21230 – Computer systems developers and programmers
This occupation is on IRCC's Express Entry high-wage list (median wage at least 1.5 times the average median wage). From November 3, 2026, 12 months of qualifying Canadian work experience in it can add 40 CRS points, or a qualifying job offer in it can earn 70 points. Only the higher of the two counts, not both.
Lead statement
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.
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.
Employment requirements
- A bachelor's degree or college diploma program in computer science, computer engineering or in another discipline with a significant programming component
- Specialization in programming for engineering and scientific applications requires specific post-secondary study or experience.
Example job titles
programmer analyst · detail programmer · computer programmer · mainframe systems programmer · operating systems programmer · scientific programmer · systems programmer · satellite scientific telecommunications programmer · electronic data processing (EDP) applications programmer
Wages (per hour)
| Province / territory | Low | Median | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | $25.43 | $43.27 | $65.00 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $23.94 | $40.00 | $69.71 |
| Nova Scotia | $20.00 | $38.46 | $69.71 |
| New Brunswick | $23.94 | $40.00 | $69.71 |
| Quebec | $25.43 | $42.31 | $69.00 |
| Ontario | $27.04 | $45.67 | $62.67 |
| Manitoba | $27.56 | $42.91 | $71.48 |
| Saskatchewan | $27.88 | $38.46 | $50.94 |
| Alberta | $19.23 | $40.87 | $57.69 |
| British Columbia | $28.57 | $44.00 | $69.23 |
Source: Job Bank wages, 2025 release (ESDC). Low and high are the 10th and 90th percentiles.
Occupation details: ESDC OaSIS 2025, based on NOC 2021.