Without a doubt, Java is one of the most popular programming languages. It is almost used in every possible application. In simpler words, it helps to build an application and share it across platforms. Consequently, making it the closest thing to Lingua Franca in the IT industry.
However, even with its popularity, it can be rather difficult to hire Java developers who can suit your needs and have the right knowledge and skill set, especially when there are so many options available.
IMAGE: PEXELS
What Is Java?
Before you dive into the specifics of hiring a full-time or freelance Java developer, let’s start with the basics. Java is a high-level programming language that is object-oriented, robust, easy to use, has cross-platform capabilities and security features.
In the world of programming languages, it is one of the oldest. It was developed by Sun Microsystems in 1995 and was based on the syntax of C and C++. Although, today it is a part of Oracle. Its benefits include:
- Speed – Due to Java’s efficient processing speed, it is used in various software applications, games, and mobile applications.
- Statically typed language – Since Java is a statically typed language, it brings a much greater extent of safety and stability to its application as compared to other programming languages.
- No lack of talent – When you hire Java developers who are new. They usually start with learning Java because of its easy-to-use characteristics.
- Platform independence – This is one of the most significant advantages of Java. It allows you to run one program on many different systems.
The Java Developer Checklist
Java changes almost every year. There is always a new build and framework release. This is the reason why when you hire dedicated Java developers, you should ensure that they have hands-on experience in the latest libraries and frameworks.
Skills To Test When Hiring Entry-Level Java Developers
When hiring fresh talent, you should make sure that the candidate has good Java proficiency. In order to do this, you should test them and understand if they have a strong knowledge of Java ecosystems. Skills that you should evaluate for entry-level Java developers:
- Knowledge of Java/JEE
- Object-oriented analysis and design Patterns
- XML, X-query, XSL
- Data structures and algorithms
- Java-based web services
- Relational databases, SQL and ORM
Skills To Test When Hiring Junior Java Developers
Here the experience falls into the range of 0 to 2 years. A junior Java developer should be good at writing readable and clean Java code. Skills that you should evaluate for junior Java software engineer:
- Knowledge of Java/JEE
- Object-oriented analysis and design Patterns
- Enterprise Java Beans (EJB)
- Data structures and algorithms
- Java-based web services
- Relational databases, SQL and ORM
- JVM and memory management
- Multithreading and synchronization
Skills To Test When Hiring Senior Java Developers
When hiring senior Java developers, you should look for a candidate with 3 to 6 years of experience in the field. They should have the skill to write optimized code that is clean and readable. Strong knowledge of object-oriented programming and J2EE is a must. They should also be excellent at error handling and debugging.
Furthermore, a senior role requires writing complex SQL queries. Therefore, hands-on experience in query handling is also a must. Additionally, they should be proficient in runtime and garbage collection, as memory-related problems are quite common. Skills that you should look for in senior Java developers:
- Knowledge of Java/JEE
- Object-oriented analysis and design Patterns
- Enterprise Java Beans (EJB)
- Data structures and algorithms
- Java-based web services
- Code optimization
- JVM and memory management
- Multithreading and synchronization
what Does A Java Developer Do?
The roles and responsibilities of Java developers can vary depending upon their experience and designation in the company. Although some typical responsibilities that you should look out for when you hire Java developers:
- Designing, implementing, and maintaining Java applications
- Assisting in all phases of the software development life cycle
- Writing readable, clean, efficient, and testable code
- Carrying out software analysis, coding, testing, and debugging
- Maintaining Java and Java EE application development
- Ensuring high-quality final product
- Supporting continuous updates and changes
Now, let’s take a look at a more detailed breakdown.
- Application objective – An outline of what is your expectation from the final product can be a tremendous help. During this process, a Java developer’s key function is to build the product architecture.
- Gather requirements – Before any developer gets started with the development process, it is necessary to gather requirements. They work closely with stakeholders or project managers in order to discuss things like prioritizing important tasks, determining the overall scope of work, and the right course of action.
- Development – This is one of the key phases, where the idea of the product starts to take a shape. Java developers begin the process of writing the code that results in a completed application.
- Testing – Once the development is complete, Java developers must test and debug it as well. The goal here is to ensure that the application is efficient and bug-free.
- Deployment – Developers should transfer the fully functional developed application to a live environment.
- Maintenance and optimization – When you hire Java developers, their work doesn’t end when the application is developed and deployed. It is also their responsibility to add new features, provide software updates and maintain the efficiency of the application.
How Much Does Java Cost?
To use Java for production, companies need to pay. Oracle has given this policy a name – Java SE subscription. Java SE licensing and support for use on desktops, servers or cloud deployments requires you to pay a certain amount. Desktop pricing is $2.50 per user per month or lower. Whereas, the price for servers and/or cloud deployments is $25.00 per month or lower.
Conclusion
Before you hire Java developers, an overall vision of what needs to be accomplished is necessary. Not only this gives an idea of what your expectation is from the final product but also helps you in the recruiting process. When you understand the skill set you need from a candidate, it becomes a lot easier to screen developers and find the right fit for your team.
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