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How exposed to AI is a Computer Programmer?

Of the 17 tasks O*NET lists for computer programmers, 8 could be done in half the time with a chat window today. 1 cannot be sped up at all. Here is which.

Exposure means published research judged an AI could halve the time a task takes, at the same quality. It does not mean the task stops needing a person. How to read this

Also called
Analyst ProgrammerApplication Programmer AnalystComputer ProgrammerComputer Programmer AnalystInternet ProgrammerJava DeveloperProgrammerProgrammer AnalystWeb Applications ProgrammerWeb Programmer
Reachable today Needs software built first Cannot be sped up
17
tasks rated for this occupation
88%
hold a degree, from a survey of 22
153k
people do this job in the US
16 of 36
least protected in computing and maths

Every task, and what AI can do with it

These are O*NET's task statements for this occupation, exactly as written, sorted into the three bands by the ratings behind this report. Nothing has been reworded.

Reachable with a chat window today

8
  • Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic
  • Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced
  • 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
  • Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct
  • Write or contribute to instructions or manuals to guide end users
  • Train subordinates in programming and program coding
  • Develop Web sites
  • Train users on the use and function of computer programs

Only with software built on top

8
  • Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements
  • 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
  • Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program
  • Consult with and assist computer operators or system analysts to define and resolve problems in running computer programs
  • Perform systems analysis and programming tasks to maintain and control the use of computer systems software as a systems programmer
  • Investigate whether networks, workstations, the central processing unit of the system, or peripheral equipment are responding to a program's instructions
  • Assign, coordinate, and review work and activities of programming personnel
  • Collaborate with computer manufacturers and other users to develop new programming methods

Cannot be sped up

1
  • Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes
What this does not say

This is not a prediction about your job

Nobody surveyed an employer. Tasks are counted equally, so a percentage here is a share of the list rather than a share of your week. And the ratings were made in 2023, which makes every figure a floor rather than a ceiling.

It must never be used to select anyone for redundancy. The full limits are here.

Where to go next

This is the standard task list for the title. The useful next question is which of the tasks you actually do should go near AI, and which should not.

Sort your own tasks Read the full report

Exposure ratings from Eloundou, Manning, Mishkin and Rock, GPTs are GPTs: Labor market impact potential of LLMs, Science 384, 1306–1308, 2024, used under the MIT licence. This page includes information from the O*NET Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. People Team AI has modified all or some of this information. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. Employment figures from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.