Application Programmer in Missouri Career Overview

As an Application Programmer, you play a significant role in the development and maintenance of software applications that are essential for businesses and organizations across various sectors. Your responsibilities typically encompass the following:

  • Software Development: You are tasked with designing, coding, testing, and debugging applications according to the needs of users and businesses.

  • Problem Solving: Addressing technical challenges and optimizing applications to improve functionality and performance is a key aspect of your work.

  • Collaboration: Working closely with other IT professionals, such as system analysts and software engineers, is common, as it often requires a team effort to create a successful end product.

  • User Experience: You must consider the end-user when developing applications, ensuring that software is accessible, user-friendly, and efficient.

  • Innovation: As technology evolves, keeping abreast of new programming languages, tools, and practices is essential to stay competitive in your field and to enhance application features.

  • Documentation: You are responsible for creating and updating technical documentation that serves as a guide for future maintenance and updates.

Your contributions to the tech industry are vital, as the demand for effective software solutions continues to grow. With businesses increasingly reliant on technology for operational efficiency, the role of an Application Programmer is integral in driving innovation and enhancing productivity in this digital age.

Application Programmer Salary in Missouri

Annual Median: $104,600
Hourly Median: $50.29

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Application Programmer in Missouri

To become an Application Programmer in Missouri, you'll need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training that can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills. Below are the recommended college degree programs:

  • Computer Science

    • This program covers fundamental programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and software development methodologies.

  • Computer Programming

    • Focuses on the design, implementation, and debugging of software applications, providing practical experience in various programming languages.

  • Computer Programming and Vendor/Product Certification

    • Combines computer programming education with certifications from software vendors, enhancing your credentials and understanding of specific products.

  • Computer Software Engineering

    • Emphasizes the engineering principles behind software development, including software lifecycle, project management, and quality assurance.

  • Computer Information Technology Services Administration and Management

    • Prepares you for managing IT services and projects, covering both technical and business aspects of information technology.

These programs will equip you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to succeed in the field of application programming.

Best Schools to become a Application Programmer in Missouri 2024

#1Prince George's County

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD

In-State Tuition:$9,695
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,931
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:89%
Total Enrollment:40,792
#2Los Angeles County

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA

In-State Tuition:$63,468
Out-of-State Tuition:$63,468
Admission Rate:12%
Graduation Rate:92%
Total Enrollment:48,945
#3Taylor County

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY

In-State Tuition:$25,600
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,600
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:11,775
#4Champaign County

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,542
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,122
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:56,916
#5Benton County

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR

In-State Tuition:$10,425
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,200
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:34,292
#6Orange County

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA

In-State Tuition:$11,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$41,636
Admission Rate:21%
Graduation Rate:87%
Total Enrollment:35,937
Application Programmer Job Description:
  • 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.

Application Programmer Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri

  • Programming Languages Proficiency: You should be skilled in various programming languages such as Java, C#, Python, and JavaScript. Proficiency in these languages enables you to develop robust applications tailored to user needs.

  • Understanding of Software Development Methodologies: Familiarity with Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall methodologies is important. This knowledge helps you work effectively in team environments and meet project deadlines efficiently.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You must possess strong analytical skills to identify issues, troubleshoot problems, and develop effective solutions. This critical thinking skill is essential in enhancing application performance and user experience.

  • Attention to Detail: You should have a keen eye for detail to ensure that code is precise and free of errors. This competency minimizes bugs and enhances the overall functionality of applications.

  • Database Management Skills: Knowledge of database systems such as SQL or NoSQL is beneficial. You will need to design, implement, and manage databases to handle data effectively in your applications.

  • Version Control Systems: Proficiency with version control tools like Git is essential. This skill allows you to manage code changes, collaborate with others, and maintain a history of your work.

  • User Experience (UX) Understanding: A solid grasp of UX principles assists you in developing user-friendly applications. This competency enables you to create interfaces that enhance user satisfaction and engagement.

  • Continuous Learning: You should have a commitment to ongoing education and staying updated with the latest technologies and programming trends. This adaptability is key in a constantly evolving field.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for collaborating with team members and stakeholders. You need to articulate technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences.

  • Teamwork and Collaboration: Being able to work effectively within a team is essential. You will often collaborate with other programmers, designers, and project managers to achieve the desired application outcomes.

  • Time Management: You should be skilled at prioritizing tasks and managing your time effectively to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work under pressure.

  • Debugging and Testing: Proficiency in debugging and testing methodologies is important to ensure your applications function as intended and provide a quality user experience. Knowledge of frameworks for automated testing can also be advantageous.

Job Duties for Application Programmers

  • Analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan installation of a new system or modification of an existing system.

  • Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.

  • Confer with data processing or project managers to obtain information on limitations or capabilities for data processing projects.

Technologies Used by Application Programmers

Data base user interface and query software

  • Blackboard software
  • GraphQL

Development environment software

  • Oracle Java 2 Platform Enterprise Edition J2EE
  • Oracle SQL Developer

Object or component oriented development software

  • Apache Spark
  • TypeScript

Job Market and Opportunities for Application Programmer in Missouri

The job market for Application Programmers in Missouri is robust and expanding, driven by a combination of technological advancements and the increasing reliance on software solutions across various industries.

  • Demand: There is a strong demand for Application Programmers, fueled by a growing need for customized software applications. Businesses in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and education require skilled programmers to develop and maintain their internal systems and customer-facing applications.

