What are the types of jobs in computer programming and software?

Question

What are the names of the basic jobs and categories, and what does each one do? REMEMBER, in software programming!

Answer 1

There are many terms that essentially describe the same position. Software engineer, programmer, developer are all pretty much the same thing. Certain industries may favor one or another but in the end, it's just writing code. These usually come in levels of junior or entry level; mid-level; or senior.

There's also software architect. This is generally a much higher position than engineer/programmer/developer, as architects must have a comprehensive understanding of development concepts; a high-level view of complex software; and often some elements of project management skills.

Depending on the organization, sometimes the senior developers are also the architects.

Then in the support side of things, there is QA testing, which can pretty much be anyone who is moderately competent using a computer and received a certificate from some course in software testing. QA engineers are more technical people who bridge the gap between testers and the developers who write the software; QA engineers often assist in analyzing test cases and debugging.

And of course, with all the positions above, there is an equivalent position for web-specific applications, simply put "web" in front of the title.

Venturing somewhat outside of programming, but still related, is database engineers/developers, and DBA (database administrators). In larger and more regimented companies, the role of working with the database directly is placed directly on database-specific individuals, and the software and database groups must communicate project requirements and technical specifications.

Answer 2

it really depends on if you're passionate about it. If you don't like writing computer software, you won't succeed. If you really just want to make software, find a university that specifically offers software engineering as a degree. Website development is a very competitive field but if you can be innovative and know how to program correctly, you will be in demand even with all the crappy template sites out. Template sites provide no personality and no customization, something a lot of businesses do not want.