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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:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
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
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
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 for this NOC group 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.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
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 100 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Jan 28, 2022 and May 28, 2022.
Review these skills to learn:
| Write, modify, integrate and test software code | 66 |
|---|---|
| Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required | 58 |
| Identify and communicate technical problems, processes and solutions | 57 |
| Prepare reports, manuals and other documentation on the status, operation and maintenance of software | 46 |
| Assist in the collection and documentation of user's requirements | 46 |
| Health benefits: Health care plan | 44 |
| Health benefits: Dental plan | 44 |
| Personal Suitability: Organized | 43 |
| Assist in the development of logical and physical specifications | 42 |
| Personal Suitability: Team player | 42 |
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.
To expand or narrow your search for programs related to this occupation, visit Post-Secondary Programs.
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
Information systems professionals investigate, analyze, design, develop, or manage information systems based on computer and related technologies. They do so objectively applying specialized knowledge and professional judgement.
Information Systems Professional is a protected title under Alberta’s Professional and Occupational Associations Registration Act [pdf].
To call yourself an Information Systems Professional or use the ISP designation, you must register as a member of the Canadian Information Processing Society of Alberta (CIPS Alberta).
You do not have to register if you do not call yourself an Information Systems Professional.
For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Information Systems Professional.
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.
Note
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For example, only some of the new positions to be created will be for this occupation. It also applies to other data for the NOC group such as number of people employed.
Source: Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
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.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.
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.
To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.
Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.
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.
| 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.
Pay brackets for hourly wages
| 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.