Coding skills are in demand in and out of the tech industry as companies increasingly rely on websites and software for daily operations. As a coding professional, you have many career paths to choose from. You can compare eight coding jobs and learn which programming languages align with each career opportunity in the following article. If you're ready to start preparing for your next role, consider enrolling to earn the Amazon Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate.

Read more: What Programming Language Should I Learn?

Murtadha Al-Tameemi, a Meta software engineer with a decade of experience, remembers a time when he frequently chose the comfort of frameworks he already knew over trying something different.

"I learned that was holding me back from growing and learning," he says. "Now I try to go out of my way to keep up with new technologies in my field and adopt the newest stuff even if it comes at the expense of slowing me down while I have to learn."

Eight coding jobs + relevant languages to learn

The prevalence of technology means that familiarity with coding can help across many jobs and industries. The list below includes coding jobs, salaries, and programming languages to learn if you want to pursue that career. Average median salary information comes from the latest statistics from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook as of December 2024.

1. Web developer

Web developers write code to create and maintain websites. Depending on the type of developer, you may specialize in front-end development (the parts of a site a user interacts with), back-end development (the behind-the-scenes part), or full-stack development (front and back end) development.

Median US salary: $92,750 [1]

Best coding language(s) to learn: HTML, PHP, or JavaScript for front-end; Python, Java, or Ruby for back-end

Read more: What Does a Web Developer Do (And How Do I Become One)?

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HTML, CSS, and Javascript for Web Developers

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HTML and CSS, Web Development

2. Software engineer/software developer

Software engineers build software applications such as computer games, web or mobile applications, and network control systems. Within this field, you might specialize in systems development, application development, or quality assurance testing.

Median US salary: $132,270 [2]

Best coding language(s) to learn: Python, Java, C++

Read more: What Does a Software Engineer Do?

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Python for Everybody

Learn to Program and Analyze Data with Python. Develop programs to gather, clean, analyze, and visualize data.

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Databases, Algorithms, Data Management, Data Analysis, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Problem Solving, Computer Networking, SQL, Theoretical Computer Science, Critical Thinking, Xml, Database (DBMS), Json, Web Development, Software Engineering, Data Structures, Computer Programming Tools, Data Visualization, HTML and CSS, Python Programming, Python Syntax And Semantics, Basic Programming Language, Sqlite, Tuple, Data Structure, Web Scraping

3. IT technician

While knowing how to code is only sometimes required to get a job in IT, basic coding skills can certainly help. IT technicians write code to automate solutions to common IT problems and administrative tasks.

Median US salary: $60,810 [3]

Best coding language(s) to learn: Python

Read more: What is an IT Technician? How to Become One

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Google IT Support

Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.

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Network Security, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Backup, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Directory Service, Critical Thinking, Network Model, Ipv4, Computer Architecture, Domain Name System (DNS), Troubleshooting, Human Computer Interaction, Accounting, Computer Networking, Cloud Computing, Network Architecture, Linux, Binary Code, Communication, Customer Support, Command-Line Interface, Linux File Systems, Powershell

4. Data scientist

Data scientists are in demand across various industries for their skills in leveraging data to help drive business decisions. In this role, you'll use programming languages to identify patterns and trends in data, build algorithms and models, and visualize data to communicate your findings better.

Median US salary: $108,020 [4]

Best coding language(s) to learn: SQL, Python, R

Read more: Python or R for Data Analysis: Which Should I Learn?

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IBM Data Science

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Data Science, Generative AI, Predictive Modelling, Data Analysis, Model Selection, Data Visualization, Python Programming, Pandas, Numpy, Dashboards and Charts, Matplotlib, dash, Relational Database Management System (RDBMS), Cloud Databases, Jupyter notebooks, SQL, regression, Clustering, SciPy and scikit-learn, classification, Machine Learning, CRISP-DM, Data Mining, Methodology, K-Means Clustering, Github, Jupyter Notebook, Data Science Methodology, Rstudio, Deep Learning, Big Data, Quering Databases, Data Generation, Interviewing Skills, Resume Building, Career Development, Job Preparation

5. Systems administrator

Systems administrators, sometimes called sysadmins, ensure a company's computer systems are functional and efficient. This typically involves configuring, upgrading, and troubleshooting servers and networks and monitoring security. 

