Hire Java Developers: Tips And Best Practices To Find Your Fit

Java is a widely-used programming language in the world, used for more than 3 billion devices across multiple platforms including Windows, Mac OS, Android, UNIX (according to Oracle). With the growing number of applications globally, the demand for Java Developers is also increasing.

However, hiring Java developers who align well with your business is not easy. Follow this article to discover useful tips for recruiting Java Developers!

Table of Contents

• What Is A Java Developer?
• How Much Does It Cost When Hiring Java Developers?
• Skills to Consider When Hiring Java Developers?
• How To Hire Java Developers: 7 Steps to Follow
  • Step 1: Build An Evaluation Form
  • Step 2: Create A Detailed and Captivating Job Description
  • Step 3: Source Talent From Diverse Channels
  • Step 4: Screen CV
  • Step 5: Interview candidates
    • Round 1: Phone interview
    • Round 2: In-person interview
  • Step 6: Require Coding Test
  • Step 7: Choose the Best Applicant and Make An Offer
• Conclusion

What Is A Java Developer?

Java developers are experts who specialize in creating applications using the Java programming language. They develop and maintain software solutions ranging from web applications to mobile apps and enterprise systems. Java developers have strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of Java’s syntax, libraries, and frameworks.

The main duties of Java developers may include:

• Write code to build an application using Java programming language.
• Implement, and test software applications.
• Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and fix bugs.
• Integrate Java applications with databases and external systems.
• Keep up-to-date with Java technologies and best practices.
• Assist stakeholders in solving technical issues.
• Review code and contribute to team discussions.

Learn more: 20+ Classic Java Books for Fresher & Experienced Developers

How Much Does It Cost When Hiring Java Developers?

Java developer hiring costs can vary due to many factors, including experience, location, responsibilities, project complexity.

On Upwork, the hourly rate charged by Java developers are:

• Beginner: $25 per hour
• Intermediate: $49 per hour
• Advanced: $160 per hour

Here is the costs involved in hiring a Java developer on a permanent basis according to our research:

Experience level	Salary range per year
Junior	$26,000
Mid-level	$38,000 – $45,000
Senior	$48,000 – $64,000

Skills to Consider When Hiring Java Developers?

Hiring Java developers requires individuals with various skills and qualities to create Java-based applications. Here are some essential skills to consider while hiring Java developers:

• Java proficiency: You need to look for developers who have a deep understanding of Java fundamentals, including object-oriented programming, data structures and algorithms. Beside that, Java developers should possess familiarity with popular Java frameworks and libraries like Spring, Hibernate, Struts, or JavaServer Faces (JSF). More than that, they need to know about common security vulnerabilities and best practices for securing Java applications.
• Database management: Ability to work with databases using JDBC (Java Database Connectivity), JPA (Java Persistence API) is a must for any Java developer. Knowledge of other ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) frameworks isa plus.
• Web development skills: Another factor to consider while hiring Java developers is their understanding of web development concepts such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript and familiarity with web application servers like Apache Tomcat or Jetty.
• Version control: Proficiency with version control systems like Git, SVN is essential for collaborative development.
• Unit testing: Java developers need to have experience in unit testing frameworks like JUnit or TestNG to ensure code quality and maintainability.
• Build automation: Look for developers who have familiarity with build tools like Maven or Gradle for dependency management and project building.
• Understanding of design patterns: Java experts need to be familiar with commonly used design patterns such as MVC (Model-View-Controller), Singleton, Factory, Observer, etc., to write efficient and maintainable code.
• Troubleshooting and debugging: Ability to troubleshoot and debug issues effectively, using debugging tools and techniques is also an important skill to know when looking for a Java developer.
• Soft skills: Effective communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management and the ability to adapt to changing requirements are all important soft skills for Java developers.
• Continuous learning: Given the evolving nature of technology, a willingness to learn new technologies, frameworks and best practices is crucial for staying relevant in the field.

How To Hire Java Developers: 7 Steps to Follow

Here is a step-by-step tutorial to help you hire Java developers who align well with your team.

Step 1: Build An Evaluation Form

Before diving into hiring Java developers, you need to define what you need about an ideal candidate. You can do it by building an evaluation form which can help you objectively evaluate candidates throughout the process.

Here’s what to include in your evaluation form:

• Technical skills: Include Java fundamentals (ORP, data structures, algorithms), JDBC, frameworks, libraries, Java development skills, knowledge of Java-based applications and understanding of version control systems.
• Experience: Define the level of experience you’re looking for (junior, mid-level, or senior). Remember to provide clear criteria or expectations for each level. If relevant, consider specific project types (mobile, PC).
• Soft skills: Detail criteria for soft skills like communication, teamwork, planning, problem-solving and time management.
• Samples: Provide guidance on what types samples should include in a resume such as projects carried out, the role the candidate played in each project, experiences and skills learned, any notable achievements, etc.

