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Computer Programmer Jobs: What Employers Look For

When looking for computer programmer jobs, it helps to know exactly what employers are looking for and how to best show off your skills and abilities. Here are some of the top things employers like to see when hiring computer programmers.

Education

Most employers like to hire programmers with at least a bachelor’s degree. Some employers will accept an associate’s degree, but a bachelor’s degree is preferred. The most relevant degrees to help get you hired include a degree in computer science, information science, engineering, or mathematics. College courses in business can also help.

Use your education to your advantage. If your degree is in any of these fields, make sure to highlight this on your resume. If you don’t have a degree in computer science or a related field, highlight any relevant courses you have taken.

Certification

Employers also like to hire computer programmers with certification and other qualifications. Some software firms offer certification, and you can also receive certification in language-based programs. Certification is not necessary for finding a job, but employers definitely look favorably on this type of certification.

If you are interested in certification, find out which type of certification is best for the area of computer programming you are in. If you have already received certification, list it on your resume.

Experience

Experience is highly valued in the computer programming field. Employers like to see that you are competent in several programming tools like Java, as well as traditional computer languages. List on your resume any programming tools you are skilled in or have experience with. The more tools and languages you are proficient in, the better. If you are lacking in a certain area, you can always take a refresher course in order to boost your resume.

If you are coming into the job market at an entry level, it may be more difficult to find a programming job, but you still have a good chance. If this is the case for you, try to include any relevant experience you have on your resume. Even if your experience is in the classroom rather than on the job, showcase any experience you may have.

Computer programmer jobs are expected to decline slightly in the next several years, but that doesn’t mean that job prospects don’t look good for you. If you concentrate on the areas that potential employers are looking for, you can boost your chances of landing a great job.