Systems Programmers

Systems Programmer Job Description

The primary responsibility of a systems programmer is to write the code that makes software run on computers and networks. The systems programmer also tests the existing system’s software to determine its continued effectiveness. Other systems programmer job responsibilities include eliminating viruses, maintaining antivirus software, and updating the system with the latest and most up-to-date antivirus and security system software available on the market.

System programmers, also known as system developers, are responsible for managing the internal workflows of a computer and its systems, which are vital for good systems administration. This could include using programming languages to develop diagnostic programs to find errors, or controlling the way the computer runs multiple applications at the same time. A computer system programmer who deals with the internals of an operating computer, such as a system administrator or a network administrator, is not only responsible for the system operation, but also for data management and data processing. Application programmers’ job description includes writing programs that process and manage incoming information from computers, databases, and systems, which may include everything from payroll data to scientific calculations.  

A systems programmer writes the program that lets the computer work with the system’s software. They are responsible for monitoring, testing, and re-testing computer system software to determine its effectiveness and reliability. The systems programmer job description usually includes creating programs according to specifications designed by a systems analyst or determined from direct consultation with the customer. They create detailed descriptions of implementation requirements and perform analysis and programming tasks, analyze requirements, and prepare workflow charts with a variety of tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.         

A computer programmer’s job description includes writing code that enables computer applications and software programs to function properly. The program design created by software developers and engineers is transformed into instructions that computers can follow. Project requirements are encrypted in computer language and entered into the computer as encrypted information. A systems programmer tests a newly created application or program to ensure that it delivers the expected results.    

Programs running on a particular computer system often require special modifications to the mainframe operating system to ensure system performance and effective system administration. It is the task of a systems programmer to adapt hardware and software to meet these requirements without compromising the performance of other programs or the computer system as a whole. Other systems programmer job responsibilities include evaluating the performance of hardware or software, confirming functionality, memory management, task scheduling, and performing scheduled maintenance to ensure systems run smoothly and error-free. Periodically, hardware and software in an existing computer system also require updates, including middleware, applications, file system, and programs running on the operating system.

The programmer of the security system will perform advanced system configuration and may train the end user in functionality. The tasks of the programmer include recording the commissioning, maintenance, and servicing of the operating system as well as controlling system operation. A security systems programmer keeps track of all information used during system startup and in the event of system failure. They develop processes to ensure a minimum risk of service and computer system errors, as well as plan for the installation and maintenance of computer system software and hardware.   

A systems programmer works effectively with a vendor's technical and marketing staff to evaluate, plan, and install software and hardware products. They write help files and solve technical problems such as configuration and maintenance issues. Collaboration with vendors of technical, marketing, and human resources services is also necessary during the evaluation, planning, and installation of software or hardware products. 

A systems programmer can control and maintain the use of computers, systems, and software. They examine the program instructions and the computer’s ability to respond to them, as well as the performance of the computer system. They consult and support computer operators and system analysts in defining and solving problems with running computer programs. System programmers change existing software to correct bugs, adapt it to new hardware, improve interfaces, and improve performance and system administration processes. They analyze information to determine, recommend, and plan the future performance of existing and new computer systems. Software developers develop applications for operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Windows Phone, Android, iOS, and Windows Mobile. The systems programmer tests the newly created applications or programs to ensure that they deliver the intended and expected result, as well as enhanced performance and reliability. Application programming includes the conception, implementation and maintenance of applications and OS systems.