Computer Programmer job description.
A computer programmer writes, tests, and maintains code that implements the designs created by software developers and engineers. They translate technical specifications into working software, debug existing programs, and ensure code meets performance and quality standards across various platforms and languages.
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 Development Manager or IT Manager
A computer programmer writes, tests, and maintains code that implements the designs created by software developers and engineers. They translate technical specifications into working software, debug existing programs, and ensure code meets performance and quality standards across various platforms and languages.
- Write, test, and debug code based on technical specifications
- Translate software designs and requirements into functional programs
- Maintain and update existing codebases to fix bugs or 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 Development Manager or IT Manager
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 based on technical specifications
- Translate software designs and requirements into functional programs
- Maintain and update existing codebases to fix bugs or improve performance
- Collaborate with developers, analysts, and QA staff on project requirements
- Document code and maintain technical specifications
- Perform unit testing to verify code functionality
- Optimize programs for speed, efficiency, and scalability
- Stay current with programming languages and industry best practices
Required — and what would make a candidate excellent.
- Bachelor's degree in computer science or related field, or equivalent experience
- Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++)
- Understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software design principles
- Experience with version control systems such as Git
- Experience with agile development methodologies
- Familiarity with database systems and SQL
- Relevant programming or platform certifications
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 Development Manager or IT Manager) 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.
- How is a computer programmer different from a software developer?
- A programmer typically focuses on writing and implementing code from existing designs, while a software developer is often more involved in system design and architecture decisions.
- What programming languages are most commonly required?
- Requirements vary by employer, but Java, Python, C++, and JavaScript are among the most frequently requested languages in job postings.
Other documents in this neighbourhood.
Software Developer
A Software Developer designs, builds, and maintains software systems.
Software Engineer
A Software Engineer designs, builds, and maintains software systems.
IT Support Specialist
An IT Support Specialist provides first- and second-line technical support to employees, resolving hardware, software, and network issues.
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.