How To Hire a Java Developer

The global developer population is expected to reach 28.7 million people by 2025.

Companies hire Java developers to build and maintain applications across multiple platforms, including web, mobile, and enterprise solutions. Java's versatility, longevity, and the large talent pool available contribute to the ongoing demand for skilled Java professionals.

Hiring a programmer takes time, knowing what questions to ask, and the specific programming language that you require your developer to hold.

In this article, we will share our tips on what to look for in a Java developer and where to find the best talent.

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What is Java Used For?

Java is a popular general-purpose programming language and can be used to write code for multiple different platforms at once. Here are some common uses of the Java programming language.

Java development encompasses a wide range of applications, from web to mobile to enterprise solutions.

Desktop Programs

Java is one of the easiest programming languages for writing software that can be used on multiple platforms and operating systems. The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is the core piece of software on which Java code runs, and has been developed to work on all major systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Popular Java frameworks like Swing and JavaFX are commonly used for building desktop applications.

Android OS Code

The Android SDK (software development kit) is written in Java. An SDK is a collection of tools within a single package. In this case, the SDK allows mobile app developers to write code for Android phones. While not every mobile app is written in Java, Java can help with the unique tools needed for writing these apps.

Embedded Systems

Many embedded systems are dependent upon Java. This includes devices such as traffic lights, microcontrollers, machinery, electronic toys, and factory controllers. Many modern Internet of Things (IoT) devices also use Java.

Scientific Research

Some computer programs used within the science and research sector are built on top of Java. One example of this is the MATLAB software, which is integrated with Java. Modifications of the MATLAB source code require the use of Java.

Benefits of Hiring a Java Developer

Hiring a skilled Java developer can bring numerous benefits to your organization. Here are some of the advantages of hiring a Java developer:

• Improved Efficiency: Java developers can help streamline your software development process, reducing the time and effort required to complete projects. Their expertise in Java frameworks and libraries allows for faster and more efficient coding.
• Enhanced Security: Java developers can ensure that your software applications are secure and protected against potential threats, reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks. Their knowledge of secure coding practices and security tools is invaluable.
• Increased Productivity: With a skilled Java developer on board, you can focus on other aspects of your business, knowing that your software development needs are being taken care of. This allows your team to work more effectively and efficiently.
• Better Scalability: Java developers can help you build scalable software applications that can grow with your business, reducing the need for costly rewrites or redesigns. Their experience with scalable architectures ensures your applications can handle increased loads.
• Improved Customer Experience: By building high-quality software applications, Java developers can help you deliver a better customer experience, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Well-designed applications are more user-friendly and reliable.

What to Look for When Hiring a Java Developer

When hiring a Java programmer, there are a few things you have to consider including experience, rates, and the type of work arrangement. It also depends on the type of project you have and what skills you need to complete it.

The challenges and complexities of hiring Java developers, such as geographical restrictions and the competitive job market, can make the recruitment process difficult.

Java Required Skills

Here are some of the basic skills that a Java Developer is expected to have:

• Standard Java library functions
• Java keywords such as static, final, this, and super
• Common data structures such as linked lists, arrays, and trees
• Exceptions and error handling

It is crucial to assess a candidate's technical knowledge during the hiring process, focusing on their proficiency in Java and related technologies, as well as their ability to solve problems effectively.

Java Experience

Java developers should have some experience with the following:

• Threading and synchronization
• Object-oriented programming (OOP)
• REST APIs
• Constructors and abstract classes
• Generics
• Java unit testing libraries
• Mobile (Android and iOS) technologies
• Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and memory management
• Testing and debugging Java programs
• Relational databases with SQL
• Enterprise, commercial, and open-source projects

There is a growing demand for skilled Java developers, and companies often face challenges in recruiting top talent.

