Computer Programmer job description.
A Computer Programmer writes, tests, and maintains code that powers software applications and systems. Working from specifications provided by developers or engineers, they translate designs into functioning programs, debug issues, and update existing codebases to improve performance and reliability.
The Computer Programmer job description · $29
The full editable .docx — role summary, 8 worked responsibilities, qualifications, and skills, formatted for your letterhead. Delivered to your inbox within 24 hours — usually instantly.
Role: Computer Programmer Reports to: Software Engineering Manager or Development Lead
A Computer Programmer writes, tests, and maintains code that powers software applications and systems. Working from specifications provided by developers or engineers, they translate designs into functioning programs, debug issues, and update existing codebases to improve performance and reliability.
- Write, test, and debug code in one or more programming languages
- Translate software specifications and designs into functional code
- Update and maintain existing programs to fix bugs and improve performance
What's inside the document.
One-paragraph plain-English explanation of the role's outcome and scope.
8 responsibilities phrased the way the work is actually done.
4 qualifications a candidate must have to perform on day 30.
3 qualifications that would make a candidate excellent in year two.
6 skill chips you can copy directly into your ATS.
Software Engineering Manager or Development Lead
A complete document set.
- Word document (.docx) — fully editable
- PDF — signature-ready
- Google Docs — one-click copy to your Drive
- 12 months of updates to this document
- Commercial-use licence for internal and client work
The work, not the title.
- Write, test, and debug code in one or more programming languages
- Translate software specifications and designs into functional code
- Update and maintain existing programs to fix bugs and improve performance
- Collaborate with developers, QA, and product teams on requirements
- Document code and maintain version control using tools like Git
- Conduct code reviews and incorporate feedback
- Troubleshoot production issues and implement fixes
- Stay current with programming languages, tools, and best practices
Required — and what would make a candidate excellent.
- Associate or bachelor's degree in computer science or related field
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, Java, C#)
- Understanding of software development lifecycle and version control
- Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
- Experience with multiple programming languages and frameworks
- Relevant certifications or coding bootcamp completion
- Familiarity with agile development practices
Eight steps from download to publish.
- 01Open the Computer Programmer job description in Word or your one-click Google Docs copy.
- 02Replace placeholders for company name, reporting line, and location with your specifics.
- 03Tighten the summary to one paragraph that names the team's outcome, not just the role.
- 04Edit the responsibilities to match the actual scope of the seat — aim for 6 to 8 items, not 12.
- 05Separate required qualifications from preferred. Required is what a candidate must have to do the work on day 30; preferred is what would make them excellent in year two.
- 06Add salary range guidance using BLS, Payscale, or your own band data — do not copy generic figures.
- 07Have the hiring manager and one peer read it. Cut anything that wouldn't survive a candidate question.
- 08Publish to your ATS, intranet, and external careers page.
The right document at the right moment.
Use this Computer Programmer job description any time you are opening or reopening a seat at this level. The mid band sets the calibration — copy the document, tighten it to your specific scope, and circulate to the hiring panel before the first interview.
The reporting line (Software Engineering Manager or Development Lead) and skills list are starting points. Override either if your org structure or stack differs from the norm — the template is a draft, not a contract.
Honest answers before you download.
- What's the difference between a Computer Programmer and a Software Developer?
- Programmers typically focus on writing and implementing code from existing specifications, while developers often handle broader design, architecture, and end-to-end application ownership.
- Is a four-year degree required?
- Not always. Many employers accept an associate degree, coding bootcamp certificate, or demonstrated coding skills in place of a bachelor's degree.
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This Computer Programmer job description is a professionally drafted starting point for your hiring process and is not legal advice. Hiring practice varies by jurisdiction (e.g. pay-transparency laws differ across US states and AU jurisdictions). Adapt this document for your specific location and have employment counsel review any clauses you add before publishing. Salary varies by region, employer type, and experience. Reference BLS or current industry surveys for ranges. Full disclaimer.