The Ultimate Career Resource For an Application Developer
With the development of technology, millions of people rely on various apps for different tasks.
That is why there are about 623,431 application developers in just the US.
It is an excellent career choice that can help you earn well.
The job outlook of the application development sector is much higher than other jobs.
Here are all the details you need to know if you want to become an application developer.
Application Developer Information
| Official Job Title | Application Developer |
| Average Salary | $106,497 |
| Stress Level | Low |
| Work/Life | High |
| Job Satisfaction | High |
| Career Advancement | High |
Application Developer Job Description
Here is a complete job description for application developers to help you understand their purpose:
What Is An Application Developer?
An application developer is an individual who can design, create, and update software programs for a suitable device.
For example, these experts develop apps for web and mobile phones.
They are an essential part of a project and can work in any industry.
What Does An Application Developer Do On A Daily Basis?
Application developers spend their day doing different tasks.
Their daily activities include creating different prototypes.
Not only that, but they have to code for each program within the given timeline.
Besides that, they primarily work in teams, so continuous interaction is also a significant part of their days.
Additionally, they have to troubleshoot their existing applications.
They also update the apps frequently according to consumer demands.
Responsibilities, Duties, & Roles Of An Application Developer?
App developers are an integral part of a project.
Their responsibilities include performing application evaluations.
Even debugging them is a part of their tasks.
Besides that, they have to develop solutions for their clients’ software.
They also have to modify the applications frequently.
Moreover, the professional has to create a handbook to note down their codes and designs.
One of the essential roles of a developer is to lead.
They have to instruct other members on how to use the new apps.
Additionally, they are in charge of ensuring that team collaboration is smooth.
Application Developer Salary
Here are the salaries of app developers based on their career level:
Average Salary
The average salary of application developers across the US is $106,497 per year.
The average wage per hour is approximately $44.
However, the salary figure can vary due to the company and location.
Some regions have a higher demand for app developers.
As a result, companies in those locations offer relatively higher salaries.
That is why you must research your area’s average annual pay.
Starting Salary
The entry-level salary of an app developer is $69,487 per year.
This figure will increase as you gain promotion and rise in the company.
Senior Salary
The salary of a Senior Application Developer in the US is $138,474 per year.
How To Become An Application Developer
If you want to become an application developer, here is what you need to know:
The Entry Level: Certification, Training, & Degree
To become an application developer, you need to have a bachelor’s degree.
This should preferably be in computer science or computer engineering.
These education fields will help you become well-versed in app development.
Besides that, some employers prefer to hire individuals with master’s degrees for higher positions.
So you should consider completing this if you plan to land a senior job.
Certifications are also not necessary, but typically developers do have at least one.
Furthermore, if you cannot pursue a degree, certifications, and training become a necessity.
You should also consider joining boot camps.
Even crash courses can help you achieve the skills.
Other Skill Sets, Requirements, And Qualifications
Generally, the skills of application developers fall into two categories.
Hard skills include essential technical knowledge.
So you must know how to script in different programming languages.
Besides that, you should know how to run performance and evaluation tests for different applications and platforms.
Soft skills include top-notch communication skills.
You must also know how to interpret users’ needs for creating suitable products.
How Long Does It Take To Become An Application Developer?
It takes about four years to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Besides that, certifications can take a few weeks or months.
Is It Hard To Become An Application Developer?
The answer to this question varies from individual to individual.
If you can survive the education pressure, becoming an app developer won’t be an issue.
Application Developer Career Paths
If you’re not sure whether this is the right career choice for you, there is no need to worry.
Here is what you need to know to make a suitable decision:
The Application Developer Roadmap
Firstly, you will have to spend four years completing the bachelor’s program.
While you pursue the degree, it’s preferable to complete different internships.
They will help you engage with other IT experts and companies.
To execute your job effectively, you should also opt for certifications.
They will help you develop the skills required for daily duties.
Not only that, but they can make your resume shine.
Projections For Growth In Application Developer Jobs
The growth projection in application developer jobs is 25%.
This is relatively faster than other jobs. That is why career advancement in this field is not an issue.
After working at an entry-level position for a year or more, you can gain a promotion.
But keep in mind that other factors affect advancement too.
These include skills, work habits, the number of successful projects, and much more.
In Summary: Is Application Developer A Good Career?
Application development is a promising career for many people.
If you can withstand the competition and have excellent development skills, your job will be great.
Working Conditions
Here are the general working conditions of application developers that you must know:
Can An Application Developer Work Remotely From Home?
The working conditions depend on the organization unless self-employed.
Most developers work from home by signing a contract.
So typically, an application developer works remotely.
Some companies may ask their developers to work from the office.
However, typically individuals set their schedules.
So the employees have a more relaxing working environment in this field.
How Many Hours Does An Application Developer Work?
On average, an application developer works forty hours per week.
Sometimes they also have to work overtime if deadlines are tight.
But the working time never exceeds fifty hours.
Can An Application Developer Work Part-Time?
Yes, application developers can work part-time as long as the employer allows.
Not only that, but some organizations offer higher schedule flexibility.
What Are The Average Vacation Days Of An Application Developer?
This is another thing that depends on the employer’s policies.
But typically, application developers get two weeks of vacation.
This is equivalent to ten days.
Alternative Careers & Similar Jobs to an Application Developer
- UI Developer
- Product Manager
- UX Designer
- Sound Engineer
- Product Engineer
- Video Game Writer
- Computer Engineer
- Technical Program Manager
- DevOps Engineer
- AI Engineer
- Cloud Architect
Resume Tips
Below are some tips that will assist you in landing the developer job:
- Use a simple template that does not hinder readability
- Always add relevant contact information which the employer can remember you by
- Add an impactful professional summary of your achievements
- List all the skills you possess that are relevant to the job
- Follow up with an HR manager by emailing a letter after two weeks of submission
- Add all the certifications you have achieved for the application developer job
- Use percentages to make up for the work you have done
With these seven tips, you can write a stellar resume.
This will help you impress the employer easily.
Thus, landing the job will be a breeze.
Interview Questions
Here are the most critical questions that you should always ask in an application developer job interview:
Q1: Which programming language do you find the best for developing applications?
Why it works: This will help you learn whether the candidate knows programming languages.
Q2: Name an application whose design you don’t like, and what solution do you have to fix it?
Why it works: This will help you gain insight into the candidate’s creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Q3: How do you minimize an application’s security risks?
Why it works: It will allow you to understand whether the applicant is suitable for securing your software.
Q4: How do you stop an app from crashing?
Why it works: This question will let you know if the candidate can maintain the applications after development.
Jobs Related To An Application Developer
Here are some jobs that are similar to application development:
- Software Developer
- Software Engineer
- Cloud Architects
- Software Analysts
- Database Administrator
- And much more
For HR Manager: Tips For Hiring An Application Developer
As an HR Manager, here are some tips to follow when hiring a suitable candidate for the job:
Key Characteristics To Look For In An Application Developer
Here are the top qualities to look for in a suitable developer candidate:
- Knows how to modify applications
- Programming and creative thinking skills
- Ability to analyze consumer needs
- Understanding of different platforms
- Ability to conduct pre-launch tests
Minimum Level Of Education & Expertise
The minimum level of education necessary is a bachelor’s degree.
Besides that, a few years of experience in the software sector is a must. Certifications are also preferable but not necessary.