Median US salary: $95,360 [5]

Best coding language(s) to learn: Python, Perl, Bash, PowerShell

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Google IT Automation with Python

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Configuration Management, Automation, Troubleshooting & Debugging, Using Version Control, Python Programming, Finding the Root Cause of a Problem, Understanding Errors, Managing Scarce Resources, Advanced Troubleshooting, Improving Software Performance, Basic Monitoring & Alerting, Using Puppet, Automation at Scale, Cloud Computing, Serialization, Building a Solution, Creating and Translating Media Files, Interacting with Web Services, Automating System Administration Tasks with Python, Testing in Python, Regular Expression (REGEX), Setting up your Development Environment, Bash Scripting, Creating Pull Requests, Reverting Changes, Interacting with GitHub, Using Git, Version Control Systems, Basic Python Syntax, Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), Fundamental Programming Concepts, Basic Python Data Structures

6. Product manager

Product managers oversee the vision, business strategy, and development of specific products. As a product manager developing digital products, you may find that coding experience can help facilitate better team communication and help you troubleshoot technical issues as they arise.

Median US salary: $169,510 [6]

Best coding language(s) to learn: JavaScript, Python, SQL

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JavaScript for Beginners

Build Your Skills in JavaScript and jQuery. Start a journey to using JavaScript to become a programmer.

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Interactive Design, web interactivty, Computer Programming, Data Manipulation, Programming Principles, Web Development, HTML and CSS, JavaScript, Jquery, animations

7. Cybersecurity analyst

As a cybersecurity analyst, it's your job to protect your company's networks from unauthorized access and respond to security breaches when they do happen. A foundational understanding of programming empowers security analysts to automate some everyday security tasks.

Median US salary: $120,360 [7]

Best coding language(s) to learn: JavaScript, Python, C, C++

Read more: What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? 2025 Job Guide

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IBM Cybersecurity Analyst

Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst . Build job-ready skills for an in-demand role in the field, no degree or prior experience required.

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Cybersecurity Compliance, Database Queries, Digital Forensics, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Cybersecurity Case Study Analysis, Incident Response, Cybersecurity Controls, Physical Threats and Controls, Cybersecurity Threats, Laws and Regulations, Risk Management, Cybersecurity Standards, Cybersecurity Framework, Linux, Windows, MacOS, User Accounts, Virtualization, User (Computing), Operating Systems, Directory and File Management, Certification exam practice, CompTIA CySA, CompTIA Security+, Cybersecurity, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cryptography, Cyber Threat Hunting, Penetration Test, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Incident management, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Vulnerability Management, Application Security, Information Security (INFOSEC), Cyberattacks, Cybersecurity Incident Management, Security Analysis and Reporting, Digital Evidence Handling, Resume, Interviewing Skills, Job Search Strategies, Cybersecurity Careers, job interviews, Digital Network Architecture, Data Security, Intrusion Detection Systems, Network Configuration, Endpoint Security, Firewall Configuration, Password policies, User profiles, Database Security, Database injection vulnerabilities, Database auditing models, CompTIA Certifications, ISC2 certifications

8. User experience (UX) designer

UX designers help ensure that digital products are usable, accessible, and enjoyable by designing with the end user in mind. While you don't have to know how to code to be a UX designer, having this skill may make you a better collaborative partner with the engineers you work with.

Median US salary: $83,240 [1]

Best coding language(s) to learn: HTML, CSS, JavaScript

Read more: What Does a UX Designer Do?

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Google UX Design

Get on the fast track to a career in UX design. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.

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User Experience, Wireframe, User Experience Design (UXD), Prototype, UX Research, User Experience (UX), Figma, mockup, Usability Testing, UX design jobs

5 coding languages for beginners

If you're new to coding, start with one of these programming languages:

1. Swift: This language is used to create many Apple products, including iOS, tvOS, and macOS applications. It was built to be easy and efficient, with a simple syntax that you'll be able to understand even without any coding experience.

2. JavaScript: This is another prevalent language used to create content on the internet, and front-end developers are particularly fond of it. It's easy to learn because it's so widespread with a helpful community, and it's made with non-programmers in mind, making it a good starter language.

3. C: This general-purpose coding language is a good foundation, and it's commonly used to build applications ranging from Unix to Windows to Photoshop. It has a simple 32-word syntax with easily understood data structures.

4. Python: Data scientists, AI/machine learning professionals, web developers, and embedded application developers often prefer using Python. It's got plenty of white space and numerous libraries that help make this high-level, general-purpose language easy to learn.

5. Java: This general-purpose, object-oriented language is popular with back-end developers and anyone creating security applications. It has a concise, intuitive syntax and structure that makes learning easy.

