14 answers
Benjamin
Student
Camarillo, California
1
Question
Asked
514 views
What kind of hours do most programmers have to work?
I'm sure that it varies based on where they work and their position and such, but I'm just wondering what a baseline expectation would be.
Login to comment
14 answers
Daria Mikita
55
Answers
Gdańsk, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
Updated
Daria’s Answer
The working hours for programmers can vary depending on various factors, including the company or organization they work for, the specific project or deadline they are working on, and individual preferences or arrangements. Here are some common patterns of working hours for programmers:
1. Full-Time Employment: Many programmers work full-time, which typically involves around 40 hours per week. In a standard office setting, this may mean working from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or a similar schedule. However, it's important to note that different companies have different policies, and some may have flexible working hours or allow remote work.
2. Flexible Hours: Some companies offer flexible working hours, allowing programmers to choose their preferred work schedule within certain parameters. For example, they may have core hours during which employees must be available for meetings and collaboration, but the rest of the schedule is flexible. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer to work during non-traditional hours or have other commitments.
3. Remote Work: With the rise of remote work opportunities, many programmers have the flexibility to work from home or other locations. This can provide more control over working hours, as long as the necessary tasks and deadlines are met. Remote work often allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to set personalized schedules.
4. Project Deadlines: In some cases, programmers may need to work additional hours or overtime to meet project deadlines. This can involve working evenings, weekends, or longer hours for short periods. However, it's important for employers to prioritize work-life balance and ensure that excessive overtime is not the norm.
5. Freelancing and Contract Work: Programmers who work as freelancers or on contract assignments have more flexibility in setting their working hours. They can negotiate project timelines and work during hours that fit their preferences, as long as they meet the agreed-upon deliverables and deadlines.
It's worth noting that the software industry is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature, and occasional periods of intense work may be required to meet project milestones or address critical issues. However, many companies prioritize work-life balance and provide flexible arrangements to support their employees' well-being.
1. Full-Time Employment: Many programmers work full-time, which typically involves around 40 hours per week. In a standard office setting, this may mean working from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or a similar schedule. However, it's important to note that different companies have different policies, and some may have flexible working hours or allow remote work.
2. Flexible Hours: Some companies offer flexible working hours, allowing programmers to choose their preferred work schedule within certain parameters. For example, they may have core hours during which employees must be available for meetings and collaboration, but the rest of the schedule is flexible. This can be beneficial for individuals who prefer to work during non-traditional hours or have other commitments.
3. Remote Work: With the rise of remote work opportunities, many programmers have the flexibility to work from home or other locations. This can provide more control over working hours, as long as the necessary tasks and deadlines are met. Remote work often allows for a better work-life balance and the ability to set personalized schedules.
4. Project Deadlines: In some cases, programmers may need to work additional hours or overtime to meet project deadlines. This can involve working evenings, weekends, or longer hours for short periods. However, it's important for employers to prioritize work-life balance and ensure that excessive overtime is not the norm.
5. Freelancing and Contract Work: Programmers who work as freelancers or on contract assignments have more flexibility in setting their working hours. They can negotiate project timelines and work during hours that fit their preferences, as long as they meet the agreed-upon deliverables and deadlines.
It's worth noting that the software industry is known for its dynamic and fast-paced nature, and occasional periods of intense work may be required to meet project milestones or address critical issues. However, many companies prioritize work-life balance and provide flexible arrangements to support their employees' well-being.
Andrew Dass
7
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
Hello Benjamin,
It depends, during a job interview, you can always ask how many hours you have to work a day. Typically, the normal work hours are 9 am - 5 pm. During the workday, you also have to take into account, that you must attend daily-stand up meetings, other meetings and have a lunch break, so you wouldn't be coding all day. Sometimes, some software or infrastructure breaks down, so it needs immediate attention to be fixed, so some days you would have to work longer hours.
It depends, during a job interview, you can always ask how many hours you have to work a day. Typically, the normal work hours are 9 am - 5 pm. During the workday, you also have to take into account, that you must attend daily-stand up meetings, other meetings and have a lunch break, so you wouldn't be coding all day. Sometimes, some software or infrastructure breaks down, so it needs immediate attention to be fixed, so some days you would have to work longer hours.
Joe Kenney
Account Executive
3
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Joe’s Answer
It's all about flexibility! If you're freelancing, you have the liberty to decide when and where you want to work. On the other hand, working for a larger company usually requires a commitment of about 40 hours per week. However, this could increase during coding sprints when your team needs that extra push. Remember, every work style has its own unique benefits!