DevOps Skills to Consider When Hiring a Java Developer

When hiring a Java developer, it’s essential to consider their DevOps skills. These skills ensure that your software development and deployment processes are efficient and reliable. Here are some key DevOps skills to look for:

• Continuous Integration and Deployment: The ability to automate the build, test, and deployment process, ensuring that software applications are delivered quickly and reliably. This reduces the time to market and improves software quality.
• Containerization: The ability to use containerization tools like Docker to package software applications and their dependencies, making it easier to deploy and manage them. This ensures consistency across different environments.
• Orchestration: The ability to use orchestration tools like Kubernetes to manage and automate the deployment, scaling, and management of software applications. This helps in maintaining high availability and scalability.
• Monitoring and Logging: The ability to use monitoring and logging tools to track the performance and health of software applications, identifying potential issues before they become critical. This proactive approach helps in maintaining system reliability.
• Automation: The ability to automate repetitive tasks and processes, freeing up time for more strategic and creative work. Automation improves efficiency and reduces the likelihood of human error.

How to Write a Java Developer Job Description

Writing the perfect Java job description is essential to ensure that you can attract the top developers. It’s also important to ensure that you set the proper expectations up-front to streamline the vetting process, saving everyone time and money. A compelling job description is crucial to attract top Java developers, making it easier to find highly qualified candidates suited for your needs.

Java Interview questions

When looking to hire a Java developer, consider asking some of the following interview questions:

• What is the purpose of public static void main in Java?
• How can you reverse an ArrayList?
• What is the difference between a public and a protected method?
• How can you deal with exceptions in Java?
• What is the difference between an exception and an error?
• When should you catch a RuntimeException?
• How do variable and method scoping work?
• When would you choose an abstract class instead of an interface?
• What are the different data types in Java?
• How can you remove whitespace in a string?
• What methods exist to sort an array in Java?
• Can you describe your experience with creating and consuming RESTful and SOAP web services? How proficient are you with tools like Swagger and Postman for API testing?

Freelance Java Developer Rates

The average salary for a Java developer is $103,319 per year in the United States. When hiring a Java freelancer, you can expect to pay $53.77 on average per hour. Java freelancer rates can range from $20-$100 per hour depending on the developer’s experience, where they are located, their availability, and other programming languages required.

Given the ongoing demand to hire Java developers, it is crucial to find the right candidates with specific skill sets tailored to your project's needs and market trends.

Check out our detailed pricing guide for more freelance developer rates.

Where to Hire a Java Developer – Top Websites

Where to find Java developers will ultimately depend on a few factors. Consider product duration, developer experience, cost, and how much time you’re willing to put into the hiring process. Businesses can hire Java developers for various scenarios, such as mobile applications and enterprise-level solutions, making effective recruitment strategies crucial.

Here are our top 2 favorite places to find Java developers.

Upstack

Best for the top programming talent

Upstack aims to elevate remote tech teams worldwide through dedicated freelance talent. They look for the best freelance talent by sourcing their developers from all over the world.

They deploy an 8 point hiring process to ensure their site users have access to the best candidates with top-notch developing skills, communication, and personalities. They offer talent in a diverse set of fields including Java, Python, iOS, and PHP.

They’ve worked for big-name brands like Microsoft and Lego. However, Upstack has a diverse talent pool that’s highly scalable depending on the size and scope of your business. Upstack can help find full-time senior Java developers with extensive expertise and experience.

Read our Upstack Review.

Fiverr

Best for small projects and gigs

As one of the largest freelancing job boards on the web, Fiverr is a proven platform for connecting with prospective freelancers. The site aims to streamline the process of connecting developers with clients in a way that’s efficient for both sides.

You can contact a developer by selecting their profile if you think you’ve found a good fit. Once the terms for a project has been finalized, clients pay the developer upfront. You have about three days to read over the finished product and decide whether to accept a project submission or reject it to get a refund.

Clients look through the site’s list of freelance developers by using its robust filter tools to find the right fit. You can filter developers based on their price range, body of work, and much more.

Fiverr is great for finding developers with a specific niche, as the site has categories for practically any type of development service. For example, if you click on the mobile application development link, it’ll let you sift through candidates based on even more specific guidelines, such as custom app development or web-to-app conversions. Fiverr is also a great platform for finding Java programmers with specific skills and experience tailored to project requirements.

Read Our Review on Fiverr

If you still want more ideas, here’s a full list of the best freelance websites for developers.