  • Growth Potential: The field of application programming is expected to see significant growth in the coming years. As companies increasingly embrace digital transformation initiatives, the necessity for proficient programmers who can adapt to emerging technologies and programming languages becomes essential.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • St. Louis: As a major urban center, St. Louis boasts a diverse array of companies in need of application programming services, from startups to large corporations. The city's tech community is vibrant, offering numerous networking events and opportunities for collaboration.
    • Kansas City: Known for its growing tech industry, Kansas City is home to a range of businesses that require software solutions. The city has witnessed an influx of tech startups and established firms, resulting in a continuous demand for skilled application programmers.
    • Columbia: With its strong educational presence, Columbia fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for application programmers in various sectors, including research and development.
    • Springfield: This city is experiencing growth within its tech sector, and businesses are increasingly seeking software developers to create tailored applications for local companies and services.

Overall, the job market for Application Programmers in Missouri reflects a positive trajectory, offering numerous opportunities for those looking to enter or advance in this field.

Top Related Careers to Application Programmer 2024

Systems Software Engineer
Database Solutions Developer
Embedded Systems Programmer
Software Quality Assurance Engineer
Front-End Developer
Software Developer
Systems Programmer
Database Programmer
Web Programmer

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Application Programmer in Missouri

  • National Association of Programmers (NAP)

    • Website: www.nap.org
      A nonprofit organization that provides networking opportunities, resources, and ongoing educational programs for programming professionals.

  • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

    • Website: www.ieee.org
      IEEE offers resources related to computer science and software engineering, including access to journals, conferences, and professional development opportunities.

  • Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)

    • Website: www.acm.org
      A key professional organization for computing professionals, providing publications, conferences, and a variety of resources for career development.

  • Coursera

    • Website: www.coursera.org
      An online learning platform offering courses in programming languages, software development methodologies, and application programming from renowned universities and institutions.

  • edX

    • Website: www.edx.org
      Offers free and paid courses on software development and programming skills from leading institutions worldwide.

  • Khan Academy

    • Website: www.khanacademy.org
      Provides free educational resources on computer programming, covering the basics of programming languages and web development.

  • GitHub

    • Website: www.github.com
      A platform for version control and collaboration, it also offers a vast community of developers and resources for learning and sharing code.

  • W3Schools

    • Website: www.w3schools.com
      A popular educational website for learning web development and programming languages, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and SQL.

  • Stack Overflow

    • Website: www.stackoverflow.com
      A question-and-answer platform that is especially valuable for developers seeking community support for programming challenges and best practices.

  • Missouri Department of Economic Development

    • Website: ded.mo.gov
      Provides resources for job seekers in Missouri, including information on tech careers and job listings in the programming field.

  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Website: www.linkedin.com/learning
      Offers a variety of courses in application programming and related skills, providing a convenient way to enhance your qualifications.

  • Codecademy

    • Website: www.codecademy.com
      An interactive platform that teaches programming languages and application development through hands-on exercises.

  • FreeCodeCamp

    • Website: www.freecodecamp.org
      A nonprofit community that helps you learn to code for free by building projects and earning certifications in a variety of programming languages and technologies.

  • Pluralsight

    • Website: www.pluralsight.com
      An online technology learning platform with courses specifically for application programmers, covering everything from foundational programming skills to advanced topics.

By utilizing these resources, you can further enhance your knowledge and skills as an application programmer in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Application Programmer in Missouri

  • What does an application programmer do?
    An application programmer designs, writes, tests, and maintains software applications that fulfill specific user needs. You will typically work with programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++ to create functional and efficient software solutions.

  • What skills are required to become an application programmer?
    Essential skills include proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving abilities, knowledge of software development methodologies, and familiarity with database management. Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in teams are also important.

  • What educational background do I need?
    A bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is commonly required. Some positions may accept candidates with associate degrees or coding boot camp certifications, especially if you have relevant experience.

  • Is experience necessary to enter this field?
    While entry-level positions might be available for recent graduates or junior programmers, having internships, personal projects, or contributions to open-source projects can significantly strengthen your resume and increase your job prospects.

  • What industries employ application programmers in Missouri?
    Application programmers can find opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, education, and technology. Companies of all sizes, from startups to large corporations, require skilled programmers to develop and maintain their applications.

  • What are the typical work environments for application programmers?
    Most application programmers work in office settings, but remote work options are becoming more common. You may be required to collaborate with teams, participate in meetings, and interact with clients to gather requirements for applications.

  • What is the salary range for application programmers in Missouri?
    Salaries for application programmers in Missouri can vary based on experience, skills, and location. As of 2023, average annual salaries may range from $60,000 to over $100,000, with higher pay in metropolitan areas like St. Louis and Kansas City.

  • What career advancement opportunities are available?
    As you gain experience, you can progress to roles like senior application programmer, software architect, or project manager. Continuing education, certifications, and specialization in emerging technologies can also facilitate career growth.

  • What are common programming languages used in the industry?
    Common languages include Java, Python, C#, JavaScript, and Ruby. Knowledge of web development languages such as HTML, CSS, and SQL is also beneficial, as many applications interact with web services or databases.

  • How can I stay current with industry trends and advancements?
    Engaging in continuous learning through online courses, attending workshops, reading technical blogs, and participating in programming communities can help you stay updated with the latest technologies and trends in application programming.