App developers are in high demand today, as companies across industries increasingly invest in application development in order to offer better customer experiences. As an app developer, you will work collaboratively with other IT professionals to design, develop and launch applications for a variety of platforms, including Android, iOS and more. If you have the education and the skills to develop apps from scratch, this is a lucrative career option that will continue to evolve and offer exciting opportunities for growth.
Average salaries for app developers vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including where you’re located, the company you work for, the scope of your responsibilities and more. With that in mind, average salaries for app developers range from $89,000 to $116,000 annually.
However, depending on how the company structures your compensation package, you may also be eligible for performance bonuses as well as employee benefits.
The day-to-day work environment for app developers can be somewhat unique, as is the case with many other technology roles. While your working hours will likely be normal office hours, some companies offer flexible hours. Expect to work evenings, weekends and overtime when project deadlines approach.
Most app developers work in office environments but have the flexibility to work from home or remotely at least some of the time. In most cases, you will meet with and report to a project manager or software development manager. Expect to work collaboratively and in a team environment to see app development projects come to fruition.
Day-to-day tasks can include a variety of duties, including meeting with clients, working with the IT team to establish project parameters, writing code and more. Here are some of the tasks that you will be responsible for:
Additional tasks may be added to your workload based on the project or type of app you are working on.
App developers primarily work in the technology industry for software development companies. It’s also possible to find work within a large organization on a project or permanent basis. With companies in retail, marketing and manufacturing now using apps for a variety of purposes, more opportunities are opening up for candidates with app development skills. California, Texas and New York are the three states with the greatest demand for app developers at the moment.
App developers should have a broad range of computer and IT skills. Here are some of the main skills and abilities hiring companies are looking for in app developer candidates:
Application developers are usually required to have an undergraduate degree in computer science, engineering or a related field. Increasingly, too, master’s degrees are becoming commonplace in the industry.
Additionally, having application developer certification, as well as certification with other programming languages, may be an asset. Having a track record of success and strong examples of application coding can also set you apart from other candidates.
Application developers have a tendency to stay in the same or similar role for a number of years. With the right level of experience, more senior roles tend to open up. Some app developers move on to roles such as software development manager, software architecture, IT project manager, lead software engineer or other software development-related roles. Some app developers choose to work on a contract, consulting or freelance basis as well. Job prospects in this area look good for the foreseeable future.
Are you an app developer who is looking to take the next step in your career? Randstad can connect you with companies that are hiring in your area. Contact us to expand your job search.
Is your company in need of an experienced app developer? Work with us to recruit top talent and find the right person for the role you are trying to fill.