Streamlining the Hiring Process

Streamlining the hiring process can help you find and hire the best Java developers more efficiently. Here are some tips to help you streamline your hiring process:

• Define Your Requirements: Clearly define the skills, experience, and qualifications you’re looking for in a Java developer. This makes it easier to identify the right candidates and ensures that you attract applicants who meet your needs.
• Use Online Platforms: Use online platforms like job boards, social media, and professional networks to reach a wider audience and attract more candidates. These platforms can help you find both full-time and freelance Java developers.
• Conduct Technical Interviews: Conduct technical interviews to assess the technical skills and knowledge of candidates. This ensures that you’re hiring someone with the right expertise and can help you gauge their problem-solving abilities.
• Check References: Check references to verify the experience and qualifications of candidates. This reduces the risk of hiring someone who isn’t a good fit and provides insights into their past performance.
• Use Assessment Tools: Use assessment tools like coding challenges and skills tests to evaluate the technical skills of candidates. These tools can help you identify the best fit for your organization by providing objective measures of their abilities.

Best Practices for Working with Freelance Java Developers

Working with freelance Java developers can be a great way to access specialized skills and expertise on a project-by-project basis. Here are some best practices for working with freelance Java developers:

• Clearly Define Your Project Requirements: Clearly define your project requirements, including the scope, timeline, and budget. This makes it easier for freelance Java developers to understand what you need and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
• Establish Clear Communication Channels: Establish clear communication channels, including regular meetings and updates. This ensures that you’re on the same page as your freelance Java developer and helps prevent misunderstandings.
• Set Clear Expectations: Set clear expectations, including deadlines, milestones, and deliverables. This ensures that your freelance Java developer knows what’s expected of them and helps keep the project on track.
• Provide Necessary Resources: Provide necessary resources, including software, hardware, and documentation. This ensures that your freelance Java developer has everything they need to complete your project efficiently.
• Monitor Progress: Monitor progress, including tracking milestones and deliverables. This ensures that your project is on track and that your freelance Java developer is meeting your expectations. Regular check-ins can help address any issues early on.

By following these best practices, you can ensure a successful collaboration with freelance Java developers, leading to high-quality software development outcomes.

Developer Hiring Guides

If you are looking for other types of technical talent, we’ve put together hiring guides for these technologies as well.

Top Programming Languages

• JavaScript
• Python
• C / C++
• Java
• R Language
• Kotlin
• C#
• PHP
• Ruby

Top Frontend Frameworks

• React
• Angular
• Vue.js
• jQuery
• Ember.js
• Backbone.js
• Semantic-UI
• Foundation
• D3.js

Top Backend Frameworks

• Express
• Django
• Ruby on Rails
• Laravel
• CakePHP
• ASP.NET
• Spring Boot
• Flask
• Phoenix

Content Management Systems

• WordPress
• Joomla
• Drupal

Ecommerce

• WooCommerce
• Shopify
• Magento

Miscellaneous

• Unity
• Salesforce
• iOS / Android

FAQs

Where can I find a Java developer?

There are many places where you can find and hire a Java developer online. If you’re looking for a full-time developer, you can try popular job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn. For the best freelancers, consider using a remote hiring platform focused on placing programmers like Upstack or Toptal. You can also find Java developers on general freelancing marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr. When hiring, it's important to ensure candidates are familiar with web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build scalable and dynamic web applications.

How much does it cost to hire a Java developer?

The average salary for a Java developer is $103,319 per year in the United States. When hiring a Java freelancer, you can expect to pay $53.77 on average per hour. Java freelancer rates can range from $20-$100 per hour depending on the developer's experience, where they are located, their availability, and other programming languages required.

What are the most important skills to look for in a Java developer?

There are many skills that a Java developer needs to know. They should be familiar with object-oriented programming, which includes creating classes and inheritance. They should also know how to store and use data within desktop programs, and how to create a user interface in Java.

What does a Java developer do?

To put it as simply as possible, a Java developer designs and develops software using the Java language. They will primarily create desktop applications for businesses, but will also need to optimize, refactor, test, and clean Java code.