How To Find Part-Time Programming Jobs (With Job Types)

Updated 23 March 2023

Programmers have a major role in creating various types of programs, including websites and web applications. If you specialise in particular coding skills, you may be able to get a part-time role, leaving you enough time to pursue other projects. Understanding how to do this can help you decide whether this is the right choice for your career. In this article, we explain what a programmer is, how to find part-time programming jobs and what types of jobs are available in this field.

Salary figures reflect data listed on Indeed Salaries at time of writing. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organisation and a candidate's experience, academic background and location.

What Is A Programmer?

Programmers write code in different languages to create functional software programs, web applications and websites. They work on the backend of programs to ensure the functionality and quality of the codes they write by performing tests, installing updates and conducting routine maintenance. If you enjoy learning coding languages and developing software to complete specific tasks, you might want to become a programmer. These individuals use their persistence and dedication to learning to improve their abilities, and practice their skills. As technology continues to evolve, those with innovative approaches to programming may find success in this role.

How To Find Part-Time Programming Jobs?

If you are thinking about exploring part-time programming jobs, here are some steps you can take to help you find a suitable position:

1. Develop your network

As a programmer, you might contribute to open-source projects to advance your skills, practise your coding abilities and develop your professional network. As you talk to other programmers, respond to forum questions and have an active presence in the programming community, you can engage in networking opportunities. Asking your network for knowledge of job openings or part-time positions at their workplaces can help you identify opportunities and prepare your application. If you have contributed significantly to the project and proved your skills, consider asking your network for a reference or recommendation.

2. Develop a specialist skill set

You can improve your chances of getting a part-time programming position by developing specialist skills. If you have niche skills that an employer is seeking, they may be willing to negotiate part-time hours to accommodate your schedule. Use your portfolio and work experience to prove to a company that you have a unique skill set to match their requirements, and are an efficient coder. If you can demonstrate your unique suitability for the role, the hiring manager may consider offering you the position with reduced hours.

3. Look for part-time positions

Use online job boards or company website career listings to identify available part-time programming positions. Some online job search sites have options to filter job postings based on whether the employer is seeking a part-time or full-time employee. You can narrow down the job postings by using the available filters and identifying jobs that offer reduced hours or a flexible schedule. You can also use part-time in your query to review jobs for which employers are specifically seeking part-time candidates.

When you complete your application, mention your availability. This helps to ensure that the proposed work schedule is mutually acceptable to you and the employer. For example, if you cannot work weekends or specific weekdays, mention that in your cover letter to ensure the hiring manager is aware of your desired work schedule.

4. Prepare your resume and cover letter

When applying for part-time positions, use your resume and cover letter to reflect this objective. Mention your desire to obtain a part-time position in the professional summary section of your resume, and detail how this arrangement might benefit the employer. Outline your suitability for the role and how you can perform the job duties of the position effectively on a part-time basis. Consider including other activities you do outside work, including projects you contribute to or courses you are taking, to further explain your desire for a part-time position.

5. Consider remote or temporary positions

If you cannot find a part-time position, you might look for a remote or temporary position instead. Many employers allow their remote employees to set their schedules and work outside traditional work hours as long as they complete their job duties effectively. A remote position also eliminates the commuting time, giving you a more flexible schedule and better work-life balance. Alternatively, you can look for a temporary position that lasts for a few days, weeks or months until you can find a part-time job that suits your schedule and abilities.

6. Request part-time work at your current job

If you currently work a full-time job, you might ask your supervisor whether you can transition your position to accommodate a part-time schedule. When doing this, consider your reasons for adjusting your work hours, determine the responsibilities you might share with another colleague and determine your ideal working schedule. Book a meeting with your manager to present your findings and the details of your request. They may provide insight into your plan to transition to a part-time role, including task assignments and scheduling recommendations.

When you submit a formal request to management, consider suggesting a trial period to test the part-time schedule. Alternatively, you can present options for a slow transition from full-time to part-time hours. Ensure you are continuing to deliver high-quality work to reassure your manager that you can balance your responsibilities with the reduced work time.

Related: How To Find A Part-Time Job

5 Part-Time Programming Jobs

Here are five types of programming jobs you might pursue if you are seeking part-time employment:

1. Computer Programmer

National average salary: ₹2,68,239 per year

Primary duties: Computer programmers build, test and maintain code programs using various programming languages. They work with software developers to create instructions that computers and applications use to execute tasks. These individuals are detail-oriented and have advanced technical skills in several programming languages. They often work independently as part of a larger programming team, writing sections of code and structuring tests to identify bugs, and troubleshoot problems.

2. Web Developer

National average salary: ₹3,36,114 per year

Primary duties: Web developers write code in a variety of programming languages to create appealing, functional and user-friendly websites. They may work with UI and UX teams to design the concept, and build the website's functionality, ensuring intelligent user navigation and a positive user experience. These individuals work with server scripts, web hosting and various backend services, and databases to display information, and perform user actions. Developers work on identifying and fixing technical issues, solving cross-browser issues and debugging code regularly.

3. Software Engineer

National average salary: ₹5,68,049 per year

Primary duties: Software engineers work in most industries to design, develop and build computer systems, and software. They use mathematics, engineering and computer science to create a range of business applications, and systems that improve efficiency and organisation. Working closely with designers and programmers, software engineers implement new systems or modify existing software to achieve specific goals. They aim to develop applications that automate redundant processes, perform certain functions and solve end-user problems. These individuals can work in healthcare, human resources, financial services, retail, manufacturing, aerospace, education, e-commerce and transportation.

4. Quality Assurance Engineer

National average salary: ₹6,12,529 per year

Primary duties: Quality assurance (QA) engineers review software code to ensure it passes quality assurance checks before the company releases it to the public. They oversee the development and testing of software, and web applications to verify that the final product meets pre-determined quality standards and requirements. They prepare test cases and procedures to check software for bugs, record their findings and suggest changes to ensure compliance. They work closely with the product development team throughout the design, development, testing, revising and delivery phases of development to prevent inadequate products from reaching customers.

5. Technical Consultant

National average salary: ₹10,21,021 per year

Primary duties: Technical consultants work with businesses to implement IT systems and solutions to help improve efficiency. They design and set up hardware, and software solutions to resolve issues and enhance established IT systems. As consultants, they meet with management and stakeholders to evaluate issues, gather information about user requirements and offer solutions, and recommendations. They ensure that hardware and software remain compatible through various software updates, and maintain updated knowledge of technological advancements and solutions.