Description
Computer systems developers and programmers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software and communications software. They are employed in computer software development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors.
Job Titles
- Computer programmer
- Operating systems programmer
- Programmer analyst
- Scientific programmer
- Systems programmer
Main Duties
- Write, modify, integrate and test software code
- Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required
- Identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions
- Prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software
- Assist in the collection and documentation of user requirements
- Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications
- May lead and coordinate teams of computer programmers
- May research and evaluate a variety of software products.
Workplaces
- Computer software development firms
- Information technology consulting firms
- Information technology departments in the private and public sectors
- Self-employed
Skills
- Digital Literacy
- Digital Production
- Troubleshooting
- Critical Thinking
- Evaluation
Abilities
- Fluency of Ideas
- Information Ordering
- Categorization Flexibility
- Deductive Reasoning
- Inductive Reasoning
Personal Attributes
- Analytical Thinking
- Attention to Detail
- Independence
- Adaptability
- Collaboration
Similar Occupations
- Information systems specialists (21222)
- Database analysts and data administrators (21223)
- Software engineers and designers (21231)
- Web developers and programmers (21234)
- Web designers (21233)
- Computer network and web technicians (22220)
- Information systems testing technicians (22222)
- E-business managers (10022.04)
Source: OaSIS
Employment Outlook
The employment outlook will be Good for computer systems developers and programmers (NOC 21230) in Prince Edward Island for the 2025-2027 period.
The following factors contributed to this outlook:
- Employment growth will lead to a moderate number of new positions.
- A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.
- There are a small number of unemployed workers with recent experience in this occupation.
The prospect for employment in this occupation is expected to be favorable, especially in IT consulting firms, financial institutions, and government agencies. These professionals design, test, and maintain software applications, operating systems, and digital platforms used in nearly every sector. While user-friendly development tools have made basic programming more accessible, the need for skilled developers with expertise in AI integration, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and full-stack development continues to grow. Employment prospects are strongest for those proficient in modern programming languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, SQL), and who can adapt to agile workflows and collaborative environments. Many roles are contract-based or project-specific, offering flexibility but requiring continuous skill upgrades. Individuals should focus on building technical portfolios, mastering coding fundamentals, and developing communication and teamwork skills to function in this fast-evolving field.
Here are some key facts about Computer systems developers and programmers in Prince Edward Island:
- Approximately 250 people worked in this occupation in May 2021.
- Computer systems developers and programmers mainly work in the following sectors:
- Computer systems design services (NAICS 5415): 42%
- Federal government public administration (NAICS 911): 31%
- Community colleges and C.E.G.E.P.s (NAICS 6112): 7%
- Provincial and territorial public administration (NAICS 912): 7%
- Insurance Carriers and related activities (NAICS 524, 526): 6%
- Less than 5% of computer systems developers and programmers are self-employed compared to an average of 13% for all occupations.
- The gender distribution of people in this occupation is:
- Men: 80% compared to 51% for all occupations
- Women: 20% compared to 49% for all occupations
- The educational attainment of workers in this occupation is:
- no high school diploma: n/a
- high school diploma or equivalent: 9% compared to 28% for all occupations
- apprenticeship or trades certificate or diploma: n/a
- college certificate or diploma or university certificate below bachelor’s: 53% compared to 25% for all occupations
- bachelor’s degree: 32% compared to 17% for all occupations
- university certificate, degree or diploma above bachelor level: less than 5% compared to 8% for all occupation
Source: Job Bank
Prevailing Wages
| AREA | LOW | MEDIAN | HIGH |
|---|---|---|---|
| PEI | $30.67 | $38.97 | $47.18 |
| Canada | $25.43 | $43.27 | $65.00 |
Training
There are no known training programs for this occupation in PEI. If you are aware of a local training program, please contact us.
There are currently no job listings for this occupation on WorkPEI.