Computer Programmers
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
BLS SOC 15-1251 · O*NET-SOC 15-1251.00 · BLS 2025–2035 · O*NET 31.0
Median annual wage, 2025
$100,390
Projected change, 2025–2035
-7.3%
2025–2035 annual average openings
4,400
AI exposure
Very high
Editorial analysis
Typing code is becoming a smaller part of programming
Computer programming is one of the clearest examples of generative AI directly entering a skilled workflow. Coding assistants can complete functions, translate between languages, generate tests, explain unfamiliar code, propose bug fixes, and create working prototypes from natural-language instructions. A programmer can often produce more code in less time than was possible only a few years ago.
More code creates more code to understand
Generating code quickly does not guarantee that it is secure, maintainable, efficient, or even correct. AI can confidently use an outdated library, misunderstand an edge case, duplicate functionality that already exists, or introduce a vulnerability hidden inside code that looks reasonable. The programmer's role therefore shifts toward reading, testing, debugging, integrating, and deciding what code should exist.
- Routine coding and conversion tasks face significant automation pressure.
- Prototyping can happen much faster.
- Understanding existing systems may become more valuable than memorizing syntax.
- Testing, security review, architecture awareness, and debugging become stronger career defenses.
For someone entering programming, learning to work with AI is important, but learning what the generated code actually does is more important. The future programmer may write fewer lines by hand while taking responsibility for a much larger amount of machine-generated software.
Labor-market picture
Two measures, different questions
These measures offer two different ways to understand the occupation: BLS projections show how national employment may change over time, while relative AI exposure highlights where tasks may intersect with AI-related capabilities. Read them with the work profile and your local context to decide what deserves closer investigation.
Employment
- Employment, 2025
- 110,800 jobs
- Projected employment, 2035
- 102,700 jobs
- Projected change, 2025–2035
- -8,100 jobs (-7.3%)
Relative AI exposure
BLS category: Very high. This is a relative task-exposure classification, not a forecast of employment change, automation, wages, or worker replacement.
Relative AI exposure · Very high
Work profile
Representative tasks
These task statements come from O*NET 31.0. They are source facts, not labels assigned by the AI exposure measure.
- Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
- Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
- Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
- Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.
- Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
- Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
Skills that matter
Skills in the source profile
Importance uses O*NET's 1–5 scale. Level uses its 0–7 scale. Select a skill to see its source definition and reported values.
Technology and tools
These technology records come from O*NET and show software or tools reported in the occupation profile. They describe work context, not a required checklist for every employer.
- Development environment software
- Object or component oriented development software
- Document management software
- Web platform development software
- Web page creation and editing software
- Graphics or photo imaging software
- Data base management system software
- Data base user interface and query software
Preparation
- Typical entry education
- Bachelor's degree
- Related experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
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Source provenance
Labor-market and exposure facts: bls-ep-2025-35. Work profile: onet-31.0. Verify release details on the Sources page.