Pro tip: It is important to detail the proportions for each category in the form. This reflects the relative importance of each skill or quality. To make it easier, you should clearly determine how much technology skills account for and how much soft skills account for the total. For senior level candidates, technical skills may be more valued, while the ability to absorb and work according to a plan may be more crucial for beginner and mid-level applicants.

Step 2: Create A Detailed and Captivating Job Description

To attract candidates and hire top-tier Java engineers, you are required to have a compelling job description. Here are some practical tips you should implement:

• Mention the project/genre: If it’s for a specific project or genre, mention it to attract passionate candidates with relevant experience and passion.
• Highlight growth opportunities: Emphasize opportunities for professional development and learning in your team and company.
• Provide a clear application process: Provide clear instructions on how candidates can apply and what they should include in their applications, such as portfolios or samples.
• Mention perks: Do your team offer flexible hours, remote working policy, or any notable opportunities? Showcase these perks to attract the best talent.
• Keep it concise and clear: Avoid lengthy descriptions. Use bullet points, clear headings and minimize jargon.

Step 3: Source Talent From Diverse Channels

To attract diverse candidates, it’s important to source talent from various channels. Here are some places you can find high-qualified Java developer:

• Online job boards such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor or Toptal, Upwork to hire full-time Java developers and Toptal, Upwork, Freelancer, to find the candidate for short-time projects.
• Professional Java developer associations like Java User Groups (JUGs) and Java Community Process (JCP).
• University career centers (Consider cooperating with these organizations from universities to access a pool of excellent Java developers at the entry-level).
• Networking events, professional conferences and workshops
• Employee referrals (This source can bring high-quality candidates who are well-suited to company culture)

Step 4: Screen CV

Once applications start coming in, it’s time for the screening process. Here’s how to filter resumes effectively when hiring Java engineers:

• Keyword matching: Use keywords from your evaluation form and job description to select candidates that match the skills and experience.
• Project experience: Assess past projects to ensure the developer has expertise with Java programming language.

• Quantifiable results: Look for measurable achievements from a candidate’s past work.
• Clear communication: Evaluate how effectively the developer showcases their skills and experience on their resume.

Step 5: Interview candidates

Round 1: Phone interview

Once you’ve selected a few candidates, conduct a short phone interview (around 15-30 minutes) to assess their basic skills and communication style. Follow this guide:

• Introduce yourself and provide an overview of the company.
• Inquire about their education, background and professional experience.
• Ask basic technical questions to assess their grasp of key concepts and technologies.
• Briefly talk about project expectations, timelines, and work style.
• Ask about their motivation for applying to your company and the reasons for their departure from their previous company.
• Discuss the salary and benefits expectations.

Round 2: In-person interview

You can evaluate not just technical skills but also soft skills and problem-solving abilities in this interview. People who should be present at this interview include the technical lead/senior developer, project manager, and talent acquisition.

Here’s the structure of an in-depth interview when hiring Java developers:

• Technical deep dive: Come up with a more complex technical challenge related to your project and observe how the candidate approaches and solves this problem. 
• Behavioral questions: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to ask questions about their hurdle in a project to assess their soft skills. If applicable, discuss their past projects in detail.
• Company culture fit: Discuss with the candidate their work style, team dynamics, and expectations. This allows both you and the candidate to evaluate if there’s a good fit.

Step 6: Require Coding Test

A Java developer is a role that demands a high level of technical knowledge and experience. To find the best candidate, you should incorporate a live coding test into the interview process. You can evaluate their problem-solving skills, coding skill and communication by observing their coding style, Java’s syntax usage and explanation of the working process.

Step 7: Choose the Best Applicant and Make An Offer

After a careful selection process, you will probably have a few potential names. Here’s how to complete Java developers hiring process:

• Reference checks: Contact the colleagues mentioned in the CV to verify the candidate’s skills and work behavior.
• Negotiate the contract: Discuss the compensation package, project timeline, and expectations clearly.
• Make an official offer: Present a written offer including the key terms of employment and agreed upon information.

Related Articles: Hire The Best Offshore Java Developer: A Comprehensive Guide

Conclusion

Hiring Java developers can be challenging, but with thorough planning and execution, you can assemble a capable team to complete your project. The tips mentioned above can help you navigate the hiring process more effectively.

If you still have concerns and need support, do not hesitate to contact Mageplaza for answers as soon as possible!