Systems programmers work for IT departments of large organisations, software houses and consultants, electronics and software manufacturers.

What systems programmers do

• write the software, such as operating systems or low-level languages close to machine code, which enables the computer to carry out applications written in higher-level languages or pass messages to other equipment
• change established programs to perform different tasks
• find and rectify faults in software
• test programs with trial data to check they work under all circumstances
• prepare documentation describing the operation of software.

Key skills

• ability to analyse and think logically
• attention to detail
• ability to work to deadlines
• written and verbal communication skills
• numeracy
• knowledge of specific computer systems may be required.

Training to be a systems programmer

Large firms usually provide ongoing training. Smaller companies often expect trainees to learn informally.

The British Computer Society has established measures to record professional development.

Salaries

Trainee programmers typically earn from £18,000 to £28,000. Some consultants and investment banks pay as much as £35,000.

Knowledge of certain systems is in great demand and programmers with two years’ experience or more can earn up to £40,000, or gain promotion to senior programmer and/or go freelance.

Professional bodies

• BCS (British Computer Society)
• Institute of Scientific and Technical Communicators
• Institution of Analysts and Programmers

Related jobs

• Software engineer
• Systems manager