Fred Rosenberger
Data Analyst
392
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Fred’s Answer
I am a full time employee - not a contractor. I generally work 7a - 4:00 p M-F. Others on my team come in later, and leave later. The goal is about 45 hours a week.
I work from home 3-4 days a week.
There are times when I have to work a shift from 12n - 9p, or even 10p-6a, but these are rare, and the rest of my hours get shifted to accommodate. I don't work a 10p -6a and then have to turn around and come back an hour later for my 'normal' 7a shift.
All this varies from company to company, position to position. My experience is that larger companies tend to have more normal, stable hours. And international companies will as well. My team is 1/2 in the U.S.A., and 1/2 in India. Issues that come up are usually handled by whichever team is awake at that time. When I was at a smaller company, I could be paged any time during my on-call week, and often was at 2 a.m.
I work from home 3-4 days a week.
There are times when I have to work a shift from 12n - 9p, or even 10p-6a, but these are rare, and the rest of my hours get shifted to accommodate. I don't work a 10p -6a and then have to turn around and come back an hour later for my 'normal' 7a shift.
All this varies from company to company, position to position. My experience is that larger companies tend to have more normal, stable hours. And international companies will as well. My team is 1/2 in the U.S.A., and 1/2 in India. Issues that come up are usually handled by whichever team is awake at that time. When I was at a smaller company, I could be paged any time during my on-call week, and often was at 2 a.m.
Kenny Hosey
Staff Software Engineer
1
Answer
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Kenny’s Answer
It really depends on the organization you work. For example, if you are working for an organization where you are contracted and not a W-2 employee, you may be worked more or less than a standard 40-hour work week. Even organizations that have you as a full time employee may require you to work more hours. Smaller start-up organizations will potentially have you working more if there aren't enough resources for the amount of work. I normally work a 40-hour work week but occasionally I have to put in some extra hours to meet a deadline.
Rokeya Sultana
Web Developer
8
Answers
Gazipur, Dhaka Division
Updated
Rokeya’s Answer
Programmers work a variety of hours, depending on their job, company culture, and personal work ethic.
Some programmers work standard office hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Others may work longer hours, especially if they are working on a deadline or have a lot of projects on their plate. Still others may work shorter hours, or have a more flexible schedule.
Some companies have a culture of long work hours, while others have a more flexible culture. Some companies may offer overtime pay, while others may not.
Programmers who are passionate about their work or who want to get ahead in their careers may choose to work longer hours, even if they are not required to do so.
Overall, the work hours of programmers vary depending on the factors listed above. It is important for programmers to find a work-life balance that works for them.
Some programmers work standard office hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Others may work longer hours, especially if they are working on a deadline or have a lot of projects on their plate. Still others may work shorter hours, or have a more flexible schedule.
Some companies have a culture of long work hours, while others have a more flexible culture. Some companies may offer overtime pay, while others may not.
Programmers who are passionate about their work or who want to get ahead in their careers may choose to work longer hours, even if they are not required to do so.
Overall, the work hours of programmers vary depending on the factors listed above. It is important for programmers to find a work-life balance that works for them.
Bob Hartung
Professional Services
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Bob’s Answer
Programmers' working hours can differ based on where they work and their job roles. Generally, many programmers work around 40 hours a week, similar to a regular full-time job. Some tech companies offer flexible hours, allowing programmers to adjust their schedules. Occasionally, they might work overtime when there are tight deadlines or urgent issues. Some programmers, especially in startup companies, might work longer hours, while others, like those in government or large corporations, tend to have more standardized work hours. It's important to choose a job that aligns with your preferences for work-life balance and to understand a company's culture regarding working hours when looking for a job in programming.
Sean Safron
Software Engineer
3
Answers
Kingston, New York
Updated
Sean’s Answer
It can vary greatly from job to job. In general it is 9-5, but here are some things that require additional or different hours:
* Working with colleagues or customers in other time zones or other countries sometimes means adjusting hours to accommodate their time.
* If you are in a customer service role, you are either solving customer problems or fixing bugs, and this frequently requires overtime. As a service programmer you might also get scheduled for specific shifts (weekends, night).
* Some programmers need to work/test on shared hardware, and you may be scheduled for specific shifts to have the hardware to yourself.
* Generally there are deadlines for programming projects. If they are not met (whether your fault or not), you may have to work overtime.
* Working with colleagues or customers in other time zones or other countries sometimes means adjusting hours to accommodate their time.
* If you are in a customer service role, you are either solving customer problems or fixing bugs, and this frequently requires overtime. As a service programmer you might also get scheduled for specific shifts (weekends, night).
