They're positions for very experienced programmers. The job titles vary greatly, but do include "software engineer". They will not only have a high programming

They're positions for very experienced programmers. The job titles vary greatly, but do include "software engineer". They will not only have a high programming competency, they will also have a fluency in the commercial domain: They will know the difference between what the boss wants, and what the boss asks for. NB It is their problem, not their bosses'. They often possess niche and unique experiences. They can network and know how to sell the link between their skills and direct company value. They may also be recognisable figures. Most of the people I know who make this kind of money do not get int a room with puzzles or "well defined product specs" slipped under the door to solve in, having "however long it takes" to get it done. They don't sit at a bug tracker and tick things off. They work for that money. Yes, they program. Is this the kind of programmer you want to be?