Computer programmers and interactive media developers (NOC 2174)

Computer programmers and interactive media developers write, modify, integrate and test computer code (the detailed and logical instructions that computers follow in order to function).

Computer programmers:

• write, modify, integrate and test software code
• maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required
• identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions
• prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software
• help collect and document user requirements
• help develop logical and physical specifications
• may lead and coordinate teams of computer programmers
• may research and evaluate a variety of software products 

Interactive media developers:

• program animation software to predefined specifications for interactive CDs, DVDs, video game cartridges and internet-based applications
• program special effects software for film and video applications
• write, modify, integrate and test software code for e-commerce and other internet applications
• help collect and document user requirements
• help develop logical and physical specifications
• may lead and coordinate teams of interactive media developers
• may research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products

These workers are often required to work long hours to meet deadlines or resolve problems. Updating or debugging code can be a long process requiring great attention to detail, although this has become less of an issue as many employers have moved to automated debugging. The demands of debugging may sometimes lead to burn-out amongst these workers.

Workers spend long hours at computer workstations. They must be careful to use safe work practices to avoid eye strain as well as stress on back, neck and shoulders, and joint stress from keyboarding and mouse work.

These professionals must have good communication skills to work with customers as well as with their own teams.

Education, training & qualifications

Completion of a diploma or bachelor's degree in computer science or in another area with a significant programming component is generally required. Other requirements may include:

• specific post-secondary study or experience for specialization in programming for engineering and scientific applications
• language-specific certification for computer programmers with specialized knowledge of a particular programming languages
• continual upgrading of technical skills, which may be paid for by employers

Experienced computer programmers and interactive media developers can apply for the Information Systems Professional (ISP) designation through the Canadian Information Processing Society.

Skills

• Spatial Perception
• Innovative
• Numerical Ability
• Detail-Oriented
• Finger Dexterity

View skills definitions

Education programs in B.C.

The following program areas are related to this occupation:

For more information about programs offered specifically for this career, visit EducationPlannerBC.

Growing use of information technologies will drive the need for more workers in this group. For example, the health care and justice systems are increasingly hiring these workers as they move to automation. The telecommunication industry is also becoming a major employer of computer programmers and interactive media developers in the province. The increased use of mobile devices in particular is expected to contribute to demand for programmers.

Recent developments have led to software that can write basic code, thereby eliminating the need for computer programmers to perform routine and repetitive work. This has resulted in the need for programmers with a broader skill set. New graduates with knowledge of more sophisticated computer programming languages and experience working with a variety of different programming languages will have an advantage.

Programmers can expect their jobs to change, depending on which computer languages they are using and what is happening in their employer's industry. Knowledge of systems used in the specific industry employing these workers will be a plus. In addition, programmers will need to continually upgrade their skills to remain competitive.

Interactive media is becoming very popular. It covers a wide range of products, from customizable multimedia for training or presentations to web-accessible databases. Those IT professionals who specialize in this area and possess information design skills will be in high demand.