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Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers  (NOC 2174)
Northeast Region
Description |  Titles |  Duties |   Related Occupations

Computer programmers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for microcomputer and mainframe software applications, data processing applications, operating systems-level software and communications software. Interactive media developers write, modify, integrate and test computer code for Internet applications, computer-based training software, computer games, film, video and other interactive media. They are employed in computer software development firms, information technology consulting firms, and in information technology units throughout the private and public sectors.

Web programmer, application programmer, business application programmer, computer game developer, computer programmer, e-business (electronic business) software developer, interactive media developer, multimedia developer, operating systems programmer, programmer analyst, scientific programmer, software developer, software programmer, systems programmer.

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Computer programmers perform some or all of the following 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's requirements
  • Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications
  • May lead and co-ordinate teams of computer programmers
  • May research and evaluate a variety of software products.
Interactive media developers perform some or all of the following duties:
  • Program animation software to predefined specifications for interactive CDs, DVDs, video game cartridges and internet-based applications
  • Program special effects software for film and video applications
  • Write, modify, integrate and test software code for e-commerce and other Internet applications
  • Assist in the collection and documentation of user's requirements
  • Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications
  • May lead and co-ordinate teams of interactive media developers
  • May research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products.
Included Cities in Region | Service Canada Offices

Sudbury, Elliot Lake, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Timmins, Algo, Blind River, Capreol, Cobalt, Englehart, Espanola, Garson Junction, Haileybury, Hearst, Iroquois Falls, Kapuskasing, Kirkland Lake, Mattawa, New Liskeard, Nickel Centre, Parry Sound, Powassan, Temiskaming Shores, Thessalon, Valley East, Blezard Valley, Carol Richard Park, Connaught Hill, Dowling, Elmview, Finntown, Flake, Guilletville, Hanmer, Laurentien, Levack, Lively, McCrea Heights, Naughton, Parkwood, Pinecrest, Porcupine, Pottsville, South Porcupine, Val Caron, Val Therese

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View a list of Service Canada offices in this area.

Outlook & Prospects for Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers in Northeast Region

The future forecast and current conditions for an occupation can vary based on location or due to changes in the economy, technology, or demand for a product or service.

Local Employment Potential Information

Table on the employment potential for Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers in Northeast Region as well as in the rest of the Ontario.
Location Employment Potential Release Date
Northeast Region <Not assigned> 2012-04-17

Compared to other occupations, this is not a significant occupation in this region.

In Ontario, the outlook for computer programmers and interactive media developers is expected to be average for the period 2012-2013. This is a relatively large occupation in the province with a workforce of 47,000 at the time of the 2006 census. Employment prospects for these workers will continue to benefit from the increasing use of computer and information technology by businesses. The strongest demand is expected to be for computer programmers and media developers with experience and up-to-date skills in programming environments such as Microsoft SQL Server, Java Script and Visual Basic. Highly specialised technical knowledge, combined with soft skills in communication and teamwork, will improve employment prospects. Some job opportunities will be contract or temporary in nature.

Demand for these workers will be moderated as companies continue to outsource the less complex programming work to lower cost providers outside the province. The availability of pre-packaged software solutions such as 'cloud computing' will also limit opportunities for certain programming functions. Some employers outside of the larger cities in Ontario may encounter difficulty recruiting and retaining these professionals. This occupation has a younger age profile compared to most Ontario occupations. As a result, retirements will not generate a significant number of job openings.

[ Source: Labour Market Information - HRSDC ]
Please consult the Ontario and Canada tabs for more useful information related to outlook.