Since Yosemite, OSX/macOS also supports JavaScript as an inter-process scripting language--officially known as JavaScript for Automation, also referred to as JXA. The documentation (and some would say, the implementation) is somewhat lacking compared to AppleScript, but if you're already more familiar with JavaScript than AppleScript, then it might be an option.
Like AppleScript, JXA also offers an ObjC bridge allowing you to use Cocoa APIs in your JavaScript.
Of course, with JavaScript you can use any code editor you like, though Script Editor and indeed Automator offer some debugging options that 3rd party editors probably won't give you.
Official resources:
- Mac Scripting Essentials (covers AppleScript and JavaScript)
- JXA Release Notes
Some unofficial resources:
- https://github.com/dtinth/JXA-Cookbook/wiki
- https://www.macstories.net/tutorials/getting-started-with-javascript-for-automation-on-yosemite/
- https://hackmag.com/coding/getting-to-grips-with-javascript-automation-for-os-x/
- https://tylergaw.com/articles/building-osx-apps-with-js
- http://stackoverflow.com/questions/tagged/javascript-automation