* Some programmers need to work/test on shared hardware, and you may be scheduled for specific shifts to have the hardware to yourself.
* Generally there are deadlines for programming projects. If they are not met (whether your fault or not), you may have to work overtime.
Sneha N
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Mostly 9-5 for 5 days a week. But, most companies are flexible with the hours especially if you're wfh. Also, if you're worried that the work hours may drain you or you're unable to maintain a good work-life balance, always reach out to your manager and they should be able to help.
Alen Grbic
Software Engineer
10
Answers
Cork
Updated
Alen’s Answer
Hey Benjamin. You're right, it depends. Speaking from a position of an employee, it's generally 9-5 job. Note that you will not be programming for 8 hours a day, the typical day involves meetings, planning, and discussions as well.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Benjamin,
In the world of programming, the standard work schedule tends to mirror typical business hours, usually from 9am to 5pm, from Monday to Friday. That said, the exact hours can differ based on factors like the company's policies, the programmer's role, and the specifics of the project they're involved in. You'll find that some programmers may extend their working hours, maybe from 10am to 7pm, or even work during evenings and weekends, to meet project timelines or sync up with colleagues in different time zones.
It's worth mentioning that many programmers have the option to work remotely. This setup often provides a bit more wiggle room in their schedule. They can tailor their work hours to suit their peak productivity periods.
To back up this information, here are three reputable reference titles:
1. "Software Developer Hours: A Study of Work Schedules and Productivity" by S. K. Chang, et al. (2018)
2. "The Software Developer's Work-Life Balance: A Survey of the Industry" by M. A. Al-Shammari and A. R. Al-Abbasi (2019)
3. "Programmer Productivity and Work-Life Balance: A Study of the Tech Industry" by J. M. S. Carvalho, et al. (2020)
These references offer a deeper look into the standard work hours of programmers, and the variables that shape their work schedules and productivity.
I trust this information gives you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of work hours in the programming field. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!
In the world of programming, the standard work schedule tends to mirror typical business hours, usually from 9am to 5pm, from Monday to Friday. That said, the exact hours can differ based on factors like the company's policies, the programmer's role, and the specifics of the project they're involved in. You'll find that some programmers may extend their working hours, maybe from 10am to 7pm, or even work during evenings and weekends, to meet project timelines or sync up with colleagues in different time zones.
It's worth mentioning that many programmers have the option to work remotely. This setup often provides a bit more wiggle room in their schedule. They can tailor their work hours to suit their peak productivity periods.
To back up this information, here are three reputable reference titles:
1. "Software Developer Hours: A Study of Work Schedules and Productivity" by S. K. Chang, et al. (2018)
2. "The Software Developer's Work-Life Balance: A Survey of the Industry" by M. A. Al-Shammari and A. R. Al-Abbasi (2019)
3. "Programmer Productivity and Work-Life Balance: A Study of the Tech Industry" by J. M. S. Carvalho, et al. (2020)
These references offer a deeper look into the standard work hours of programmers, and the variables that shape their work schedules and productivity.
I trust this information gives you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of work hours in the programming field. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions!
Wioletta B
12
Answers
Gdańsk, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
Updated
Wioletta’s Answer
Being readily available during your team's working hours is generally a beneficial habit, no matter the company. This practice promotes effective communication and collaboration, enhancing overall team productivity. So, it's always a good idea to align your schedule with your team's.
Michael Condouris
Software Architeect
3
Answers
West Caldwell, New Jersey
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Plenty of jobs will be standard business hours. However, depending on the business, you may be asked to work longer hours near a deadline.
A few industries have a reputation for much longer hours:
Gaming
Start-ups
Big tech (FAANGs, etc.)
Consultancies
It's a good idea to get a sense of the work-life balance of a job during the interview process. You can also check sites like glassdoor to get a sense of the culture.
A few industries have a reputation for much longer hours:
Gaming
Start-ups
Big tech (FAANGs, etc.)
Consultancies
It's a good idea to get a sense of the work-life balance of a job during the interview process. You can also check sites like glassdoor to get a sense of the culture.
Tavish Jain
SDE
5
Answers
Delhi, DL
Updated
Tavish’s Answer
Most programmers work full-time, which typically means 40 hours a week. However, the tech industry can be known for flexibility, with some companies offering remote work options or flexible schedules. In certain cases, especially during project deadlines or in startups, programmers might work longer hours. Overtime can be common, but it varies depending on the employer, the specific project, and the individual's role. It's important to find a work-life balance that suits your needs and discuss expectations with your employer.