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Computer Specialist, Graphic Artist, Information Technology Specialist, Multimedia Developer / Programmer, Software Developer, Video Games Programmer
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:
| Starting | $31.14 |
|---|---|
| Overall | $41.84 |
| Top | $54.54 |
Interest in analyzing information to develop logical and physical specifications and to research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products
Interest in precision working to test, correct and refine software code and to ensure applications meet original specifications; and in planning and scheduling work within set targets
Interest in speaking to discuss user requirements and to identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
Duties vary in this rapidly evolving role. In general, interactive media programmers:
Programmers must keep up to date with new developments. To do this, they share information via social media and open source websites and read computer-related articles, journals, and magazines. They also go to training courses and conferences.
Interactive media programmers often work in offices or studios. Their work spaces must be equipped with leading-edge technology. Some self-employed programmers work from home.
This job may require some overtime to meet project deadlines. It may also involve some travel. Programmers attend both in-person and virtual meetings (hosted with video-based apps).
Interactive media programmers need to possess:
They should enjoy:
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 67 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Nov 25, 2020 and Apr 21, 2021.
Review these skills to learn:
| Write, modify, integrate and test software code | 57 |
|---|---|
| Identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions | 51 |
| Personal Suitability: Organized | 49 |
| Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required | 47 |
| Personal Suitability: Initiative | 47 |
| Personal Suitability: Team player | 44 |
| Computer and Technology Knowledge: Software development | 41 |
| Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications | 40 |
| Personal Suitability: Accurate | 40 |
| Prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software | 37 |
Interactive media programmers often started in other positions. For example, they may have been graphic designers or software engineers. There are no standard education requirements. However, most employers expect applicants to have at least 2 years of related post-secondary education or experience for entry-level positions.
Computer technology is constantly changing. This means that interactive media programmers must continuously upgrade their knowledge.
Universities, colleges, technical institutes, and private vocational schools throughout Alberta offer many design and computer science programs. Before enrolling, prospective students should discuss their education options with experienced interactive media programmers and potential employers.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
For a broad list of programs and courses that may be related to this occupation try searching using keywords.
Information systems professionals investigate, analyze, design, develop or manage information systems based on computer and related technologies through the objective application of specialized knowledge and professional judgement.
Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta's Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act. This means that to call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the I.S.P. designation, you must be a registered member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta). You do not have to be registered if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.
The Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) has defined the body of knowledge required for certification and recognizes the many different ways this standard may be achieved. Applicants must provide documented evidence for 1 of the following I.S.P. designation criteria routes: (1) Established Academic, (2) IT Industry Leader, (3) Established IT Professional, (4) Education Plus Experience, (5) Exam, (6) Professional Experience Only (applicants must have entered the field prior to 1976), or (7) Upgrade from Candidate Status. For official, detailed information, visit the CIPS website, CIPS Alberta website or contact CIPS Alberta.
Information systems professionals who are registered and in good standing with a regulatory organization elsewhere in Canada may be eligible for registration in Alberta if registered professionals in the 2 jurisdictions have similar responsibilities and competencies. For more information, see "What if I am already certified in another province or territory?" and the Alberta regulatory authority (below).
Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta
PO Box 21085
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T6R 2V4
Phone Number: 780-431-9311
Toll-free phone number: 1-844-431-9311
Fax number: 780-413-0076
E-mail: alberta@cips.ca
Website: ab.cips.ca
Interactive media programmers work for:
They may also be self-employed.
Experienced interactive media programmers may move into related positions such as web designer or game developer.
Interactive media programmers are part of a larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2174: Computer programmers and interactive media developers. In Alberta, 78% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:
The employment outlook [pdf] in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, the 2174: Computer programmers and interactive media developers occupational group is expected to have an average annual growth of 1.9% from 2019 to 2023. In addition to job openings created by employment turnover, 269 new positions are forecasted to be created within this occupational group each year.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
Salaries vary and depend on the duties of the position and the person’s education and experience.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $18.00 | $39.70 | $31.14 | $32.69 |
| Overall | $26.45 | $58.96 | $41.84 | $38.78 |
| Top | $33.00 | $85.58 | $54.54 | $51.44 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| Public Administration | $90,104 |
|---|---|
| Information, Culture, Recreation | $89,440 |
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $87,366 |
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $84,210 |
| Finance, Insurance, Real Estate, Leasing | $76,000 |
| Manufacturing | $70,009 |
Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) of Alberta website: www.cipsalberta.ca
Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) website: www.ictc-ctic.ca
International Game Developers Association (IGDA) website: www.igda.org
Technology Alberta website: technologyalberta.com
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2018. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.