
- Assign duties or work schedules to employees.
- Supervise information technology personnel.
- Manage information technology projects or system activities.
- Coordinate project activities with other personnel or departments.
- Train others in computer interface or software use.
- Develop computer or online applications.
- Design websites or web applications.
- Teach others to use computer equipment or hardware.
Knowledge, skills & abilities
O*NET importance rating, from 1 (not important) to 5 (extremely important).
Knowledge
| Computers and Electronics | 4.9 | |
| Mathematics | 3.5 | |
| Engineering and Technology | 3.5 | |
| English Language | 3.4 | |
| Customer and Personal Service | 3.3 | |
| Administration and Management | 3.3 |
Transferable skills
| Programming | 4.8 | |
| Complex Problem Solving | 3.8 | |
| Quality Control Analysis | 3.5 | |
| Systems Analysis | 3.4 | |
| Judgment and Decision Making | 3.3 | |
| Social Perceptiveness | 3.1 | |
| Operations Analysis | 3.1 | |
| Systems Evaluation | 3.1 | |
| Time Management | 3.1 | |
| Coordination | 3.0 |
Abilities
| Written Comprehension | 4.0 | |
| Oral Comprehension | 3.9 | |
| Near Vision | 3.9 | |
| Problem Sensitivity | 3.8 | |
| Deductive Reasoning | 3.8 | |
| Inductive Reasoning | 3.8 | |
| Information Ordering | 3.8 | |
| Oral Expression | 3.5 | |
| Written Expression | 3.3 | |
| Speech Recognition | 3.3 | |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 3.1 | |
| Number Facility | 3.1 | |
| Selective Attention | 3.1 | |
| Speech Clarity | 3.1 | |
| Fluency of Ideas | 3.0 | |
| Originality | 3.0 |
Essential skills
| Active Listening | 3.8 | |
| Critical Thinking | 3.8 | |
| Reading Comprehension | 3.4 | |
| Writing | 3.3 | |
| Speaking | 3.1 | |
| Mathematics | 3.1 | |
| Active Learning | 3.1 | |
| Monitoring | 3.0 |
Skills in demand
Skills employers ask for in job postings for this occupation (Lightcast), with whether each is a common or specialized skill.
Showing the top 40 of 113.
Tools & technology
Showing the top 40 of 293.
Work context
How characteristic each condition is of the job, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale (higher = more present in day-to-day work). Each condition links to how it varies across all occupations.
How to get in
- Job zone
- Zone 4 — Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Typical entry-level education
- Bachelor's degree · BLS, the typical path — not a requirement
- Related experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Preparation level
- SVP (7.0 to < 8.0) — total schooling plus on-the-job experience.
What to study: Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services , Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services , Engineering/Engineering-Related Technologies/Technicians , Health Professions and Related Programs , Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies . Fields of study crosswalked to this occupation (NCES CIP–SOC), not a requirement.
Education of current workers
Share of people in this occupation at each level of education.
| Bachelor's Degree | 88.0% | |
| Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) | 9.0% | |
| Some College Courses | 2.5% | |
| Master's Degree | 0.5% |
Interests & work styles
The interests and personal qualities O*NET associates with people who do this work.
Interest areas
| Information Technology | 6.9 | |
| Mathematics/Statistics | 4.2 | |
| Engineering | 2.6 | |
| Office Work | 2.2 | |
| Management/Administration | 2.0 | |
| Accounting | 1.9 |
Career interests (Holland / RIASEC)
| Conventional | 5.9 | |
| Investigative | 5.1 | |
| Realistic | 3.4 | |
| Artistic | 2.5 | |
| Enterprising | 2.1 | |
| Social | 2.0 |
Work styles
| Attention to Detail | 3.0 | |
| Dependability | 3.0 | |
| Intellectual Curiosity | 2.2 | |
| Innovation | 1.9 |
Wages & employment
U.S. · annual wages (BLS OEWS)
| 10th percentile | $52,190 |
| 25th percentile | $71,860 |
| Median (50th) | $98,670 |
| 75th percentile | $128,960 |
| 90th percentile | $162,090 |
| People employed | 109,870 |
Industries that employ this occupation
Where these workers are employed, by number of jobs (national, BLS OEWS). Pay shown is the occupation's national median, not industry-specific.
| Industry | Workers | National median pay |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services · Sector | 49,490 | $98,640 |
| Information · Sector | 10,150 | $104,750 |
| Educational Services · Sector | 9,300 | $87,360 |
| Manufacturing · Sector | 8,230 | $96,610 |
| Finance and Insurance · Sector | 6,450 | $106,970 |
| Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services · Sector | 4,030 | $99,590 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises · Sector | 3,850 | $106,470 |
| Wholesale Trade · Sector | 3,280 | $83,380 |
| Temporary Help Services · National industry | 1,930 | $130,750 |
| Engineering Services · National industry | 1,910 | $93,960 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance · Sector | 1,720 | $101,140 |
| Construction · Sector | 1,350 | $81,010 |
Where this work is most concentrated
Industries where this occupation is far more common than in the economy as a whole. The location quotient is how many times more concentrated it is here (a value of 5 means five times its economy-wide share).
| Industry | Concentration | Workers |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services · Sector | 6.45× | 49,490 |
| Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities · National industry | 5.31× | 230 |
| Information · Sector | 4.9× | 10,150 |
| Engineering Services · National industry | 2.32× | 1,910 |
| Direct Health and Medical Insurance Carriers · National industry | 2.19× | 700 |
| Fossil Fuel Electric Power Generation · National industry | 2.17× | 110 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises · Sector | 1.92× | 3,850 |
| Machine Shops · National industry | 1.62× | 300 |
Related occupations
Part of the Digital Technology career cluster.
