Microcontroller programmer: the specifics of the profession and job responsibilities
Many modern professions include several specialties. For example, microcontroller programmers are in demand in modern society. This employee combines two professions: a programmer and an electronics engineer. The activity is quite complex and multifaceted.
The specifics of the profession
The microcontroller is a special microcircuit. It is designed to control electronic devices. They are mainly used in embedded systems, equipment, electrical appliances, toys. Specialists whose activities are related to the software part of microcontrollers can hardly be classified as classical software developers. The fact is that a person, in addition to the basics of programming, must have appropriate knowledge about "hardware".
For this activity, the following character traits are important: attentiveness, perseverance and the ability to work in multitasking mode. A person with a bad memory is unlikely to be able to master this profession.
Job responsibilities
First of all, a microcontroller programmer must be fluent in C / C ++ programming languages and assembler.
The key functions of a specialist whose work is related to controllers include:
- creation of digital type circuits, software;
- preparation of circuitry and subsequent approval;
- change and support of existing programs;
- testing and correcting possible errors in the operation of microcontrollers;
- support of mass production and participation in various kinds of tests.
In addition, one of the specializations of this profession is firmware developer.Modern electronics are almost entirely based on programmable circuits that are constantly being updated.
Advantages and disadvantages
This profession is quite complex and multifaceted. It's about constant development and self-improvement.
The advantages of this activity include the following nuances:
- high profit payment;
- continuous professional development;
- respect from colleagues and employer;
- the opportunity to attend international events for programmers;
- being in a comfortable, warm office.
However, there are still shortcomings in the work. For example, a microcontroller programmer spends most of his time in front of a computer in a sitting position. Also the profession involves serious mental activity. Sometimes it leads to overwork.... Also, programmers are unlikely to be called sociable people. As part of their work, they most often communicate directly with colleagues in their department. Activity cannot be classified as social and creative.
It is acceptable that this employee goes on long business trips to other cities and countries. However, his working conditions are hardly dangerous. Hot spots are out of the question.
Training and salary
In order to master the profession of a microcontroller programmer, it is necessary to begin to acquire certain skills at a young age. In Russia, this service market is quite new, so many master this specialty after 30 years.
A microcontroller programming specialist, in addition to the C / C ++ and assembler languages, must master the intricacies of general computer science: transmission protocols, principles of ADC / DAC operation, keys. In addition, the employee is required to read and understand the technical documentation. in a foreign language (mainly English).
However, theory alone is not enough - practical skills are required.
Today it will not be difficult to find specialized literature on this profession. In books, a novice programmer will find the necessary information about future work. However, the amount of information is quite impressive. The fact is that the training literature provides detailed instructions for working with each controller. Undoubtedly for this to get a job in a serious organization, you need a higher education. However, for a beginner specialist, it is enough to take special training courses..
As for the salary of a specialist programming microcontrollers, it is quite high by today's standards. In Russia, such an employee can earn from 70 to 300 thousand rubles. It all depends on practical skills and abilities, the desire to develop in this direction. A good microcontroller software developer is highly regarded abroad. However, given the level of competition in Japan, the United States and Canada, the specialist must go through several serious stages of the interview.
Today this profession is on the list of one of the most demanded in the whole world.