Tips for getting a coding job

As you start looking for your next coding job, keep these tips in mind: 

You can gain experience through freelancing. 

Many organizations need computer programmers and coders to solve their problems, and they're sometimes willing to hire someone with less experience. 

Freelancers often take jobs that don't require full-time employees but still are necessary to have done. These temporary positions can be an effective way to build your portfolio and resume. 

Examples of businesses that might hire you as a freelance coder include entrepreneurs, small businesses, and individuals needing help with coding.

Read more: Computer Science Internships: Your Guide for 2025

Build a programming portfolio. 

Portfolios are everything for coders. The old adage for writers, "Show, don't tell," also applies to coders. Having a well-rounded portfolio can be a real asset when looking for coding jobs. 

To create one, you'll need some projects to showcase. If you went through bootcamp or completed certifications, you should have some projects to use. Go through your projects and make sure your code is efficient and readable, and add comments to explain different parts of it.

Read more: 7 UX Designer Portfolio Examples: A Beginner's Guide

Enhance your resume.

The portfolio is essential, but you still need a strong resume. We've got a few tips to help get you started with creating it:

• Include all programming languages you're proficient in and your level.

• List relevant workplace skills, including the ability to think analytically.

• Tailor your resume to the coding job you're applying for by matching your experience with the job description.

• Demonstrate the impact you made in past roles using metrics when possible.

Read more: Software Engineer Resume: Examples, Tips, and More for 2024

Prepare for a technical interview.

You may be asked to complete a technical interview during the interview process for many coding jobs. These interviews often include questions about your technical skills and a live coding test. Ask the recruiter what you should expect from the interview process, and if that consists of a technical interview, spend some time going over common technical interview questions.

Can you get a coding job without a degree? 

It's entirely possible to get a coding job without a degree. With the proper support and training, you can launch a career in coding, and coding-related jobs are increasingly in demand. BLS projects that the IT field will grow by around 17 percent between 2023 and 2033, much faster than average for other occupations [8].

Although you can get a degree if you want to, you don’t need one to enter this field. Many jobs ask potential candidates to pass technical assessments before hiring them. You can master the skills you’ll need in various ways, including online courses, certifications, and bootcamps.

Build in-demand coding skills on Coursera 

If you want to pursue a coding job but you're unsure where to start, consider enrolling in the University of Michigan's Python for Everybody Specialization. You'll learn fundamental programming concepts with a beginner-friendly language, including data structures, networked application program interfaces, and databases.

Or, get started on your portfolio and the path to becoming a web developer with the University of Michigan's Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding Specialization. You'll learn how to build a responsive and accessible website using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript.

Interested in earning credentials from an industry leader in technology? Amazon's Junior Software Developer Professional Certificate program is an excellent place to start. You'll focus on building the skills you need for an entry-level role, including full-stack web development, object-oriented programming principles, and the software development life cycle.

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Databases, Algorithms, Data Management, Data Analysis, Computer Programming, Programming Principles, Problem Solving, Computer Networking, SQL, Theoretical Computer Science, Critical Thinking, Xml, Database (DBMS), Json, Web Development, Software Engineering, Data Structures, Computer Programming Tools, Data Visualization, HTML and CSS, Python Programming, Python Syntax And Semantics, Basic Programming Language, Sqlite, Tuple, Data Structure, Web Scraping

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Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding

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Interactive Design, Computer Programming, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), Html5, Strategy and Operations, Programming Principles, Computer Programming Tools, Web Development, Strategy, Design and Product, Responsive Web Design, HTML and CSS, JavaScript, Web Accessibility, HTML, Web Design, Bootstrap (Front-End Framework), Document Object Model (DOM), Style Sheets

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Amazon Junior Software Developer

Launch your career as a Junior Software Developer. Build job-ready skills for an in-demand career in software development in as little as 4 months. No prior experience or degree required to get started.

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Software Development, Generative AI, SQL Database Management, Full-Stack Web Development, Java Programming, Databases, SQL Queries, Java Database Connectivity, Algorithms, Java Structures, Recursion, Frontend Development, Backend Systems, Web APIs, Full-Stack Development, JavaScript, Object-Oriented Programming, Software Development Lifecycle, Java Development Environment, Executing Java Code, Version Control, Software Project Planning and Design, Testing and Debugging, Document a Requirements Analysis, Agile Software Development, Task Optimization, Coding Automation, Decision-Making, Performance Evaluation, Bug Detection, Serialization, Deserialization Techniques, Exception Handling, Classes, Java Coding