How to Land a High Paying Programming Job in 7 Steps: No CS Degree Required

Are you tired of working low-paying jobs as a programmer despite putting in long hours and honing your skills? Do you want to break into the lucrative world of high paying programming jobs but don’t have a computer science degree? Fear not! Landing a high paying programming job is not solely dependent on having a degree, but rather on your skills and experience. In this article, we will walk you through seven steps to help you secure a high paying programming job without a computer science degree. With dedication and hard work, you can join the ranks of successful programmers and start earning the salary you deserve.

1. Master a few high-value technologies

It’s essential to keep up-to-date with the latest developments and advancements in your field, as technology is constantly evolving. Familiarize yourself with the most sought-after technologies in the industry and make sure you understand their architecture and how they work.

To determine which technologies are in high demand, research the job postings in your area and see which skills are required most often. Some examples of high-value technologies include web development (e.g. React, Angular, Vue), mobile development (e.g. iOS, Android), cloud computing (e.g. AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), and data engineering (e.g. SQL, NoSQL, Big Data).

2. Build a strong portfolio

Your portfolio is a crucial aspect of landing a high paying programming job. It showcases your skills, projects, and experience to potential employers. Your portfolio should be an online platform that demonstrates your technical abilities, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

Include both personal and professional projects in your portfolio. If you don’t have any professional experience, consider participating in open-source projects or working on side projects to build your portfolio. The key is to show that you are passionate about programming and are continually working to improve your skills.

Networking is an essential part of finding a high paying programming job. Attend industry events, join online forums, and participate in coding competitions to meet other programmers and establish connections. Collaborating with other programmers on projects or contributing to open-source projects can also be a great way to gain experience and build your network. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other programmers for advice or mentorship. Establishing strong relationships with other professionals in your field can lead to job referrals and opportunities down the line.

3. Build an online presence

Having an online presence is crucial in today’s job market, especially in the tech industry. Employers will often search for you online to learn more about you and your skills. By building an online presence, you can showcase your knowledge, skills, and personality to potential employers and make yourself more discoverable.

Start by creating a professional profile on LinkedIn, a social media platform specifically designed for professionals. Update your profile with your experience, skills, and portfolio. Share relevant articles, blog posts, and projects to demonstrate your knowledge and keep your followers updated on your journey.

You can also start a personal blog or create a GitHub account to showcase your code and projects. This will give potential employers a more in-depth look at your skills and how you approach problems.

Remember, your online presence should be professional and showcase your skills, knowledge, and experience in the best light possible. So, be mindful of what you post and how you present yourself online.

4. Strengthen your soft skills

Soft skills, such as effective communication, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork, are highly valued by employers in the tech industry. These skills demonstrate your ability to work well with others, handle challenging situations, and effectively communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

To improve your soft skills, you can:

• Participate in team projects to improve your teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Practice explaining technical concepts to non-technical people to improve your communication skills.
• Read books or take courses on time management and problem-solving to enhance these skills.
• Seek feedback from colleagues and mentors to identify areas for improvement and work on enhancing your soft skills.

Having strong soft skills can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a high paying programming job.

5. Get certified

Certifications can help validate your skills and knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to your profession. They are often a prerequisite for some high paying programming jobs and can give you an edge over other candidates in a competitive job market.

Make sure to choose certifications from reputable sources such as major tech companies (e.g. AWS, Microsoft, Google) or industry-recognized organizations (e.g. CompTIA, Oracle). Obtaining certifications in high-demand technologies, such as cloud computing or data science, can increase your chances of landing a high paying job.

It’s important to note that certifications are just one piece of the puzzle. Employers also value real-world experience and a strong portfolio, so make sure to balance your focus between obtaining certifications and gaining practical experience.

Continuously improve your skills

The tech industry is constantly changing and evolving, so it’s crucial to continually improve your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements. This will not only make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers but will also help you grow in your career and reach new heights.

Some ways to improve your skills include:

• Taking online courses and attending workshops and seminars.
• Participating in coding challenges and hackathons.
• Contributing to open-source projects.
• Staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and news.

Continuously improving your skills will not only help you advance in your career but will also keep you motivated and engaged in your work.

6. Grow a network

Growing your network is an important aspect of landing a high paying programming job. Connecting with others in the tech industry can provide you with valuable insights, opportunities, and support as you navigate your job search.

Here are a few ways to grow your network:

• Attend tech meetups and conferences in your area. This is a great opportunity to meet other professionals in the industry, hear about the latest trends and technologies, and make valuable connections.
• Engage online through social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter. Connect with professionals in your field, participate in relevant groups and discussions, and share your own knowledge and experiences.
• Participate in coding challenges and hackathons. These events provide a great opportunity to collaborate with other developers and make connections.
• Seek out mentorship opportunities. Working with a mentor can provide you with valuable advice, support, and insights into the tech industry.

Building a strong network can open doors to new opportunities and help you make connections that can lead to your next high paying programming job.

7. Get experience elsewhere

Gaining real-world experience is crucial in landing a high paying programming job, especially if you don’t have a traditional computer science degree. There are many ways to get experience outside of a full-time job, such as:

• Contributing to open-source projects: Open-source projects provide a great opportunity to gain experience working on real-world projects and collaborate with other developers.
• Volunteering for a non-profit: Many non-profits need help with technology-related projects and can provide you with valuable experience in a real-world setting.
• Interning at a top company: Internships can provide you with hands-on experience in a professional setting, as well as the opportunity to make valuable connections in the industry.
• Working on personal projects: Developing your own projects and sharing them online can demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers.
• Participating in coding bootcamps or online courses: These programs can provide you with structured learning experiences and the opportunity to apply your skills to real-world projects.

Having practical experience on your resume will make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a high paying programming job. It’s also a great way to demonstrate your passion for the field and your commitment to continuously learning and improving your skills.

In conclusion, landing a high paying programming job is within reach, even if you don’t have a traditional computer science degree. By mastering high-value technologies, building an online presence, strengthening your soft skills, getting certified, growing your network, and gaining experience elsewhere, you can increase your chances of securing a rewarding career in the tech industry.

Remember, landing a high paying programming job is not just about what you know, but also about who you know and the experiences you have. So, stay focused, keep learning, and be persistent in your job search. You’ll be surprised at how many doors will open for you when you have the right skills, network, and experience. Good luck!