Computer programmers
SOC Code: 15-1251
Computer programmers carries a 54% AI exposure score (High automation risk), with a median annual wage of $98,670 and -6.0% projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034 (BLS), affecting approximately 121,200 workers. Full task breakdown, skills, and employer data are below.
Proportion of tasks susceptible to AI automation (O*NET analysis)
At 54% AI exposure, Computer programmers sits 17 points above the 37.2% average across 832 U.S. occupations - more exposed than 91% of them. Most of its core tasks still require human judgment.
Where Computer programmers sits among all occupations
AI-exposure score distribution across 832 U.S. occupations (O*NET task analysis). This occupation is marked in rose.
Computer programmers has ai exposure of 54%. Distribution: 1 occupations at 0-10%; 43 occupations at 10-20%; 184 occupations at 20-30%; 332 occupations at 30-40%; 158 occupations at 40-50%; 64 occupations at 50-60%; 29 occupations at 60-70%; 15 occupations at 70-80%; 5 occupations at 80-90%; 1 occupations at 90-100%.
Source: O*NET task data (U.S. Department of Labor); AI-exposure scores are PlainWorkforce's analysis. As of BLS 2024–2034.
Computer programmers vs. its occupational neighbors
AI exposure (horizontal) vs projected 2024–2034 growth (vertical) for occupations in the same SOC group. Computer programmers is marked in rose; the top-left corner is the most future-proof.
Source: BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034 (growth) and O*NET (AI-exposure analysis by PlainWorkforce).
Employment Projections
Occupation Insight
Computer programmers (SOC 15-1251) carries an AI exposure score of 54%, placing it in the High automation-risk tier. This score is computed from O*NET Database 30.0 task-level analysis, where each task an occupation performs is evaluated against current generative AI, robotic process automation, and machine-learning capabilities. A score in the 40–70% range indicates meaningful automation pressure on specific task categories, but the role as a whole still requires human judgment for coordination, exception handling, or client interaction.
The economic context matters alongside the risk score. BLS counted approximately 121,200 workers in this occupation in 2024, and projects a -6.0% change through 2034 - a decline that often compounds with high AI exposure to create displacement headwinds. Median annual compensation stands at $98,670, reflecting both skill scarcity and the value employers place on the tasks that remain difficult to automate. Entry typically requires Bachelor's degree, plus None of related experience.
For career planners, this profile should be read alongside the task, skill, and knowledge breakdowns below and the list of employers whose workforce composition includes Computer programmers. Adjacent occupations shown further down offer lateral moves that preserve industry knowledge while potentially reducing exposure. Pair the AI exposure score with the BLS employment projection and wage percentiles above for a complete career assessment.
Education & Entry Requirements
Top Tasks (O*NET)
- 1. Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
- 2. Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
- 3. Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
- 4. 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.
- 5. Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
- 6. Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
- 7. Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.
- 8. Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.
- 9. Train subordinates in programming and program coding.
- 10. Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs.
Key Skills Required
- Programming
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Complex Problem Solving
- Quality Control Analysis
- Reading Comprehension
- Systems Analysis
- Writing
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Speaking
Knowledge Areas
- Computers and Electronics
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administration and Management
- Design
- Education and Training
- Geography
- Administrative
Frequently Asked Questions
Will AI replace Computer programmers?
Computer programmers has an AI exposure score of 54%, indicating a high level of automation risk. Some tasks in this role can be augmented or partially automated by AI, but core responsibilities require human judgment.
What is the job outlook for Computer programmers?
According to BLS Employment Projections 2024-2034, Computer programmers is projected to decline by 6.0% over the decade. Current employment stands at approximately 121,200 workers.
What skills are needed for Computer programmers?
Key skills for Computer programmers include Programming, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, and others. Typical entry-level education is Bachelor's degree.
How much do Computer programmers earn?
The median annual wage for Computer programmers is $98,670, according to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Actual earnings vary by location, experience, industry, and employer. The BLS publishes detailed wage percentiles by region in its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.
What education is required for Computer programmers?
The typical entry-level education for Computer programmers is Bachelor's degree. Employers generally expect None of related work experience. On-the-job training typically involves None. Requirements can vary by employer and specialization.
Which companies employ Computer programmers?
Computer programmers roles exist across many industries and employers. Workforce composition is estimated from BLS industry-occupation employment distributions matched to SEC-registered public companies.
AI Exposure Rating
High automation risk based on 10 analyzed tasks. A moderate share of tasks may be augmented by AI tools.
Related Occupations
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Data sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2024–2034 and O*NET Database 30.0. Employment figures are rounded. Wage data from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics (OES).