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> **Possible Duplicate:**  
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> [Whats the difference between Entry Level/Jr/Sr developers?](https://softwareengineering.stackexchange.com/questions/14914/whats-the-difference-between-entry-level-jr-sr-developers) 
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There seems to be three common java programmer qualification levels:

* Junior
* Middle
* Senior

What makes a programmer "junior", "middle", or "senior"? Does it mean the the programmer has a specific amount of certifications or job expertise? How do IT companies decide what title to give to a programmer?