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Side-by-side comparisons place two occupations’ pay, preparation, skills, and AI exposure on the same page — same data, same scale, no forecast.
What you can do with this
Options the data surfaces for Computer Programmers — not advice or a forecast. Each is a real cross-link you can follow into the evidence.
Skills that travel
Capabilities this work builds that are used across many other occupations.
Adjacent roles
Occupations O*NET rates as related — the nearby moves on the map.
Paths in
How people typically prepare for this work.
- Bachelor's degree · typical entry level
- Job zone 4 — Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed · preparation tier
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services · field of study
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services · field of study
Zoom out
See where this work sits in the bigger picture.
Write a report on thisheadline · factoids · citation
Computer Programmers show 97th-percentile AI task overlap — and about 5,500 annual U.S. openings
- Computer Programmers rank in the 97th percentile (High band) for AI task overlap across U.S. occupations — a measure of how much of the work today's AI can attempt, not how much is automated.Eloundou et al. (GPTs are GPTs) + Felten AIOE
- The occupation is projected to see about 5,500 U.S. job openings per year (2024–34), counting growth and replacement — a labor-demand projection made independently of AI.BLS Employment Projections 2024–34
- BLS projects employment to be declining (-6%) from 2024 to 2034.BLS Employment Projections 2024–34
- Median annual pay is $98,670, across about 109,870 U.S. workers.BLS OEWS (May 2024)
Copy the whole kit
Computer Programmers show 97th-percentile AI task overlap — and about 5,500 annual U.S. openings • Computer Programmers rank in the 97th percentile (High band) for AI task overlap across U.S. occupations — a measure of how much of the work today's AI can attempt, not how much is automated. (Eloundou et al. (GPTs are GPTs) + Felten AIOE) • The occupation is projected to see about 5,500 U.S. job openings per year (2024–34), counting growth and replacement — a labor-demand projection made independently of AI. (BLS Employment Projections 2024–34) • BLS projects employment to be declining (-6%) from 2024 to 2034. (BLS Employment Projections 2024–34) • Median annual pay is $98,670, across about 109,870 U.S. workers. (BLS OEWS (May 2024)) Source: Singulariki — "Computer Programmers". https://singulariki.com/roles/role-15-1251-00 Note: AI task overlap measures what today's AI can attempt, not automation, job loss, or a forecast.
AssetsShare imageMethodology & sourcesPress & newsroomThe newsroom
Every line is built only from figures this page already shows and cites. AI task overlap means what today's AI can attempt — not automation, job loss, or a forecast.
Sources for this page
Every figure above traces to a named public dataset and the exact release below — not hand-written opinion. See the full methodology for what each measure does and does not mean.
- O*NET 30.3 U.S. Department of Labor / National Center for O*NET Development
- BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Anthropic Economic Index v4 (2026-01-15) + v2 (2025-03-27) Anthropic
- Microsoft “Working with AI” working-with-ai Microsoft Research
- “GPTs are GPTs” (Eloundou et al.) arXiv 2303.10130 OpenAI / academic
Data compiled June 2, 2026. Figures are estimates, not advice.
Cite this page
Plain
Singulariki. "Computer Programmers." Singulariki: a source-backed encyclopedia of work. Built from O*NET 30.3; BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024; BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034; Anthropic Economic Index v4 (2026-01-15) + v2 (2025-03-27); Microsoft “Working with AI” working-with-ai; “GPTs are GPTs” (Eloundou et al.) arXiv 2303.10130. Accessed June 7, 2026. https://singulariki.com/roles/role-15-1251-00
APA
Singulariki. (2026). Computer Programmers. Singulariki: a source-backed encyclopedia of work. Retrieved June 7, 2026, from https://singulariki.com/roles/role-15-1251-00
BibTeX
@misc{singulariki-role-15-1251-00,
title = {Computer Programmers},
author = {{Singulariki}},
year = {2026},
note = {O*NET 30.3; BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024; BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034; Anthropic Economic Index v4 (2026-01-15) + v2 (2025-03-27); Microsoft “Working with AI” working-with-ai; “GPTs are GPTs” (Eloundou et al.) arXiv 2303.10130. Accessed June 7, 2026},
url = {https://singulariki.com/roles/role-15-1251-00}
} Citations name the underlying public dataset releases — they reflect what this page is built from, not just the URL.