In recent years, Python has emerged as one of the most popular programming languages in the world, especially when it comes to automation. If you have (or want to learn) Python coding and automation skills, you’ll have a wide variety of lucrative Python jobs to choose from. Here’s what you need to know about this advanced coding language, as well as some of the most promising career opportunities around it. 

What Is Python?

Python is an open-source, general-purpose computer programming language, which means it can be used for a wide variety of products and functions. For example, it’s used in Netflix’s recommendations algorithm and in self-driving car software. However, it can also be used for mundane practical tasks, like organizing finances. Some other uses for Python include:

  • Web development
  • Software testing and prototyping
  • Data analysis and machine learning
  • Automation or scripting

Why Is Python So Popular?

Python’s simple, easy-to-learn syntax emphasizes readability. This makes it easier to debug, significantly speeds up the edit-test-debug cycle, and reduces the cost of program maintenance. In addition, its built-in data structures as well as its dynamic typing and binding make it useful for developing applications faster overall. The kicker? It’s user-friendly, which means beginner coders can use it for anything from simple to complex programs. It’s also flexible, and can be used with Windows, Linux, or Mac operating systems (OS).

Things to Know About Python IT Automation and Testing

Along with Java and C#, Python is also one of the top programming languages for IT automation and automation testing. In its broadest sense, automation refers to the use of technology in ways that require minimal human input. Where software is concerned, automation refers to programming scripts that function as frameworks for executing mundane, repetitive tasks on their own, without human oversight or intervention. Automating programming tasks has two main advantages:

  • Automated tasks can typically run much quicker than manual ones.
  • Automated programming prevents the introduction of human coding errors, as it is done the same (correct) way each time.

For example, you can write Python automation scripts for proofreading text, playing random music, converting PDF to CSV, compressing photos, and even downloading YouTube videos.

Of course, before an automated programming script can be used reliably, it must be tested as part of a quality assurance (QA) process, much like any other product. This is where automation testing comes in. Python’s open-source nature and its vast complement of tools, libraries, frameworks, and available support make it a go-to language for testing automations.

All of this means that Python coding and automation skills are incredibly valuable in the IT job market. If you want to launch or further your IT career, it’s well worth learning and building these skills. 

Potential Career Pathways that include Python Coding and Automation Skills

Here are some examples of exciting and lucrative jobs that use Python programming and automation.

Software Developer

Python’s readability and extensive libraries make it a popular choice for software development. As a Python developer, you can work on web applications, data analysis tools, and more. You’ll be responsible for writing clean, efficient code, and you may also be involved in debugging and code reviews.

Data Analyst

Python’s powerful libraries like Pandas and NumPy make data manipulation and analysis a breeze. As a data analyst, you’ll be responsible for interpreting complex data and turning it into actionable insights. Your role may involve statistical analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling.

Automation Engineer

Again, automation is Python’s forte. With libraries like Selenium for web scraping and PyAutoGUI for GUI automation, Python makes repetitive tasks more efficient. As an automation engineer, you’ll be responsible for automating manual processes, thereby increasing productivity and reducing errors.

Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity analysts with Python skills can automate log analysis, packet analysis, and even write custom packet sniffers to enhance security measures.

DevOps Engineer

Python’s scripting capabilities are invaluable in a development operations (DevOps) environment. You can write scripts to automate server configurations or network monitoring, and even integrate with tools like Docker and Kubernetes.

Game Developer

Python’s Pygame library offers a platform for budding game developers. While Python may not be as fast as languages like C++, its simplicity and ease of use make it a good choice for indie developers.

Research Scientist

Python is widely used in scientific computing and data analysis. Libraries like SciPy and Matplotlib are commonly used in scientific research for tasks ranging from data visualization to complex computations.

Freelance Python Developer

Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer have numerous Python-related jobs. From web development to data scraping, the freelance market for Python skills is booming.

Get FREE Python IT Automation Training with JobTrain

You can get the training you need for IT automation — and a variety of other IT support skills as well. If you live near Silicon Valley in northern California, you can visit one of JobTrain’s four affiliated centers to inquire about free Python IT automation training to boost your qualifications and prepare for a high-quality job in a field that excites you.

JobTrain is an accredited educational and training institution that transforms lives and communities in Silicon Valley. We help the Valley’s most in need reclaim their lives from poverty and unemployment by preparing them for successful, sustainable careers in high-demand and emerging fields. Explore JobTrain’s supportive services and career training programs today!