Computer Scientist

Business, Admin & Entrepreneurship

ANZSCO ID 2613

Summary

Software and Applications Programmers design, develop, test, maintain and document program code in accordance with user requirements, and system and technical specifications.

Employment Pathway

A bachelor or postgraduate degree in a related information technology field (such as programming, software engineering, software development or computer science) is usually needed to work as a Software or Applications Programmer. Some workers have a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification.

Top Skills Required

Programming - Writing computer programs for various purposes
Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes
Systems Evaluation - Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system
Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one
Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions

Key tasks

Researching, consulting, analysing and evaluating system program needs
Identifying technology limitations and deficiencies in existing systems and associated processes, procedures and methods
Testing, debugging, diagnosing and correcting errors and faults in an applications programming language within established testing protocols, guidelines and quality standards to ensure programs and applications perform to specification
Writing and maintaining program code to meet system requirements, system designs and technical specifications in accordance with quality accredited standards
Writing, updating and maintaining technical program, end user documentation and operational procedures
Providing advice, guidance and expertise in developing proposals and strategies for software design activities such as financial evaluation and costings for recommending software purchases and upgrades

Facts about this occupation

27% Growth

90% Full-time Share

$2,208 Avg Pay/Wk

177,700 Workers

37 years Avg Age

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