How to Become a Java Developer

A Java developer creates codes for different types of technology using the Java programming language. Java developers are responsible for writing codes for products, troubleshooting and researching for future Java products.

The coding language Java is all around us. Many Android apps are made using Java, including popular music app Spotify, and Twitter, the social media app. Desktop apps also use Java, as do various webpages; many need Java to be installed on the user’s computer to run properly. Other uses of Java are credit card programming, gaming software, and big data technology.

Java is popular for many reasons. It is an object-orientated language which is much more secure than other scripts, it is able to run on different servers, and it is robust – it doesn’t allude to any data outside of the application, which means it is less likely to crash. It has some similarities to C and C++, but is regarded as simpler to use and many developers consider it to be more secure and reliable.

As it is such an important language across the board, Java developers are very in demand. Professionals in this career develop an expertise in and use the language to create different products.

A Java developer will undertake tasks such as:

• Speaking to clients and employers about their needs and working out a strategic plan about how Java can be implemented to create a solution that meets these needs.
• Taking the mapped out solution and translating it into Java code that technology will understand.
• Testing technologies to troubleshoot and check that there aren’t any bugs that have fallen through the net.
• Staying updated on developments in the field.

The path to becoming a Java developer generally starts with a computing, maths, statistics, or similar degree. Candidates will need to show an interest in programming throughout – and after – their tertiary education. They may do this by joining relevant clubs and societies throughout university and attending expos in the area.

Getting a full education in Java is mandatory – luckily, with plenty of online courses, it can be more or less self-taught. Candidates will need to progressively learn about all aspects of the Java programme. Firstly, they should have a solid understanding of HTML and CSS, and then delve into Java-specific knowledge.

Classes, interfaces, loops, generics, abstract classes, and collections are all great starting points, but learning about other topics including the Spring Framework and the basics of Linux commands is vital for even junior applicants.

Candidates can expand their employability by developing a strong portfolio of work – creating individual projects with Java – and taking plenty of supplementary courses. They should aim to have a thorough understanding of the language before applying for any jobs, as even for entry-level positions, as much knowledge as possible will give them a huge advantage.

Most Java developer jobs will be in tech firms. Java developer interview questions will both test the candidate on their knowledge of the script – some interview processes may even include a computer-based coding test – and ask them about their attributes to assess their suitability for the job. Many roles are in tech firms, and some candidates start with other kinds of languages and software developments before niching into Java.

Because being a Java developer is such an in demand role, the salary is generous, and can increase the further a candidate progresses up the career ladder. Java developers will often need to finish bulks of work at once, meaning that their working hours can be outside the traditional 9-5.